The practice of using dogs to pull sleds dates back to at least 6000 BC. Remnants of dog sleds and harnesses has been found with dog remains in Siberia which carbon-dated to 7800-8000 years ago.

Is mushing cruel?

Horror stories of animal cruelty can be found in dog sledding operations around the world. In some areas, dogs are chained when not running. They can sometimes be abused by those who run them, and even killed when no longer 'paying their way', as in this tragic case.

How long have sled dogs been used?

Sled dogs have been used in the Arctic for at least 8,000 years and, along with watercraft, were the only transportation in Arctic areas until the introduction of semi-trailer trucks, snowmobiles and airplanes in the 20th century, hauling supplies in areas that were inaccessible by other methods.