Expecting snow ahead, we made arrangements to secure sleds and some dogs to haul them. There are many things to consider when assembling a dogsled team, mentioned here for the benefit of the amateur. Dogs should be of similar size, strong and loyal, of even temperament, and include a mix of leaders and followers.

We assembled the finest hounds in the district. Many were lacking in self-esteem because of their pathetic names, so we empowered them with new personal brands. We will, however, include their original names (in parentheses) so their previous owners may learn of their exploits as real dogs.

Slayer (Leona) Wrath (Allegra)
Feisty (Fausta) Widowmaker (Aria)
Angel of Death (Dolce) Vengeance (Catarina)
Scourge (Tino) Mad Bastard (Bacio)