# data[].attributes.body
This is an article that tells you about the hero dog Balto. Balto was in the serum run to Nome that crossed the Iditarod. Balto became known around the world after heroically pulling sleds in this life or death situation. Balto pushed himself and after he died, was honored at Cleveland’s Natural History Museum. He also was honored by having a movie made all about him and what he did. The serum run that he ran in, was the creation of the Iditarod race.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In 1925, a life-or-death race to rescue the children of Nome, AK, from disease made an international hero of one sled dog - and eventually led to the creation of Alaska's Iditarod sled dog race, the subject of NATURE's SLED DOGS: AN ALASKAN EPI C.

In January 1925, doctors realized that a potentially deadly diphtheria epidemic was poised to sweep through Nome's young people. The only serum that could stop the outbreak was in Anchorage, nearly a thousand miles away. But the lone aircraft that could quickly deliver the medicine had been dismantled for the winter. In desperation, officials turned to a much lower-tech solution: moving the medicine by sled dog.

Soon, a musher embarked from Anchorage on the first leg of a remarkable dog-sled relay aimed at delivering the needed serum to Nome. More than 20 mushers took part, battling temperatures that rarely rose above 40 degrees below zero Fahrenheit and winds that sometimes blew strong enough to knock over sleds and dogs. Reporters brought news of the race to a world suddenly transfixed by the drama in the far north.

Incredibly, just six days later, on February 2, 1925, Gunner Kaassen drove his heroic dog team into the streets of Nome. In the lead of his team was a husky named Balto, whose furry face soon became known around the world. A year later, in honor of the epic trek, admirers erected a statue of Balto in New York City's Central Park.

Balto was suddenly a world-famous celebrity; for two years after the serum run, the dog and some of his teammates traversed the continental United States as part of a traveling show. After Balto died in 1933, his body was preserved and displayed at Cleveland's Natural History Museum. In 1995, a popular animated movie about Balto was released, adding to his fame.

Long after his death, Balto's popularity lives on. Today, some Alaskan schoolchildren are campaigning to bring Balto back to his home state. The students want his body moved to the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race museum in Wasilla. But Cleveland officials aren't ready to give Balto back, noting he spent more than half his life in their city. There are plans in the works, however, for Balto to return to Alaska as part of a temporary exhibit at the Anchorage Museum of History and Art - a testament to the strength of Balto's memory and a fitting memorial to his indomitable spirit.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sled Dogs: An Alaskan Epic | Balto | Nature | PBS

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In 1925, a life-or-death race to rescue the children of Nome, AK, from disease made an international hero of one sled dog - and eventually led to the creation of Alaska's Iditarod sled dog race, the subject of NATURE's SLED DOGS: AN ALASKAN EPIC. In 1925, sled dogs helped stem a diphtheria outbreak.

# data[].attributes.body
This is an article that speaks about the serum run. It tells about what the purpose of the serum run was. It also tells you when and where it took place. The article speaks about the dogs that were used in the serum run and where they headed. It also tells about diphtheria, telling what it was and what it did.

# data[].attributes.body
This is a map of Alaska that shows where the serum run was. This shows where Nome is, where Iditarod is, and where Seward is. It also shows the starting point of the serum run. It names all of the locations that are passed during the run and bodies of water. It was almost through half of the state of Alaska.

# data[].attributes.body
This article explains something that is truly amazing. Sled dogs change their metabolism during long races like the Iditarod. This is something that humans are so far, unable to do. Scientist are trying to figure how the dogs achieve this amazing feat. Their goal is to figure out this process in dogs so that humans will be able to do the same thing in the near future.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Dr. Davis, who is teaming with researchers at Texas A&M in a $300,000 Darpa grant, awarded last fall, has been traveling to Alaska for years to learn why the sled dogs are "fatigue-proof."

"They have a hidden strategy that they can turn on," he said. "We are confident that humans have the capacity for that strategy. We have to figure out how dogs are turning it on to turn it on in humans."

Researchers have not demonstrated that ability in other species, but Dr. Davis said migratory mammals or birds could have it. Nor is it similar to the mammalian diving reflex that lets aquatic mammals like seals, otters and dolphins stay under water for long periods of time by slowing metabolic rates.

"The level of metabolism is staying the same," Dr. Davis said. "It's not slowing down their calorie burn rate."

In fact, sled dogs in long-distance racing typically burn 240 calories a pound per day for one to two weeks nonstop. The average Tour de France cyclist burns 100 calories a pound of weight daily, researchers say.

How the dogs maintain such a high level of caloric burn for an extended period without tapping into their reserves of fat and glycogen (and thus grinding to a halt like the rest of us) is what makes them "magical," Davis says.

If Dr. Davis and the Texas A&M researchers identify the biomarker, or "switch," that could help the military understand and develop ways to control and prevent the physiological effects of fatigue in strenuous cases like combat.

"Soldiers' duties often require extreme exertion, which causes them to become fatigued," Jan Walker of Darpa wrote in an e-mail message. "Severe fatigue can result in a compromised immune system, making soldiers more susceptible to illness or injury."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Researchers Seek to Demystify the Metabolic Magic of Sled Dogs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Dr. Davis, who is teaming with researchers at Texas A&M in a $300,000 Darpa grant, awarded last fall, has been traveling to Alaska for years to learn why the sled dogs are "fatigue-proof." "They have a hidden strategy that they can turn on," he said.

# data[].attributes.body
This is an image that simply explains the treatment for Diphtheria when it is diagnosed.

# data[].attributes.headline
EC - Image showing Diphtheria in the throat

# data[].attributes.subject
EC - Image showing Diphtheria in the throat

# data[].attributes.body
This is an image that shows what happens when you have Diphtheria in the throat. If the infection in the throat gets too inflammed, it can suffocate the person. The throat is not the only place Diphtheria targets, but it is one of the main targets.

# data[].attributes.body
This video explains the difference between the Iditarod trail and the race itself. It also talks about some facts from the past races. It talks about the race and tells about how it alone is not the same as the trail. On the other hand, it also talks about how the trail is different from the race. The man directly explains what happened in the race on the trail as well.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Did you know that there is a big difference between the Iditarod Race and the Iditarod Trail? Find out what the difference are in our latest Bits of History: Iditarod's Frequently Asked Questions session.

# data[].attributes.body
This is a picture of Dick Wilmarth, the man who won the first Iditarod race. He is the man holding the dog in the middle of the crowd. This was after he won the race. In this picture people are asking him about the race as he holds his dog. The dog he is holding is the lead dog.

# data[].attributes.body
This is a picture of the first Iditarod. These are some sled dogs that were involved in the event. The dogs' positions can be seen in this picture. The lead dog seems to look stronger than the rest of them. What also can be seen is the person who is driving the sled.

# data[].attributes.body
This video briefly sums up the Iditarod. It mentions some of the first race winners. It also mentions the best times, and course alterations due to lack of snow. From Anchorage to Nome, this video tells the need-to-know information about the Great Race.

# data[].attributes.body
This website shows all the Iditarod winners. It goes from the start of the race in 1973 to the races of 2004. It shows Musher records along with Red Lantern (last place) records. It shows those who have mutiple victories. Those who succeeded on "The Last Great Race on Earth" are easily found on this website.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Past winners of the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race, Anchorage to Nome

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Alaska American Local History Network - Iditarod, Anchorage to Nome.

# data[].attributes.body
The Iditarod is a race that most of the world knows about. But do they know how much food the sled dogs need? What to pack? What the average time of the Iditarod is? The best time? Do they know who or what's its namesake? This artical of 11 facts about the Iditarod answers many of the questions that have been thought of.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The mushers crossed the finish line early Tuesday in the Iditarod. The annual dog sled race from Anchorage to Nome began on March 2nd, and the winner, Dallas Seavey, crossed the finish line at 4:04 a.m. Alaska time. It was the second win for Seavey. For Aliy Zirkle, who crossed at a 4:06 a.m., it was the third time coming in second place. It was also a hard night for Jeff King, who had a one hour lead until he was blown off course by a blizzard and had to drop out. The Iditarod can be brutal and trying, but it is always exciting. Here are 11 amazing facts about "the last great race on Earth."
1. RACE TIMES HAVE GOTTEN TWICE AS FAST SINCE IT STARTED.
The first Iditarod took place in 1973, and took about 20 days to complete; currently, it takes about 10 days. The winner this year set a new record at eight days, 14 hours, 19 minutes. The last place time was 32 days in the beginning, and now it's about 13 days.
2. SLED DOGS NEED 10-12,000 CALORIES A DAY.
( Getty Images)

Each sled is pulled by a team of 16 dogs, and they need to keep on eating. On the trail they get frozen snacks like chunks of meat, fish, or soaked dog food. When they stop at checkpoints they get a warm meal, maybe a nice a slurry of beef, Arctic char, vitamin supplements, and kibble mixed with water and chicken fat - cooked in a bucket camp stove that doubles as the driver's seat on the sled.
3. THE DOGS WEAR BOOTIES.
It's cold out there on the trail, but that's not why the dogs have to keep their feet covered. Their fur and efficient circulatory systems keep them warm enough. But the ice, snow, and rocky terrain is hard on their foot pads so they have to be protected. Mushers usually make their dogs' booties themselves, and they are required by the rules of the race to have at least eight extra per dog on the sled.
4. THERE'S A JAMAICAN DOG SLED TEAM.
Inspired by the Olympic Jamaican bobsled team, a Caribbean tour operator started a Jamaican dog sled team to compete in various races. (It was sponsored by Jimmy Buffett.) In 2010, team member Newton Marshall became the first Jamaican to compete in the Iditarod. He now competes independently as Mushin' Mon. He recently made Iditarod news when he helped rescue another musher who had broken his ankle chasing a loose dog. That musher happened to be the subject of our next fact...
5. DOGS CAN BE SAVED WITH MOUTH TO SNOUT RESUSCITATION.
( Getty Images)

The musher Marshall saved, Scott Janssen, a funeral home proprietor known as the Mushing Mortician, made news in the 2012 Iditarod when he saved one of his dogs who had collapsed on trail by performing mouth to snout resuscitation on him. That husky's name? Marshall. Coincidence? Or mysterious karma of the trail?
6. IT'S A FAMILY AFFAIR.
There's quite a bit of friendly family rivalry in the Iditarod. This year's winner, Dallas Seavey, became the youngest Iditarod winner at 25 on his first win in 2012. In 2013, his father Mitch became the oldest winner at 53. Mitch's father, Dan, had finished third in the 1973 race. Other Iditarod families include Anna and Kristy Berington, twin sisters both competing for the third time this year, and the Mackeys - father Dick and sons Rick and Lance, who each won the race on their sixth attempt, each while wearing number 13.
7. THE FINISH LINE IS A GOOD PLACE TO BECOME A CITIZEN.
( Getty Images)

Martin Buser moved to Alaska from his native Switzerland in 1979. He ran his first Iditarod in 1980 and holds the record for finishing the race the most times at 29. He also held the previous record for fastest finish time with his 2002 win. Right after that win, he became a U.S. citizen in a naturalization ceremony held under the monument arch that marks the finish line.
8. SLED DOGS HAVE TO STUDY THEIR VOCABULARY.
Part of sled dog training involves teaching them a set of standard commands.
Hike! (Let's go! Get moving!)
Haw! (Turn left!)
Gee! (Turn right)
On by! (Pass another team! or Pay that distraction no mind!)
Easy! (Slow down!)
Whoa! (Stop!) 9. THE RACE IS NAMED FOR A GHOST TOWN.
( Wikimedia Commons)

Or at least for the name of the route than once carried mail, supplies, and gold prospectors to the town of Iditarod. The town was named for the Iditarod River and was once flush with action from an early 20th century gold rush. But after the gold ran out in the 1930s, everyone left. All that's left of it is a few abandoned shelters and a rusty old bank vault.
10. THE DISTANCE VARIES.
The race course is about 1000 miles, but it can vary depending on snow, ice, and other terrain conditions. Also, the race alternates between a northern course and a southern course every year. This way, more of the small towns in the middle of the state get to participate in the action and benefit from a bump in visitors.
11. THE LAST PLACE FINISHER GETS A SPECIAL PRIZE.
It's a race tradition to light a lantern at the finish line in Nome when the race begins and leave it lit as long as there are still mushers out there on the trail. It's a nod to the old custom of the "widow's lamp" which was a safety measure to keep track of when sled drivers were out on the trail and whether they had reached their destination or not. Some sled races started handing out lanterns to the last place finisher as a joke, but now the "red lantern" is an official prize to bear proudly. When it comes to the Iditarod - 1000 miles of snow, ice, frostbite, sleeplessness, danger, and mud - just finishing is no small achievement.

Follow the action at Iditarod.com.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The mushers crossed the finish line early Tuesday in the Iditarod. The annual dog sled race from Anchorage to Nome began on March 2nd, and the winner, Dallas Seavey, crossed the finish line at 4:04 a.m. Alaska time. It was the second win for Seavey.

# data[].attributes.headline
EC - Diphtheria Diagnosis and Treatments 

# data[].attributes.subject
EC - Diphtheria Diagnosis and Treatments 

# data[].attributes.body
This is a very helpful article that explains how Diphtheria is diagnosed. It also tells about the treatments for Diphtheria once it has been diagnosed. Diphtheria is a very contagious disease, so once a person is diagnosed they must stay in confinement for at least 48 hours or until the disease is no longer contagious.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Diphtheria can infect the respiratory tract (parts of the body involved in breathing) and skin. Diagnosis and treatment depend on the type of diphtheria someone has. If a doctor thinks you have respiratory diphtheria, they will have you start treatment right away.

Diagnosis

Doctors usually decide if a person has diphtheria by looking for common signs and symptoms. They can swab the back of the throat or nose and test it for the bacteria that cause diphtheria. A doctor can also take a sample from an open sore or ulcer and try and grow the bacteria. If the bacteria grow and make the diphtheria toxin, the doctor can be sure a patient has diphtheria. However, it takes time to grow the bacteria, so it is important to start treatment right away if a doctor suspects respiratory diphtheria.

Treatment

Diphtheria treatment involves:

Using diphtheria antitoxin to stop the bacteria toxin from damaging the body. This treatment is very important for respiratory diphtheria infections, but it is rarely used for diphtheria skin infections.

Using antibiotics to kill and get rid of the bacteria. This is important for diphtheria infections in the respiratory system and on the skin and other parts of the body (e.g., eyes, blood).

People with diphtheria are usually no longer able to infect others 48 hours after they begin taking antibiotics. However, it is important to finish taking the full course of antibiotics to make sure the bacteria are completely removed from the body. After the patient finishes the full treatment, the doctor will run tests to make sure the bacteria are not in the patient's body anymore.

Complications

Complications from respiratory diphtheria may include:

Airway blockage

Myocarditis (damage to the heart muscle)

Polyneuropathy (nerve damage)

Kidney failure

For some people, respiratory diphtheria can lead to death. Even with treatment, about 1 in 10 patients with respiratory diphtheria die. Without treatment, up to half of patients can die from the disease.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Diphtheria can infect the respiratory tract (parts of the body involved in breathing) and skin. Diagnosis and treatment depend on the type of diphtheria someone has. If a doctor thinks you have respiratory diphtheria, they will have you start treatment right away.

# data[].attributes.body
This picture shows importance of each sled dog. There are different positions that dogs have. The jobs of the dogs depends on the position they are in. The front position is reserved for lead dogs that follow the mushers commands and lead the team in the correct direction. Only the best dogs are put in the lead position.

# data[].attributes.body
This is a chart that shows approximately how many people have gotten Diptheria in 1980-2014. The number of cases has gone down drasically since 1980 due to the vaccination. The blue line shows how much coverage the vaccination gave during those years.

# data[].attributes.body
The winner of the first Iditarod was Dick Wilmarth. Dick won the race in 20 days, 49 minutes, and 41 seconds. The first race was in the year 1973, located in Nome. This race changed the world in a good way. It gave people more entertainment and a new event to keep in tune for every year.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
40 Years Ago... Who Won the First Iditarod? - Iditarod

# data[].attributes.body
This is a picture of the different vaccinations available for Diphtheria. There are three different kinds, and they are different for children and adults.

# data[].attributes.body
This is an article that describes the past Iditarod races. It talks about the growth of the race and how it has impacted the country. This articles speaks about who was involved in the Iditarod in the first race. Also included are some of the years that the Iditarod was taken place in, the earliest it was in was the year of 1973. The race was held in Nome.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The World was Changing...
Original document by Don Bowers, Edited 2012

Even after the advent of the airplane, dog teams continued to be widely used for local transportation and day-to-day work, particularly in Native villages. Mushers and their teams played important but little remembered roles in World War II in Alaska, particularly in helping the famous Eskimo Scouts patrol the vast winter wilderness of western Alaska.

After the war, short and medium distance freight teams were still common in many areas of Alaska even when President Kennedy announced that the United States would put a man on the moon. During the 1960's, however, it was not space travel but the advent of the "iron dog" (or snowmachine or snowmobile) that resulted in the mass abandonment of dog teams across the state and loss of much mushing lore.

In 1964, the Wasilla-Knik Centennial Committee was formed to look into historical events in Alaska, specifically the Mananuska-Susitna Valley, over the past century. 1967 marked the 100th anniversary of Alaska being a U.S. Territory after being purchased from Russia. Dorothy Page, chairman of this committee, conceived the idea of a sled dog race over the historically significant Iditarod Trail. Joe Redington Sr. was her first real support for such a race. Joe and his wife Vi had deep historical interests in the Iditarod Trail since the mid-1950's and felt this centennial race would help in their quest to preserve the historic gold rush and mail route and get it recognized nationally. The Redingtons and Pages joined forces. Dorothy poured her heart and soul into research as a historian and Joe Redington worked non-stop to put together a new sprint sled dog race.

With much volunteer labor (the start of a fundamental Iditarod tradition), the first part of the trail was cleared, including nine miles of the Iditarod Trail. The two heat, 56 mile Centennial race between Knik and Big Lake was held in 1967 and 1969. Then, interest in the race was lost. However, Joe Redington never lost interest, instead his vision grew into a never conceived of before long-distance race. Countless hours of discussions with fellow mushers followed. Two of these mushers were teachers, Tom Johnson and Gleo Hyuck. These three men spirited this first-ever, long-distance race into reality and in 1973 a new race was born. The U.S. Army helped clear portions of the trail and with the support of the Nome Kennel Club (Alaska's earliest, founded in 1907), the race went all the way to Nome for the first time. Even so, the mushers still had to break much of their own trail and take care of their own supplies. The winner of the first Iditarod was Dick Wilmarth, taking almost three weeks to reach Nome.

Redington had two reasons for organizing the long-distance Iditarod Race: to save the sled dog culture and Alaskan huskies, which were being phased out of existence due to the introduction of snowmobiles in Alaska; and to preserve the historical Iditarod Trail between Seward and Nome. To promote both goals, Redington asked Dorothy Page to be the editor of an Iditarod Annual. Her enthusiasm, drive, and love of history opened the world's eyes to the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race®.

The race is really a reconstruction of the freight route to Nome and commemorates the part that sled dogs played in the settlement of Alaska. The mushers travel from checkpoint to checkpoint much as the freight mushers did eighty years ago-although some modern dog drivers like Doug Swingley, Martin Buser, Jeff King, Susan Butcher, and Rick Swenson move at a pace that would have been incomprehensible to their old-time counterparts, making the trip to Nome in under ten days.

Since 1973, the race has grown every year despite financial ups and downs. The Iditarod has become so well-known that the best mushers now receive thousands of dollars a year from corporate sponsors. Dog mushing has recovered to become a north-country mania in the winter, and some people now make comfortable livings from their sled-dog kennels.

While the Iditarod has become by far Alaska's best-known sporting event, there are a dozen other major races around the state every winter, such as the grueling thousand-mile Yukon Quest, the Kobuk 440, the Kusko 300, the Klondike 300, and the Copper Basin 300. In a revival of age-old tradition, some entire villages and towns in rural Alaska become swept away in the frenzy of sled dog racing, and sled dog are now common in many rural areas where they were eclipsed by "iron dogs" only a few decades ago.

Alaska is the world Mecca for sled dog racing, which has developed into a popular winter sport in the Lower 48, Canada, Europe, and even Russia. Mushers from more than a dozen foreign countries have run the Iditarod, and Alaskan mushers routinely travel Outside to races such as the John Beargrease in Minnesota, the Big Sky in Montana, the UP 200 in Michigan, and the Alpirod in Europe. A number of Alaskan mushers have even run races in the Russian Far East. The Winter Olympics are considering adding sled dog racing as an event and several sled dog races were held in Norway in conjunction with the 1994 games.

Although the race's fame causes many people to think of the Iditarod Trail when they think of traveling to Nome, the trail is actually impassable during the spring, summer, and fall. Moreover, its routing is far from a direct course, taking about 1,150 miles to go the 650 or so airline miles from Anchorage to Nome. In addition, the race committee has routed the race to pass through a number of towns and villages missed by the original trail, and has adopted a northern route for even-numbered years to include more villages along the Yukon.

The checkpoints for the first half of the current race are Anchorage to Campbell Airstrip, Willow, Knik, Yentna Station, Skwentna, Finger Lake, Rainy Pass (Puntilla), Rohn Roadhouse, Nikolai, McGrath, Takotna, and Ophir. In odd numbered years the middle part of the race largely follows the original trail, from Ophir through Iditarod, Shageluk, Anvik, Grayling, and Eagle Island to Kaltag. In even years, it swings north from Ophir to Cripple, Ruby (heart of another old mining district), Galena, Nulato, and on to Kaltag.

From Kaltag, the home stretch is the same every year: Unalakleet, Shaktoolik, Koyuk, Elim, Golovin, White Mountain, Safety Roadhouse, and Nome. True to their predecessors, the mushers still run down Front Street past the still notorious saloons into the heart of the Last Frontier's last frontier town to the burled arch. Every musher's arrival is heralded by the city's fire siren and every musher is greeted by a crowd lining the "chute", no matter the time of day or night, or if he or she is first or fifty-first across the line.

The Beginning of The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race®

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race first ran to Nome in 1973.

In the mid 1950's, Jo and Vi Redington were writing letters to bring rememberance to the old Iditarod Trail and it's important historical significance to Alaska's history.

There were two short races using nine miles of the Iditarod Trail in 1967 and 1969. (Sprint races)

The idea of having a race over a portion of the Iditarod Trail was conceived by the late Dorothy G. Page. In 1964, Page was chairman of the Wasilla-Knik Centennial Committee and was working on projects to celebrate Alaska's Centennial Year in 1967.

Page was intrigued that dog teams could travel over land that was not accessible by automobile. In the late 1890's and early 1900′s, settlers had come to Alaska following a gold strike. They traveled by boat to the coastal towns of Seward and Knik and from there, by land into the gold fields. The trail they used is today known as The Iditarod Trail, first surveyed by the Alaska Road Commission in 1908 and now one of the National Historic Trails as so designated by the Congress of the United States. In the winter, their only means of travel was by dog team.

The Iditarod Trail soon became the major "thoroughfare" through Alaska. Mail was carried across this trail, people used the trail to get from place to place and supplies were transported via the Iditarod Trail. Priests, ministers and judges traveled between villages via dog team.

All too soon the gold mining began to slack off. People began to go back to where they had come from and suddenly there was less travel on the Iditarod Trail. The use of the airplane in the late 1920's signaled the beginning of the end for the dog team as a standard mode of transportation, and of course with the airplane carrying the mail, there was less need for land travel. The final blow to the use of the dog team came with the appearance of snowmobiles in Alaska.

By the mid 60′s, most people in Alaska didn't even know there was an Iditarod Trail or that dog teams had played a very important part in Alaska's early settlement. Dorothy G. Page, a resident of Wasilla and self-made historian, recognized the importance of an awareness of the use of sled dogs as working animals and of the Iditarod Trail and the important part it played in Alaska's colorful history.

Page presented the possibility of a race over part of the Iditarod Trail in celebration of Alaska's Centennial celebration in 1967 to an enthusiastic Joe Redington, Sr., a musher from the Knik area. Soon the Pages and the Redingtons began promoting the idea of the Iditarod Race to the extent that Joe and Vi Redington moved to the Knik area from their homestead at Flat Horn Lake and they have never moved back. (Flat Horn Lake is approximately 30 miles out of Knik.)

The Aurora Dog Mushers Club, along with men from the Adult Camp in Sutton helped clear years of over-growth from a nine mile section of the Iditarod Trail. The sprint race from Knik to Big Lake and back again was a two day event covering 56 miles. Their hard work was finished in time for Alaska's 1967 Centennial celebrations and the first race along part of the Iditarod Trail. A $25,000 purse was offered in that race, with Joe and Vi Redington donating one acre of their land at Flat Horn Lake adjacent to the Iditarod Trail to help raise the funds. (The land was subdivided into one square foot lots and sold with a deed and special certificate of ownership, raising $10,000 toward the purse.) Contestants from all over Alaska and even two contestants from Massachusetts entered that first race on the Iditarod Trail , but a newcomer, Isaac Okleasik, from Teller, Alaska, won the race with his team of large working dogs. The sprint race was put on only one more time in 1969.

Joe never gave up on looking for a way to preserve the history of the Iditarod Trail and began talking to friends about a long distance race. The goal was to have the race go to the goldrush ghost town of Iditarod in 1973. However, in 1972, the decision was made to take the race the 1,000 miles all the way to Nome. Howard Farley and the residents in Nome were instrumental in getting the northern portion of the race organized. Meanwhile, the U.S. Army reopened the southern portion of the trail between Fairwell Lake and Knik as part of a winter exercise. Two teachers ,Tom Johnson and Gleo Hyuck believed in Redington's vision of a long-distance race and worked with Joe to incorporate the Iditarod Race and plan it. Then others volunteered. The "Last Great Race on Earth" was a reality - all amidst comments that it couldn't be done. Joe's determination and vision along with many volunteers led to what we know today as the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.

There were many who believed it was crazy to send a bunch of mushers out into the vast uninhabited Alaskan wilderness. But the race went! Twenty-two mushers finished that year and to date, there have been over 400 finishers. Mushers have come from Canada, Czechoslovakia, France, Great Britain, Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Italy, Japan, Austria, Australia, Sweden and the Soviet Union as well as from about 20 different states in this country.

For Joe Redington, the Father of the Iditarod, there were two most important reasons for the Iditarod Sled Dog race. He is quoted in Nan Elliot's book, I'd Swap my Old Skidoo for You, "When I went out to the villages (in the 1950's) where there were beautiful dogs once, a snow machine was sitting in front of a house and no dogs. It wasn't good. I didn't like that I've seen snow machines break down and fellows freeze to death out there in the wilderness. But dogs will always keep you warm and they'll always get you there." He was determined to bring back the sled dog to Alaska and to get the Iditarod Trail declared as a National Historic Trail.

Dorothy G. Page, the "Mother of the Iditarod" is quoted in the October 1979 issue of the Iditarod Runner on her intent for the Iditarod: "To keep the spirit of the Iditarod the same. I don't ever want to see high pressure people getting in and changing the spirit of the race. We brought the sled dog back and increased the number of mushers. It is really an Alaskan event. I think the fact that it starts in Anchorage and then ends in Nome has opened up a whole new area for people in Alaska. I think they appreciate that. It puts them in touch with the pioneer spirit." At this time, Dorothy was fairly 'new' to Alaska, and the conversations that she and Joe had blended with Joe's knowledge and goals to create a common recognition of the importance of the Iditarod Trail.

Edited 2/2012

Joe Redington, Sr. (Father of Iditarod)
Reprinted from 1974 Iditarod Annual, by Dorthory G. Page. Revised July 2000, Edited 2/2012

Joe Redington, Sr. arrived in Knik, Alaska, on June 2, 1948, with $18 in his pocket and high hopes in his heart. He'd left his home in Pennsylvania in May and had driven over the still primitive Alcan Highway seeking a new home in the far north.

Fate stepped in just after he'd crossed the Alaskan border, too. Someone gave Joe a sled dog pup. Perhaps it was a sign that he would launch a new career in Alaska dealing with raising sled dogs, racing, and promoting racing. A 'career' that would make him famous throughout Alaska, the rest of the United States, and other parts of the world.

Redington headed for Knik to check on homestead land. Soon after he arrived in the scenic spot overlooking Knik Arm of Cook Inlet, he chose his land and filed on a homestead. The filing fee was $13. All Joe had left now was $5 and his new sled dog friend.

On his second day, Joe shot a black bear for meat. Also, three old-timers, Heinie Snider, Fred Hurd, and Jay Lavan, brought him 100 pounds of potatoes and a sack of canned goods. It was their idea of a welcome and extending a helping hand to a new Alaskan. Joe never forgot their kindness. In turn, he's helped others.

Along with his "gift" groceries, Joe charged other groceries at Teeland's Country Store in Wasilla until he could get his feet on the ground. But he was well on his way to being an Alaskan.

Soon, Joe had his homestead cabin built and had acquired more sled dogs. He started "Knik Kennels" in 1948 and was going strong until he passed away June 24, 1999. By his second year in Alaska, he had over 40 dogs. It appeared even then that dogs would be big in his future. Perhaps because of his early upbringing, Joe took naturally to raising sled dogs.

Redington had been born in Kingfisher, Oklahoma at the end of World War I. He lived in Oklahoma with his father and brother until he was six years old. His father was a farmer, rancher, and an oil field worker, among other things.

At the age of 10, Joe, his Dad and brother joined a group of Irish gypsies traveling throughout the central part of the United States. They remained with them for two years and Joe says, "It was the best education a young boy could have, it taught me a lot about people."

In 1930, the Redingtons moved to Jersey City, N.J., for a year or so, but didn't like the city life. They later moved to Kintersville, Pennsylvania, where they settled on a farm. It was in Kintersville that Joe first met Violet - who was to become his wife many years later.

In 1940, Joe enlisted in the U.S. Army. He joined the 6th Field Artillery - the horse artillery - at Fort Hoyle, Maryland.

During World War II, Joe was transferred to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and joined the Infantry and Field Artillery Jump School. After he completed his training, he was assigned to the Pacific Theater and was part of General McArthur's Special Assault Troops.

Joe returned to Okinawa on December 6, 1945, and was discharged at Fort Dix, N.J., after almost six years in service. He went back to Kintersville, Pennsylvania., and began preparing for a trip to Alaska. He sold Jeeps and farm machinery to help raise money for the trip.

Joe's army background helped him get his first "big" job in Alaska. He obtained a special job with the U.S. Air Force, 5039th Maintenance and Supply Group - commonly known as Rescue and Reclamation - whose main concern was the recovery of wrecked aircraft and the rescue of service personnel; or the bringing out of their remains.

From 1949 to 1957, Joe and his dog teams brought out millions of dollars of aircraft and hundreds of U.S. servicemen from the mountains. The only part that Joe didn't like was the recovery of dead fliers.

One bad crash Joe recalled happened in the spring of 1955 when a Navy Neptune bomber crashed into Mt. Susitna across Cook Inlet from Anchorage, killing all of its 11 man crew. Three separate attempts were made to bring out the remains, but the first two were foiled by bad weather. Finally, in May, after 42 days of rigorous work locating the scattered bodies, some covered in 12 foot of snow, the job was completed.

Unable to destroy the Neptune because of the deep snow, the reclamation crew returned that summer and finished the job.

During rescue work, Joe used teams of as many as 20 or 30 big huskies. Most of the dogs weighed between 75 and 100 pounds and could go all day at a steady trot pulling sled and freight.

Redington also mushed his dog teams to remote sites along the Dew Line in the Arctic. The use of high powered helicopters for rescue and reclamation eventually put an end to the need for dog teams and Joe's work with the army ended.

On February 18, 1953, Joe and Vi were married in Wasilla by the U.S. Commissioner, May Carter, who served as postmaster in Wasilla for many years.

The Redingtons moved to Flat Horn Lake along the old Iditarod Trail, and established a new homestead and guiding service. For a few years, they lived in a tent until their frame home was built. The house ended up being 70 feet long.

By this time, Joe had his big game guiding license and his pilot's license and was busy building up a new business. But he still used the dog teams. His kennel now housed 270 dogs. Everything Joe needed for building and all supplies had been hauled into Flat Horn by dog team.

Only after he accepted the job of promoting a $25,000 centennial year spectacular sled dog race, did Joe and Vi Redington return to Knik as it was easier to work from there. Promoting the race became a full time job.

The 1967 Centennial Race, (a sprint race) was named in honor of Leonhard Seppala and was called the Iditarod Trail Seppala Memorial Race. This was a 56 mile race between Knik and Big Lake and back along nine miles of the Iditarod Trail.

To raise funds for the race, Joe and Vi donated an acre of their land at Flat Horn Lake to the cause. The land was subdivided into lots one foot square. Along with the deed to the lot, the buyer also got a "Certificate of Ownership" - or as Redington once remarked - "about two dollars worth of paper!" because it didn't cost a lot to subdivide the acre. The Iditarod Trail Committee was hard at work putting in the trail, raising money, and promoting the race.

In 1968, there was no race due to lack of interest and lack of snow. But for Joe Redington, that was not the case .

Joe's vision of the race on the Iditarod Trail grew by hundreds of miles over the next several years. His vision was to bring the sled dogs back to the villages and to have the Iditarod Trail recognized as a National Historic Trail. The first Iditarod race to Nome was in 1973. Joe did not get to race, but his team driven by his son, Raymie Redington, did star n this first race. Joe had to stay behind and raise money for the purse. His vision has now become a world class sporting event, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race®. It is truly "The Last Great Race on Earth®".

In 1997, Joe Redington, Sr. took part in the 25 Anniversary Iditarod Race after celebrating his 80th birthday. The race was dedicated to this great sled dog racing pioneer. He is the only musher to have been given the first position to leave the chute without drawing, as well as to wear the #1 bib. ¹

Joe never did win the race he loved so much, but that wasn't as important to him as just being on the trail with his beloved sled dogs. He raced in 19 races and came in 5th place four times.

Joe Redington, Sr. died in June of 1999 of cancer. He was buried in Wasilla in his favorite dogsled in a specially made vault.
Joe's name is called during roll call at every Iditarod Trail Board meeting. The Board President always excuses Redington's absence because "Joe is on the trail." This routine procedure at Iditarod Board meetings reminds us of the Iditarod spirit that Joe Rerdintong Sr. exemplified and lives on in the lives of all the mushers, volunteers, and fans of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
Joe Redington Memorial

At 1 PM on February 1, 2003 at the Iditarod Headquarters in Wasilla, Vi Redington unveiled the life-size bronze statue to commemorate her late husband and Father of the Iditarod, Joe Redington Sr. The Friends of Joe Redington Sr. raised $35,000 in over nine months to make this statue a reality. Everyone in attendance agreed that the artist, Joan Bugbee Jackson of Cordova, did and outstanding job of capturing Joe's likeness. The detail she put into the work, especially the Iditarod patches on his parka are "just exquisite," said Iditarod Trail Committee director, Stan Hooley. The base for this statue was made by Dave Olson. Dave was and to this day, still is a backbone of the Iditarod.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The World was Changing... Original document by Don Bowers, Edited 2012 Even after the advent of the airplane, dog teams continued to be widely used for local transportation and day-to-day work, particularly in Native villages.

# data[].attributes.body
This artical tells more about the thrill of not only participating and witnessing the great race, but the thrill of it being named "The Last Great Race on Earth". It talks about the "Spirit of Alaska", the spirit of the rocky terrain. This race will take its challengers through some of the toughest areas on earth. It pits man against the forces of nature. Every Musher has their own style to lead there dogs. Mushers can be anyone from doctors and miners. Worldwide this race is known, and worldwide people come to challenge the nature of Alaska.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You can't compare it to any other competitive event in the world! A race covering 1000 miles of the roughest, most beautiful terrain Mother Nature has to offer.

# data[].attributes.body
This article points out that diet is another factor that can affect a dog's performance. Unlike humans who rely on carbohydrates for most of our energy, sled dogs' need more fats and proteins for sufficient energy. Some people might think that dogs eat snow to hydrate but this is not true. Water is much denser, and snow can use up energy to melt. The best thing for dogs is warm water to heat their bodies up.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Article Updated: June 16, 2016 From Wikipedia - Eurohound Grace History According to Egil Ellis, a top sled dog racer, various types of pointers have been popular with Swedish sled dog racers for at least the last 50 years, and Alaskan Huskies were imported

# data[].attributes.body
This is a PDF file that tells more information about the vaccine for Diphtheria. It has a lot of information and really helps explain what the vaccine does for people who have had Diphtheria. It also explains how old you must be in order to get the vaccine for the first time. Everyone should get vaccinated for this disease, even if you have had it before, in order to prevent from getting it again.

# data[].attributes.body
This article suggests that there are three breeds of dogs that are considered as true sled dogs. The three are: the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and the Eskimo Dog. The Malamute is a very hardy and powerful dog. The Husky is quick and has endurance. Though not being as fast as the other two, the Eskimo Dog is fearless and listens to commands.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
By Linda Cole

The Siberian Husky is the breed most people associate with pulling a sled, but they aren't the only breed to make up a dog team. Teams of dogs can be made up of 10 different breeds, but there are only 3 breeds considered to be true sled dogs.

Alaska is an unforgiving country where dogs have provided transportation for centuries. With few roads, the Inuit Indians still use sled dogs today to get to hunting grounds and to move goods between villages. It's believed nomadic tribes in eastern Siberia were the first people to use dogs to pull sleds or sleighs, but it has never been determined exactly when dogs began pulling sleds for humans.

The term Husky at one time was used to define all northern sled dogs, and they were all considered as one group. The dogs were selected based on their performance rather than a specific breed characteristic. The northern dog of today, unlike other breeds, is considered to be most like their cousin, the wolf. Like the wolf, northern dogs can travel easily over large distances by utilizing powerful leg muscles and backs that enable them to trot at a steady pace for days if necessary. Plus, they are well suited for harsh winter conditions. These dogs are social, but they do have an independent spirit.

There are three breeds considered to be the true sled dogs, selected based on their performance, endurance and the task at hand: Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky and the Eskimo Dog.

The Alaskan Malamute is a hardy dog that is a descendant of the Arctic wolf. Its name comes from the Alaskan tribe called Mahlemut who began raising this breed 2000 to 3000 years ago for transportation. Malamutes are cousins to the Siberian Husky, American Eskimo Dog and Samoyed. Of the three true breeds of sled dogs, the Malamute has the most power, but is slower than the other two.

The Siberian Husky is believed to have been bred centuries ago in Siberia off the eastern peninsula by a tribe called the Chukchi Tribe. The Husky was used as a guard dog, to herd reindeer and pull sleds. Because the Husky is the fastest of the three true sled dogs, they found their way to Alaska by way of fur traders who brought them from Siberia for dog racing.

It was teams of Siberian Huskies who pulled the sleds and musher carrying vials of life saving serum being transported to Nome, Alaska during the 1925 diphtheria epidemic. They also made up a special Arctic Search and Rescue Unit for the Army during World War II because of their sense of smell. The Husky is a strong, surefooted and determined dog. Strong, quick and lightweight, the Husky has the endurance to go long distances and loves to run, as do all three of the true sled dogs.

The Eskimo Dog (Canadian Eskimo Dog) is a true native of Canada. Their early history was aiding Inuit tribes in hunting, guarding and pulling sleds 2,000 years ago. They are an extremely hardy dog and, like the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute, are well suited for living and working in the harsh climate of the north. This true sled dog can pull up to twice his weight and still cover up to 70 plus miles a day. However, the Eskimo Dog is considered to be a rare dog these days and not as well known as their counterparts. This hardy work horse is extremely intelligent and once he learns a command, he never forgets it.

With a muscular, toned body accustomed to pulling heavy loads and running for miles at a time, the Eskimo Dog is playful, submissive, easy to train, not as stubborn as a Husky or Malamute, not as apt to wander away, very alert and curious. This fearless dog was once used for protection from polar bears and musk ox, and was quite capable of holding the wild animal at bay or attacking it, whichever was needed. Compared to the other true sled dogs, the Eskimo dog is moderate in speed and the middleweight of the group.

Most sled dogs are quiet and rarely bark. However, they do howl like wolves which can be a beautiful, eerie sound on a cold winter night. They make excellent family dogs for the most part. I know from experience that the Siberian Husky loves to run, and if they get away from you, they will come back home when they are good and ready.

Other breeds used as sled dogs are: Alaskan Husky, Alusky, Chinook, Eurohound, Greenland Dog, Mackenzie River Husky and Samoyed.

Read more articles by Linda Cole

The personal opinions and/or use of trade, corporate or brand names, is for information and convenience only. Such use does not constitute an endorsement by CANIDAE® All Natural Pet Foods of any product or service. Opinions are those of the individual authors and not necessarily of CANIDAE® All Natural Pet Foods.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
By Linda Cole The Siberian Husky is the breed most people associate with pulling a sled, but they aren't the only breed to make up a dog team. Teams of dogs can be made up of 10 different breeds, but there are only 3 breeds considered to be true sled dogs.

# data[].attributes.body
Some people have the wrong idea about sled dogs racing. They think that sled dogs are overworked and forced to pull the sled. Little do people know that the dogs love pulling. It is something that excites them. This video really highlights the relationship between humans and their sled dogs. Sledding is a completely satisfying and enjoyable activity for both dogs and man.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sled Dogs: More Than Meets the Eye | National Geographic

# data[].attributes.body
This is a great video that explains everything about Diptheria in an easy to understand way. It is short and to the point and shows some diagrams explaining what parts of the body are targeted and what happens when you have Diphtheria.

# data[].attributes.body
What is seen here is something that may not be recognized by most. This contraption is used for training sled dogs. The lead dog runs opposite to the rest of the team that are attached to the wheel.

# data[].attributes.body
This is a picture of sled dogs in Denali, Alaska. Notice in this picture that the dogs have boots on their feet. When dogs run long distances, their feet get worn down and sore. The boots protect their feet from the cold, hard ice.

# data[].attributes.headline
EC - Diagram of Diphtheria and Diphtheria symptoms

# data[].attributes.subject
EC - Diagram of Diphtheria and Diphtheria symptoms

# data[].attributes.body
This is a diagram explaining and showing the symptoms of Diphtheria. This is a build off of the article about the symptoms of this disease. This is a good image that shows the kind of thing that happens inside the mouth when someone has Diphtheria.

# data[].attributes.body
This is an article that goes into depth about symptoms of Diphtheria. Diphtheria is a disease that mainly targets the neck, head, and mouth. The symptoms are usually outward symptoms that you can see easily to know if you have it or not. There are some symptoms that are not able to be seen or heard, so those are more dangerous.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Overview

Diphtheria (dif-THEER-e-uh) is a serious bacterial infection usually affecting the mucous membranes of your nose and throat. Diphtheria typically causes a sore throat, fever, swollen glands and weakness. But the hallmark sign is a sheet of thick, gray material covering the back of your throat, which can block your airway, causing you to struggle for breath.

Diphtheria is extremely rare in the United States and other developed countries, thanks to widespread vaccination against the disease.

Medications are available to treat diphtheria. However, in advanced stages, diphtheria can damage your heart, kidneys and nervous system. Even with treatment, diphtheria can be deadly - up to 3 percent of people who get diphtheria die of it. The rate is higher for children under 15.

Symptoms

Diphtheria signs and symptoms usually begin two to five days after a person becomes infected and may include:

A thick, gray membrane covering your throat and tonsils

A sore throat and hoarseness

Swollen glands (enlarged lymph nodes) in your neck

Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing

Nasal discharge

Fever and chills

Malaise

In some people, infection with diphtheria-causing bacteria causes only a mild illness - or no obvious signs and symptoms at all. Infected people who remain unaware of their illness are known as carriers of diphtheria, because they can spread the infection without being sick themselves.

Skin (cutaneous) diphtheria

A second type of diphtheria can affect the skin, causing the typical pain, redness and swelling associated with other bacterial skin infections. Ulcers covered by a gray membrane also may develop in cutaneous diphtheria.

Although it's more common in tropical climates, cutaneous diphtheria also occurs in the United States, particularly among people with poor hygiene who live in crowded conditions.

When to see a doctor

Call your family doctor immediately if you or your child has been exposed to someone with diphtheria. If you're not sure whether your child has been vaccinated against diphtheria, schedule an appointment. Make sure your own immunizations are current.

Causes

The bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae causes diphtheria. Usually C. diphtheriae multiplies on or near the surface of the mucous membranes of the throat. C. diphtheriae spreads via three routes:

Airborne droplets. When an infected person's sneeze or cough releases a mist of contaminated droplets, people nearby may inhale C. diphtheriae. Diphtheria spreads efficiently this way, particularly in crowded conditions.

Contaminated personal items. People occasionally catch diphtheria from handling an infected person's used tissues, drinking from the infected person's unwashed glass or coming into similarly close contact with other items on which bacteria-laden secretions may be deposited.

Contaminated household items. In rare cases, diphtheria spreads on shared household items, such as towels or toys.

You can also come in contact with diphtheria-causing bacteria by touching an infected wound.

People who have been infected by the diphtheria bacteria and who haven't been treated can infect nonimmune people for up to six weeks - even if they don't show any symptoms.

Risk factors

People who are at increased risk of contracting diphtheria include:

Children and adults who don't have up-to-date immunizations

People living in crowded or unsanitary conditions

Anyone who travels to an area where diphtheria is endemic

Diphtheria rarely occurs in the United States and Western Europe, where health officials have been vaccinating children against the condition for decades. However, diphtheria is still common in developing countries where immunization rates are low.

In areas where diphtheria vaccination is standard, the disease is mainly a threat to unvaccinated or inadequately vaccinated people who travel internationally or have contact with people from less-developed countries.

Complications

Left untreated, diphtheria can lead to:

Breathing problems. Diphtheria-causing bacteria may produce a toxin. This toxin damages tissue in the immediate area of infection - usually, the nose and throat. At that site, the infection produces a tough, gray-colored membrane composed of dead cells, bacteria and other substances. This membrane can obstruct breathing.

Heart damage. The diphtheria toxin may spread through your bloodstream and damage other tissues in your body, such as your heart muscle, causing such complications as inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis). Heart damage from myocarditis may be slight, showing up as minor abnormalities on an electrocardiogram, or severe, leading to congestive heart failure and sudden death.

Nerve damage. The toxin can also cause nerve damage. Typical targets are nerves to the throat, where poor nerve conduction may cause difficulty swallowing. Nerves to the arms and legs also may become inflamed, causing muscle weakness. If C. diphtheria toxin damages the nerves that help control muscles used in breathing, these muscles may become paralyzed. Respiration may then become impossible without a respirator or another device to assist with breathing.

With treatment, most people with diphtheria survive these complications, but recovery is often slow. Diphtheria is fatal in as many as 3 percent of those who get the disease.

Prevention

Before antibiotics were available, diphtheria was a common illness in young children. Today, the disease is not only treatable but is also preventable with a vaccine.

The diphtheria vaccine is usually combined with vaccines for tetanus and whooping cough (pertussis). The three-in-one vaccine is known as the diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine. The latest version of this vaccine is known as the DTaP vaccine for children and the Tdap vaccine for adolescents and adults.

The diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine is one of the childhood immunizations that doctors in the United States recommend during infancy. Vaccination consists of a series of five shots, typically administered in the arm or thigh, given to children at these ages:

The diphtheria vaccine is effective at preventing diphtheria. But there may be some side effects. Some children may experience a mild fever, fussiness, drowsiness or tenderness at the injection site after a DTaP shot. Ask your doctor what you can do for your child to minimize or relieve these effects.

Rarely, the DTaP vaccine causes serious complications in a child, such as an allergic reaction (hives or a rash develops within minutes of the injection), seizures or shock - complications that are treatable.

Some children - such as those with epilepsy or another nervous system condition - may not be candidates for the DTaP vaccine.

Booster shots

After the initial series of immunizations in childhood, you need booster shots of the diphtheria vaccine to help you maintain immunity. That's because immunity to diphtheria fades with time.

Children who received all of the recommended immunizations before age 7 should receive their first booster shot at around age 11 or 12. The next booster shot is recommended 10 years later, then repeated at 10-year intervals. Booster shots are particularly important if you travel to an area where diphtheria is common.

The diphtheria booster is combined with the tetanus booster - the tetanus-diphtheria (Td) vaccine. This combination vaccine is given by injection, usually into the arm or thigh.

Tdap is a combined tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine. It's a one-time alternative vaccine for adolescents age 11 through 18 and adults who haven't previously had a Tdap booster. It's also recommended for anyone who's pregnant, regardless of previous vaccination status.

Talk to your doctor about vaccines and booster shots if you're unsure of your vaccination status. Tdap may also be recommended as part of the Td series for children ages 7 through 10 who aren't up to date with the vaccine schedule.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Diphtheria (dif-THEER-e-uh) is a serious bacterial infection usually affecting the mucous membranes of your nose and throat. Diphtheria typically causes a sore throat, fever, swollen glands and weakness. But the hallmark sign is a sheet of thick, gray material covering the back of your throat, which can block your airway, causing you to struggle for breath.

# data[].attributes.body
This is the Logo for the 2017 race. The 2017 race took place March 3. There is no decided Logo for the 2018 race as of May 2017.

# data[].attributes.body
This is a map for the current Iditarod race. The dark blue line is the trail that the dogs and mushers have to run. This race goes from Anchorage to Nome. It can be re-routed from the original if weather isn't permiting.

# data[].attributes.headline
AM - Supplies needed for the current Iditerod 

# data[].attributes.subject
AM - Supplies needed for the current Iditerod 

# data[].attributes.body
This artical briefly explains the neccesites of sled dog racing. It tells what is used to compete at the highest level for the current Iditerod. When racing, it is important to pack only the bare neccesties like food and booties for the dogs. Having a small and light sled is also a must. Written by 2012 Rookie of the year, Brent Sass, he tells all the things he know he must take, and the things he has to cut out. From what is needed for the dogs, to ways to pass the time, this artical will explain what and why.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Running a 1,000-mile sled dog race across Alaska is no small feat. Like any professional who performs at the highest level, dog mushers must be dedicated and focused in order to be competitive and successful. Raising, training, and racing sled dogs is more than a sport-it's a lifestyle.

As owner and operator of Wild and Free Mushing Kennel, I live with my dogs in Eureka, a remote Alaskan mining town that's 150 miles from the nearest city. I've traveled through country that's as rugged as it is beautiful, and I've encountered some of the harshest conditions on the planet-including gale-force winds, negative 50-degree temperatures, and freak blizzards.

Having the right equipment is essential to a musher's success. Here's a list of the most important gear we use to keep our dogs and ourselves happy, healthy, and safe along the trail.

Race-Mandated Gear

We're required to carry some gear with us at all times: a cold-weather sleeping bag; an axe; a pair of snowshoes; fuel; cooker and pot; and dog booties and harnesses. If I camp along the trail, I need a good sleeping bag, and I've found Feathered Friends makes a high-quality product.

I use the axe throughout the season to chop meat for the dogs' meals and collect firewood for camp. All mushers carry methanol and a specialized cooker large enough to heat at least three gallons of water. The hot water comes in handy when I need to heat my frozen, vacuum-sealed meals and make the dogs' food. Iditarod mushers are allowed to pick up methanol and water at each checkpoint.

I've rarely used snowshoes during a race, but when I need them to break trail, I'm happy to have them along.

The Sled

The sleds used in the Iditarod need to be lightweight, strong, and durable. We use "runner plastic"-essentially ski wax designed for different temperatures and conditions-on the runners to help the sled glide quickly over the snow.

Every musher has a preferred sled design-some competitors even build their own rigs. Cody Strathe of DogPaddle Designs builds my sleds, which tend to be small and maneuverable.

Small sleds also prevent me from carrying gear I don't need. All my equipment has to fit in the sled bag, a durable, custom-made pack that attaches to the sled. It stores everything I need. I use a Becker Sewing and Design bag, which I found can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Dog Booties, Jackets, and Harnesses

I pack 3,000 dog booties to run the Iditarod. Made of lightweight cordura, this is easily the most important piece of dog gear I use. Over the course of 1,000 miles, my dogs will race over bare ground, ice, fresh snow, and open water-and booties are the best way to prevent injury.

Harnesses aim to capture as much energy from the dogs as possible while still keeping the animals comfortable. I use the traditional "x-back" style that crisscrosses across the dog's back.

Finally, there are the dog jackets. I use outerwear from ManMat to help dogs conserve their energy when we're travelling in extremely cold temperatures. The jackets also keep the pups warm and comfortable when we're resting for the night.

iPod

If this doesn't sound like essential gear, then you've never tried staying awake and focused during a 1,000-mile dog race.

Mushers get very little rest, and there are sections of the Iditarod trail that are extremely monotonous, so most of us carry a music player. You won't find me out there without an iPod. I listen to music, podcasts, audio books, and even movies to help keep myself entertained.

And while I admit I'm not famous for my vocal talent, I do sing along to the songs. The dogs pick up on the energy you put out, and it helps keep their spirits up, too.

Layers

Every musher wears a wicking next-to-skin base layer. The outer layers come down to personal preference and conditions, and are made from merino, fleece, silk, down, or other synthetic fibers. We need to stay warm and dry, and when we do get soaked in sweat, we need quick-drying gear that will wick the moisture away from our bodies.

My go-to layers are Patagonia Capilene tops and bottoms, a one-piece full-body Polartec fleece suit by Carol Davis Sportswear, windstopper fleece shorts, a wool long-sleeve shirt, down vest, down jacket, and a Helly Hansen insulated softshell.

Parka

I wouldn't survive these races without a good parka-a durable, wind-resistant, well-insulated shell. It's so vital to the Iditarod that most mushers have these jackets custom-made to fit their exact specifications. I turn to Apocalypse Design to make my parkas-each of which have a fur ruff.

Sometimes there's no competing with nature, especially when it comes to warmth. When I need to stay warm in temperatures 50 degrees below zero, I use fur in my jacket from the animals that have evolved to survive these harsh conditions.

Every musher has a fur hat, fur mittens, and a fur parka ruff. You'll see beaver fur-known for its warmth, softness, and wind- and frost resistance-in the hats, mittens, and parkas of most mushers. You might also spot pelts from muskrats, wolves, and wolverines.

The fur ruff around the hood is the most important piece of the parka because it helps protect and insulate my face. Mushers typically use beaver or wolverine fur to line the inside of the ruff-these materials shed frost-and wolf fur along the outer rim.

Gloves and Mittens

So how do I keep my hands warm in frigid temperatures? A combination of beaver fur, wool, and hand warmers. For traveling on the trail, there is nothing that compares to the warmth and wind-protection of beaver mitts. Inside of the mittens, mushers usually wear a pair of thick wool or fleece gloves.

When I'm taking care of the dogs-bootying, massaging, snacking, feeding-I need more dexterity, and for those tasks I wear tight-fitting liner gloves, or half-gloves that only cover the palm of my hand. I use hand warmers all the time.

Footwear

In addition to taking care of 64 paws, I have to make sure my feet stay as warm and dry as possible. I'll usually wear a lightweight merino wool liner under thick alpaca socks from Pure Country Alpacas.

Some mushers also pack extra boot liners. There are different boot options, but mainly mushers are looking for efficiency-we need a boot that's as light as possible while still being warm, durable, and wind- and water-resistant. A thick sole or insole helps insulate our feet from the cold ground. I'll wear an aftermarket boot liner inside a pair of Lobbens-a tall felt boot from Norway-which in turn fit inside a pair of Neos overshoes.

Ski Poles

Toward the end of a race when the teams are moving slower, a musher can help his team by kicking behind the sled or poling. Most mushers carry a sturdy, lightweight ski pole for this purpose.

During the 2014 Yukon Quest, I also discovered that the poles come in handy for fending off moose, although I don't recommend anyone try that at home.

GoPro

I love sharing my races with my fans and friends, so I always carry a GoPro to capture the incredible moments along the way. Enough said.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In 2012, Brent Sass won Rookie of the Year at the Iditarod, one of the planet's most extreme races. The dog musher has run almost a dozen 1,000-mile races and he knows the right gear can mean the difference between life and death. These are the items he deems worthy of going on his sled.

# data[].attributes.body
This is an article describing the disease Dipthera. It tells about the symptoms, and treatments. It also tells what time of year it usually comes around. Diptheria isn't a very common diease currently, but it was very common back in the days of the first Iditarod.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Diphtheria | Kid-friendly Fact Sheet | CDC

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Meet the diphtheria disease villain and learn its powers, abilities, preferred method of attack and more in a fun kid-friendly fact sheet.

# data[].attributes.body
This article talks about how sled dogs are chosen today. The process is very different compared to what it was a long time ago. Sled dogs today are chosen based on little things like how enthusiastic the dogs are about eating. This article is important because some people don't understand how many small details go into picking sled dogs.

# data[].attributes.body
This is a map for the current Iditarod race. This map shows not only the trail, but a weather re-route. This picture map isw from the Alaskan Department of Natural Resourses. In the Keys, it even shows the mile distance from one town to the next one.