A memorable doggy play date

Waseca’s Memorial Park next to Barney’s Drive-In on the south side of Clear Lake was bustling Saturday, August 24 with a “Doggy Play Date and Picnic” on the Dog Park grounds which began at 10 a.m. and continued until 2. A central attraction for the day was Iditarod dog sled musher Linda Jay, who spoke regarding her experiences as a four-time participant. Also present was Sparky, the Waseca Fire Department mascot. Picnic food was provided by Barney’s Drive-In which included a hot dog, chips and a drink for $9. Tickets for food were available at the Waseca Dog Park, otherwise this was a free event.

The day began with the “Tail Wagging Talent show.” A puppy/dog costume contest and canine race followed. Sparky was present early in the event  

Kelly Boeddeker, executive director of Waseca Area Caregiver Services (WACS), organized the day’s event with help from numerous volunteers. WACS is a 501C nonprofit organization whose published aim is, “To give back to caregivers. Also to educate people about what we do.” Boeddeker explained “caregivers” are people who have family members or loved ones  requiring around-the-clock assistance and supervision. Caregiver Services’ aim is to provide safe places and suitable activities for elderly persons who spend much of their time alone. It also provides caregivers with much-needed free time and a break. The organization also sometimes arranges help with light handiwork and cleaning tasks, as well as meal and future meal preparation.  

Linda Jay, a four-time Iditarod dog sled musher, was present to answer questions, pose for photos or tell stories about her journey across Alaska’s frozen backlands. The Iditarod is the well-known, 938-mile dog sledding competition that has been held since 1973, Jay competed in 1996, 97,98 and 99. Mushers and their teams travel across Alaska from Anchorage to Nome; they are typically en route about 15 days. Waseca resident Jay was able to complete it in 13.

Jay was raised in Key West Florida, a fifth generation, self-described ‘military brat.’ After her daughter graduated high school, Jay began volunteering at the University of Minnesota Hospital, Hugo/Centerville. There she helped special needs children on a trip up north so the kids could try dog sledding. She was inspired by Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the Iditarod in 1985, and Susan Butcher, who was not only the second woman to win, but went on to retain the title from 1986 to 1989. Their accomplishments fueled her desire to compete. She said, “When I first got to Alaska, I found 38 great dogs and not one man.”

Jay commented on how quiet things were up north. She said she did not sleep every day of the 13 it took her to complete the race. Although she made sure her dogs did, she didn’t always have time. “When you stop to rest, the dogs need sleep, but you can’t. You have to check their pads, feed them, rub them down when they’re cramping. Then you have to eat, check your sled, make sure the dogs are resting. But the quiet, out there on the Yukon River while I was training, the Northern Lights were spirits, and they told tales. Not a person around for miles.”

Another feature of the doggy play day was a Puppy/Doggy Race which took place in one of the fenced-in areas. Eleven dogs competed by running across the field from owner to owner. First place was a black and tan Doberman female named Shelby, owner Dan Bruns. Second Place was a black lab male named Bud; his owner is Morgan Stubkiewicz. Third Place was Layla, a Siberian Husky female, owner Chris Ryan. 

Donations for the dog competition were from Barney’s Drive-In, Condon Farm Service, the American Legion and Camp Canine. Anyone wishing to attain the services of Waseca Area Caregiver Services, can find them at www.wasecacaregivers.com.