Mac is a superstar here at SP Kennel. He is a 5 year old main player and was on the Yukon Quest 2014 Championship team as well as the 2013 and 2014 Iditarod Red Teams. He is a fantastic dog with a super personality.
Mac is our biggest dog - by far - and weighed in for the 2014 Iditarod at just over 70 pounds. His big frame is an anomaly in the SP Kennel dog yard. But Mac is also a 'little different' because he is a pensive and thoughtful dog. He has the physical ability to bowl over any human or dog standing in the way and he can pull a freight train from standstill. But, when a person walks up to greet him he is always calm, cool and collected.
It's hard not to really like this big guy.
Mac was diagnosed with a torn salivary gland. The only permanent solution to this condition is a challenging surgery to remove the entire gland. We are fortunate to have a group of skilled veterinarians near SP Kennel at North Pole Veterinary Hospital. Aliy has known owners, Dr. Denali Lovely and her husband, Pat Lovely, for over 20 years. Their combined commitment and the commitment of the entire staff is evident at the hospital. Pat is currently redesigning and upgrading the entire 40 year old facility with pet friendly exam rooms, a nifty new patient waiting area and overall 'facelift'. It is very exciting to have a great clinic just 'around the corner'.
After several consults, Mac was scheduled for surgery last Thursday. Dr. Dawn Brown said the procedure was a challenge but was successful. Mac is recuperating at home and will need several weeks before he begins free running and even more until he returns to harness. The prognosis is for Mac to be at 'full strength' before the racing season begins.
Our Hospital 'around the corner'; Dr. Dawn Brown and Crystal after Mac's surgery; Great new 'pet friendly' hospital door.
Mac seems no worse for wear and has been showered with get well cards and well wishings. His favorite thus far has been a post-op "Get Well Soon" from his long-time buddy and sponsor, Macgellan!
Mac rides home in a drug induced stupor. He can not wear a collar so the pink leash was supposed to keep him "contained".
