Sled Dogs Visit BOCES
On January 14, we welcomed seven sled dogs and their volunteer handlers from Little Meadows, Pa., for two separate Broome-Tioga BOCES educational and entertaining assemblies for our Oak Tree and PALS students, faculty and staff. The sled dogs are owned and managed by Dale and Mary Pitcher, experienced dog handlers who introduced students to the history, skills and teamwork behind sled dog sports. The morning and early-afternoon assemblies included live sled dog pull demonstrations, a hands-on explanation of sled dog harnesses, and a locally composed song inspired by the famous Alaskan Iditarod race. Students learned how sled dogs are trained, how teams work together, and how dogs are cared for year-round. The presentation highlighted animal science, physical endurance, and the cultural traditions of sled dog racing.