What is there to do in Vermont during the fall? There is hiking and
enjoying the foliage but for the more adventurous how about dog carting! You
might ask “what is dog carting”? It is an increasingly popular activity offered
by several Vermnt dogsled tour companies in the cooler months before and after
the arrival of snow. Most people don’t think if dogsledding until the snow
comes but in reality dogsledding season has started months before.
Most mushers begin running their dogs once fall temperatures
arrive with wheeled vehicles of one sort or another. They are beginning to get
their dogs in shape for the winter season after a summer of relative
inactivity. Depending on where they are and what type of dogs they have some
mushers are able to do some running over the summer. A few mushers have even
begun cross training their dogs by having them swim in the off season. This
allows them to keep in shape and stay cool at the same time. For the rest of us
without the funds to have a doggie swimming pool or a lake on our property our
dogs spend much of their time during the summer laying around in the shade
trying to keep cool. Just like humans when they begin to exercise at a higher
intensity they have to ease into it starting out with shorter runs than they
were used to at the end of last season. As the season progresses the teams
become stronger and stronger and are able to do longer runs.
Some kennels have carts for their fall training that allow
passengers to ride along with the dog team. This is a great opportunity to go
for a dog team ride and view the fall foliage at the same time. Cart rides are
just as fast as sled rides but are generally warmer for the passengers. Most
aspects of the cart runs are the same as sled runs with the exception of the
wheels and the fact that there is no snow. When running with the carts the same
harnesses are used for the dogs. The gang lines attaching the dogs to the cart
are generally the same as the lines used on sleds and the same commands are
used. Carts are easier to get in and out of than the sleds due to the elevated
seats. These seats will make the ride more comfortable for most people. Going
for a cart tour is a great way to enjoy fall in Vermont and beat the winter sled season
rush. The next time you are visiting Vermont
in the fall in addition to leaf peeping, hiking, craft shows or hunting give
dog carting a try. It’s guaranteed to be a memorable experience that you will
never forget.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
