Dew Claw Kennel

Dan Kaduce and Jodi Bailey owners                         Chatanika Alaska

Dew Claw Kennel has the unique honor of accessing the BLM White Mountains Recreation Area by special permit for guided dog mushing tours. The White Mountains are an amazingly beautiful multi-use wilderness area. We are deeply committed to preserving this wilderness area not just for our own ventures, but for all users. In addition we recognize the important role our sled dogs play in our guests having a positive experience. As such we are committed to their care and well being. Guides Dan and Jodi have lived and trained dogs here for decades, and have a wealth of experience to share with guests. The following tenants represent the efforts made to assure we are operating in a way that is ethical and sustainable.

• We offer small group tours, allowing us to provide a special experience to our guests. Small tours has many advantages:
  • Less traffic in the wilderness area.
  • The ability to meet guests’ personal expectations.
  • We can accomplish our goals with a smaller pool of canine athletes.
• We operate on established trail systems so as not to disturb the surrounding area.
  • The White Mountains trail system is multi-use, and we are in contact with other trail users to share information and report hazards.
  • Our trips are submitted to BLM personnel for approval to ensure we are not operating is sensitive areas.
  • We coordinate with BLM to make sure our commercial operations are not interfering with the publics ability to use the trails and enjoy the area.
• We have a private campsite on our property so we have a much smaller impact on public and BLM public lands.
  • Using a private camp on our own property significantly reduces our footprint on public lands. And allows us to have a better plan for waste management.
  • This also allows us to be sure our guests will not be bothered by others recreating in the area. While at the same time leaving camping spots and cabins in the White Mountains available for public use.
  • It also makes it easier for us to maintain and provides a layer of safety since we can easily access our kennel in case of emergency.
• Dog care year round is our priority. What we do would not be possible without our amazing canine athletes, and their health and well-being is important to us.
  • This includes providing optimal nutrition and exercise to ensure dogs are in good health and capable of doing what we ask of them.
  • We maintain a small kennel, pet overpopulation is a serious issue, so we have a carefully curated breeding program. We do not breed dogs for sale. In addition we have a lifetime commitment to our dogs. Guest can meet the older dogs living out their life at Dew Claw.
  • Dogs are socialized to be comfortable in a wide variety of situations and with new people.
  • Dogs are vaccinated and wormed for their health and to prevent the spread of diseases and parasites.
  • Guests are encouraged to interact with the dogs and learn more about their personalities.
  • Dew Claw Kennel works closely with veterinarian to make sure dogs are in good health, and that we are following best practices for sled dog care.

What does all this mean for our guests.