Jay Butan is a veterinarian who operated an animal hospital in Florida and served as veterinary staff for the Iditarod sled dog race between 2002 and 2016. Alaskan Huskies, a blend of dog breeds bred over time for their strength, speed, and ability to withstand cold temperatures, are commonly used for sled dog racing. These dogs must be adapted to keeping warm in harsh, cold conditions and have tough paws suited to running on rough terrain. All sled dogs undergo medical exams before racing to ensure they can physically handle the demands of the race.

1. AN OVERVIEW OF
SLED DOGS AND
RACING

2. A graduate of Tufts University School of Veterinary
Medicine, Jay Butan, DVM, is the operator of Canal
Animal Hospital in Lake Worth, Florida. Since 1989, the
companion animal veterinary hospital has served the local
pets with care. Jay Butan, DVM was a veterinary staff
member of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race between 2002 and
2016.
While any dog breed could technically qualify, not all can
run in the Iditarod sled dog race. The sled dog breeds
commonly running the race are referred to as Alaskan
Huskies, a blend of breeding over time to make these
athletic stars able to run fast, run long, and stay warm in
the environment. The vital attribute of these dogs is
strength, speed and athleticism.
The cold Alaskan temperatures where races like the
Iditarod are held mean that the dogs must have adapted
to being capable of keeping them warm in harsh
conditions. Sled dogs should also be breeds that have
tougher paws suited for running on rough and cold terrain.
Before running sled dog races such as the Iditarod, the
Yukon Quest, or performing other non-racing duties, every
animal undergoes a thorough medical examination to
ensure they can withstand the rigors of the race or work.
20XX PRESENTATION TITLE 2