Meet Wattie McDonald, a 2-time Iditarod finisher, and his team of 33 hardworking (and very loving) huskies for a hands-on, photo-friendly experience in Stonehaven, Scotland. This is your chance to get up close with real sleigh dogs, learn what it takes to care for them, and hear first-hand stories from Alaskan racing adventures.

Your visit includes time in the kennel area where the dogs are kept, giving you a first-hand opportunity to see the huskies in their home environment and meet them up close. Expect plenty of interaction—unlimited husky hugs and cuddles, petting, and even grooming. (And yes, you may leave with a souvenir: husky fur on your clothes or in your pocket.)

You’ll also get unlimited opportunities to take photos with the dogs and around the kennel. Beyond the cuddles, you’ll explore the fleet of husky dryland carts, learning how they work and how teams train when there’s no snow. Wattie will share insights into the world of dog mushing, including how equipment is set up and what’s involved in managing a working dog team.

To round out the experience, enjoy an audio-visual presentation covering dog care and race preparation, including feeding routines and training habits. You’ll also watch real footage of the Iditarod trail from the 2010/2011 1100-mile race across Alaska, bringing the scale of the challenge to life. Before you go, stop by the gift corner to see ways you can stay connected and get involved.