To the Pointer People.....

I did state that I was starting with Oskar, and I don't think that running under 2 years of age will hurt him in any way.

Annie, I'll be back on the 5th if you'll be around that weekend at all? Or we can just wait til the following week, whichever works for you.

Oh okay, I must have read that wrong. Yep during the week anytime. I'm around Kzoo/Portage a lot. Could we aim for a Wednesday?

How old is Ozzy? If he's over 6 months, he's good to go for some light, fun training. I break all of my pups at 4months so that by the time they're 60lbs of furry monster, I'm not training them out of their dumb puppy habits. (Ex= jumping on partner, going nuts, turning around, etc) My litter is 7months old Oct 30 and they all have about 20 miles on them, all added in SMALL increments. Their first run ever in harness was a quarter mile. We did that every night for a week, then went up to a half mile. Did that two times a week, then went a mile. Did that once a week, etc.... and we've added from there. Now they're up to 2.5 at least once, sometimes twice a week (which is a VERY light workload). It's just long enough for them to fall into step without being tired. We can't go any further until temps drop, but they'll be at 3.2 for the majority of the season. Don't worry everyone, I wont make Sara train for Iditarod

Sara,

Didnt mean to offend you just offering friendly advice. Have seen people over due it by accident. My rule of thumb is 1 year with sporting breeds. I will not road/run Marta tell she passes OFA Just to be safe. Thats why I stated 2 years. Not only joint issues but sprains and strains while growing. I have seen that happen as well. I am not saying you wouldn't be careful because I know you will but just wanted to point out something to think about

Next wednesday I'll still be in DC but anytime after that or on weekends is cool!

I'm not worried about running Ozzy a bit at all. He's 8 months old now. I'm totally not training for the Iditarod either just looking for a fun way for my boys to run and keep fit. They run a TON every day just going to walks and playing fetch, so doing some running with a bike I think is a great way to 'control' it and get Ozzy fit for the ring. I'm sure not going to keep him sitting on the couch for fear of a strain, and I'm pretty sure getting some running in isn't going to hurt him a bit. I've made it this far with all my dogs healthy and in good shape, so I think I trust my own judgement.

Sara, PM'd you.