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DPMR Kids: Caring for our Fur-Baby Running Companions

February 28, 2021 by Meggie Inouye Leave a Comment

This month I am taking a little different approach focusing on our four-legged family members. For many of us, our dogs are our fur-babies and beloved running companions. We enjoy miles with them out on the trails and want to make sure they are well taken care of.

My family welcomed a puppy just about a year ago, and as a first-time dog owner, it has been a journey and I am learning a lot. In our first months together, we were able to figure out some of the basics of puppy care like potty-training, kennel training, and basic obedience and tricks mostly through You-Tube videos, tips from friends, and advice from our veterinarian. But in the last couple of months, my dog entered adolescence and we started getting frustrated with some challenging behaviors and I had lots of questions about how best to care for our dog on longer and longer adventures on the trails and in the snow.

Our dog Zorii as a cute puppy

Thankfully I found an amazing team at Buddy Dog Training and Care in Truckee to help. We opted to do a one on one training sessions with Lilith Erlenbusch, the owner of Buddy Dog Care, and also signed up for a week long Board and Train program in which our dog stayed with Michael and Jen Raffaeli (aka Team Alaska). Their approach uses positive reinforcement to train dogs and they taught us how to create a stronger connection to our dog, which was a great fit for our ethos of dog ownership.

Michael and Jen have an extensive history working with athletic dogs specifically raising, training, and racing dog sled teams. Working with them set this experience apart for me as not only did they teach me and my dog some new skills, they also shared advice and resources on how to care for the special needs of endurance performance dogs through pages and pages of emails and in person discussion. They are true experts, excellent teachers, and were very patient with all of my newbie questions. They have given me permission to share their advice and resources with the DPMR family and I have done my best to summarize below.

Feeding and Nutrition: First off, the best ways to tell a dog is getting proper nutrition are based on weight, coat, stools, and energy. Chart below shows how to determine if your dog is ideal weight. Your dog’s coat should be shiny, not dry. Stools should be formed but not dry. Your dog should have good energy while running.

One of the big things we focused on for our sled dogs in training was ensuring that they had enough protein and fat to burn for energy since sled dogs metabolize fats the way humans use carbohydrates for energy while exercising. We fed a 32% protein kibble in winter and supplemented with a lot of fat (a tri fat blend made up of a mix of vegetable oil, fish oil, and chicken fat to provide the right balance of omega 3 and 6) due to the cold temperatures on the trail. An example of a tri fat blend oil is Ultra Oil Skin and Coat Supplement which can be added to daily feeding. In summer we fed around 26-28% protein and much less fat during the warmer months. Some of the brands of kibble that we have fed and like for our sled dogs over the years include Dr. Tim’s Momentum, Annamaet, and Red Paw.

It is important to consider the timing of feeding too. You never want to feed a dog immediately before or after strenuous exercise. Give at least 1 hour to digest meals before strenuous activity and allow time to cool down after before feeding her a big meal. Training treats/ snacks are fine before, during and after exercise. We snack sled dog teams all the time with small meals as they are running.

After puppyhood, dogs are typically fed larger meals two times a day. The only downfall to feeding larger meals 2x daily is that some dogs can eat very quickly. Dogs that eat quickly, especially large, deep chested dogs like huskies and labs are more susceptible to bloat (aka gastric dilation volvulus or GDV) which can cause a life-threatening situation. Here is a basic summary of bloat https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/health/dog-bloat-causes-signs-and-symptoms/. One way to prevent a dog from eating quickly is to use an interactive feeder like the Outward Hound Slow Feeder.

You can also consider adding supplemental raw food. You can feed fruits and veggies like carrots, sweet potatoes, blueberries, etc, if your dog enjoys them. You can also add additional proteins for treats like peanut butter, cottage cheese, sardines, and raw bones from a local butcher. Bones are important as they keep teeth and gums clean and healthy and are better than anything else we have found. They also keep a dog happy and entertained for a good amount of time. This free recipe book download from Furbal Remedies has some more ideas and information on adding in raw foods.

The other thing to focus on for athletes, of course, is hydration. Dogs should always be offered free water throughout the day. A product that is well tested for post run recovery is Annamaet Glycocharge. You might consider feeding your dog water baited with this after long runs especially in the summer months.

Annamaet also makes a great joint supplement product called “Endure” which dogs may need as they get older. The veterinarians we worked with felt that green lipped mussel sources of joint support were one of the few that is actually usable for a dog’s body. In addition, they make a powdered protein supplement called “Impact” that we used to use to increase protein and calories for our sled dogs when they were maxing out on kibble to provide the calories they needed. (https://annamaet.com/products/)

One of the primary sled dog (and canine athletes in general) nutrition researchers is Arleigh Reynolds. He is a long-time sprint racing dog musher and researcher with University of Alaska Fairbanks and Cornell. His research is often funded by Purina, but he is first and foremost a dog musher and a researcher and he won’t back anything that hasn’t presented the data and first-hand experience he is looking for in his dogs. Keep in mind that “sprint” racing for dogs is often 20-25 miles at 25-25mph. Distance racing sled dogs typically do 50 mile runs at about 8-12mph with 4-6 hours rest and then repeat throughout a 1,000-mile race in the middle of harsh Alaska winter conditions so the feeding program we put dogs on is going to be different than what is best for a dog accompanying a runner on the trail at various lengths. Nutrition should be individualized based on the dog’s level of activity. This link has helpful nutrition advice for a wide range of athletic dog breeds based on Arleigh’s research. (https://www.purinaproplanvets.com/media/1463/getresourceaxd-11.pdf)

Dog Care in the Snow:

Zorii with booties “skiing” in the fresh snow

If you notice that your dog starts forming lots of snowballs on leg fur or paws, you may want to consider purchasing Absorbine spray. Comb it through the fur before going outside to help prevent/ reduce snowballs forming. We used it with success on long haired sled dogs in Alaska and have recommended it to several folks to try out here on their dogs this winter. 

We also recommend booties to protect paws from snowballing. There are two brands we like: the finished top Mountain Ridge Booties and these Denier Cordura Booties. These mushing style booties are much simpler and lighter weight than typical pet dog booties and dogs tend to tolerate them and keep them on better in the snow. Use the size chart on the website to determine the right size. Purchase a couple extra as they will eventually wear out and get holes and can come off or get lost in really deep snow until you perfect your technique for putting them on. We recommend the 300 or 500 Denier Cordura booties…don’t ever get the fleece ones.

Booties are for protection from snowballs not for warmth. In certain snow conditions when the snow is fresh or sticky, snow can ball up between the paw pads much like a rock stuck in a shoe and cause discomfort while running and even damage to the paw. Only use the booties as needed. It is best to leave booties off in icy conditions to allow the dog to use the texture of their pads in addition to their nails to gain as much traction as possible and reduce the risk of slipping and pulling a muscle. Booties or paw wax like Musher’s Secret would also provide protection from ice melt salt that can be harmful to paws.

Jen demonstrates how to put on booties in videos found on Buddy Dog Care’s Blog https://www.buddydogcare.com/post/booties-protect-paws. My dog Zorii is the pup seen in the video 🙂

I hope that this summary has been enlightening but, if you are like me and still have questions specific to your canine running companion or need help with dog training, I encourage you to seek out Buddy Dog Training and Care services directly. They are a wonderful team and worth the time and money we spent with them.

Happy trails…woof!

Meggie and Zorii

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2023 Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon

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Join us on Aug 5, 2023!
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Oct
3
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 3 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Oct
5
Thu
5:30 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Oct 5 @ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels in Coldstream Canyon, Truckee. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Keep an[...]
Oct
10
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 10 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Oct
12
Thu
5:30 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Oct 12 @ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels in Coldstream Canyon, Truckee. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Keep an[...]
Oct
17
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 17 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
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dpmrunners

Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plen Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plenty of fun)!

📍 : @donnerskiranch 
⏰ : Saturday September 16th, 8am
🏃‍♀️ 🏃‍♂️ : Judah Loop and continue on the PCT.
Run the Judah loop for ~6 miles, continue to Anderson peak for ~13miles (or further on the PCT if you want to go longer)
🗺️ : https://www.strava.com/routes/3135724872218937730
🎉 : Rejoin at the Donner Ski Ranch Old 40 Bar & Grill after the run (and there may be some sweeeeet giveaways...).
🙋‍♀️ : The Judah Loop is a trail adopted and actively maintained by DPMR as part of @truckeetrails' Adopt a Trail program

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #lakesonoma #lakesonoma100k
Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOM Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOMORROW?!! DPMR is so excited to bring you this second edition of the race that promises to be bigger and better than last year! RD Chris Cloyd and team have been working so hard all week with final prep. The course is in great shape with some beautiful fun flowy singletrack. He said he'd love a few more volunteers so checkout the signup genius on our volunteer page, but otherwise wants everyone to please come hang out, cheer, and join the party! 
Unique to this race is the 5 segment course that utilizes a central aid station and can be done as a 2 person or 5 person relay, in addition to challenging yourself to run the whole thing solo!
Registration is still OPEN in person until 6pm tonight with bib pick-up at @tahoemountainsports with reg remaining open online til 1159pm. Race day bib pickup available in the morning 6-730am. No Race Day Reg. 

Thanks to our amazing sponsors this year, every participant will be eligible for a prize giveaway and get a pair of @darntoughvermont socks and @drinklmnt hydration.

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #trailmarathon #trailrace #pointmariah #pointmariahtrailmarathon
Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in th Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in the works.  We’ve been collaborating with Alibi Ale Works to release a co-branded beer (YES!).   Join us for a social run next Tuesday, where we'll have the pleasure of running alongside Alibi's head brewer, Matt Garcia! We'll hit the trails together, and afterward, we'll gather at Alibi to brainstorm the perfect brew that represents our club.  And since the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, we're adding some extra fun to the mix. We'll also be assembling course markings during the event. It's going to be an unforgettable night! Hope to see you there!
🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Ent 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Enthusiasts! Join Us in Supporting the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️
The Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, and we need YOUR help to make it a roaring success! 🌟 This incredible event brings together the running community and showcases the determination and passion of athletes from all walks of life. Now, we are seeking volunteers to be an essential part of this memorable experience!
📅 Event Date: August 5th
⏰ Volunteer Dates: Several different shifts available from August 2nd - August 6th
🤝 We firmly believe that it takes a village to organize events like these, and YOU can be a crucial part of this vibrant community effort! No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiastic spirit, and we'll guide you every step of the way.
📍 Positions Available:
1️⃣ Course Marking: Help ensure that the runners stay on track and have a smooth route to follow.
2️⃣ Finish Line Support: Cheer on our amazing athletes as they cross the finish line and celebrate their achievements.
3️⃣ Course Marshals: Guide and assist participants at key points along the trail, offering encouragement and direction.
4️⃣ Timing Assistance: Play a vital role in accurately recording race times and ensuring accurate results.
... and more! There are plenty of opportunities to contribute to the success of the marathon.
🌟 Not only will you have a fantastic time being part of this incredible event, but you'll also have the chance to bond with fellow running enthusiasts, make new friends, and create lasting memories.
💪 Together, let's show the world the power of community and support in making this marathon an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR!
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! Link in bio.
Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at the Diamond Peak aid station this weekend at the Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs.  Everyone out on the course really appreciated all of the support!!! Stay tuned, we will be posting the Volunt(hero) leaderboard soon!  In the meantime, we're seeking more incredible volunteers to join our team at the upcoming Pt. Mariah trail marathon, and we promise it'll be an experience you won't forget! 😄
Sign up today! No experience needed. Link in bio.
The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going strong with more than 60 volunteers out helping runners get through our various aid stations this year. What is the Volunt(hero) program? The top 10 DPMR volunteers with the most hours logged in 2023 will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win free race entries for a year, up to $1000. We will be posting our leaderboard soon but only a few hours separate those at the top.  Adding a shift can catapult you in to one of the coveted top 10 spots to be included in the raffle.  So come and join us THIS WEEKEND out at TRT! There are still openings overnight, morning clean up Sunday, and sweeps for TRT (Double points for morning clean up).
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻 Link in bio for more info!
Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane h Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane has been a DPMR member since the inaugural year (2014).  She has been a board member for 5 years with the last 3 at the helm. Diane loves a good joke and believes life is a whole lot better if you don’t take things too seriously.  She also believes that trail time is best shared with dogs and friends. And friends with dogs.  Diane is a recovering graphic designer but will come out of retirement for a good race logo opportunity (thank the cosmic forces for that!). Diane will be out on the course for the TRT100 next weekend - so if you see her out there, give her a big hello and high-five! Good luck Diane! #unafraid #dpmr #girlboss #100miler #paincave #yougotthis
Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-runni Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-running-obsessed artist extraordinaire to transform our boring old 3D foam sign for Pt. Mariah into a mind-blowing piece of art. Picture this: foam sculpture meets artistic genius equals immortalizing Pt. Mariah in your artistry.  The project consists of 30” letters, which are 4” thick, and spell Pt. Mariah.  The letters can be picked up in Truckee after Jul 3rd and need to be complete by August 3rd. This is a commissioned project with a budget of $500. 

Are you ready to unleash your creative beast? Then don't hesitate! Slide into our DMs faster than a trail runner chasing a PR. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create something truly legendary.
The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here!!  Please consider volunteering with us.  We have many shifts available from Friday, July 14th through Sunday, July 16th! 
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥

Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻
Link in bio for more information. 

P.S. If you are racing, let us know so we can cheer you on!!
What are you waiting for? Register today to take p What are you waiting for? Register today to take part in a unique, fun, multi-loop style course with five segments that tour different parts of the Royal Gorge land. Race solo, with a partner, or as a 5-person team!  There is something for everyone! Register today! Link in bio.
Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutel Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutely shattering the women’s course record at Western States 100 today! Such an inspiration to all. We know you are the GOAT but tell us the truth Courtney… is your secret weapon the DPMR pancakes?!?
Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western States 100 just now. Incredible performance landing him the 4th fastest time in the history of the event!  Well done Tom!
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