(WEEK) - People from around Central Illinois gathered at the Starved Rock Visitor Center Sunday to witness a sight not seen everyday, sled dogs in action.
“These dogs run by choice," said Musher and Team Leader for Free Spirit Sled Demo Team, Jason Hussong. "We train them, but these are dogs that just absolutely love to do it. I mean you can see when we start hitching up some of them will start barking and howling and it's like, hey look at that we get to go.”
Some of the events attendees traveled more than an hour to witness the sled dogs show off their mushing skills.
“It’s just so interesting to get exposure because near the city we don’t have anything like this," said attendee, Michelle Murphy.
“I did not even know that this existed," said attendee, Sean Murphy. "It’s cool that they can do it with snow and without snow with the trikes that they have set up. I'm really impressed with the way the dogs were performing and that this is a thing.”
Hussong said he was hooked as soon as he started mushing, going from owning one husky to six. He said he loves to share his passion and knowledge on the dogs and the sport, while also raising money to help Free Spirit Siberian Rescue.
“I've had huskies for over 20 years," said Hussong. "I've been mushing for almost 15 years and with following races like the Iditarod and then getting involved with free spirit, it’s just a lot of fun. It’s different from snow mobiling, it’s quieter and it’s peaceful. You get kisses at the end of it rather than exhaust.”
When it comes to sled dogs, Hussong said what separates a lead dog from other members of the pack is the pup's passion.
“A dog that wants to get out there and has as great a passion as you do to want to run," said Hussong. "One willing to take commands and is not afraid to override you if you give a bad command."
"Demo" - Google News
March 01, 2021 at 06:57AM
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Despite no snow, sled dog demo team shows off mushing skills - week.com
"Demo" - Google News
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