A team of Husky sled dogs moves swiftly across a snowy landscape, harnessed in front of a sled, showcasing power and teamwork. The background features a vast, snow-covered wilderness and distant trees, evoking a winter expedition scene.

Saving Northern Breed Dogs Through Sled Therapy

25 de mayo de 2025

Inside this Article:

Rescuing the Misunderstood—One Sled Ride at a Time
From Healing People to Healing Dogs
Sled Therapy: Restoring Purpose to Rescued Dogs
Arlo's Story: A Rescue That Rescued Back
More Than Just a Ride
How You Can Support Second Chance Mushers
Final Thoughts: Giving These Dogs a True Second Chance
Want More Heartfelt Pet Stories?

Rescuing the Misunderstood—One Sled Ride at a Time

In Traverse City, Michigan, a full-time nurse named Sarah Dobbrastine began an extraordinary journey. She founded Second Chance Mushers, a nonprofit organization that rescues and rehabilitates northern breed dogs—Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, and more.

Under the bright moonlight, a team of Husky sled dogs runs across a snowy landscape. They are pulling a sled, with an open snowy field ahead and distant trees and a lit house visible in the background.

These breeds are known for their energy and independence, but that very spirit often leads to them being misunderstood, surrendered to shelters, or even euthanized.

From Healing People to Healing Dogs

Sarah, a devoted animal lover, began to notice a troubling pattern in local shelters: many of the dogs being abandoned were northern breeds. Their intense exercise needs, loud vocalizations, and escape tendencies overwhelmed most pet owners.

In response, Sarah launched Second Chance Mushers—an organization that not only rescues and rehomes dogs but also gives them something they desperately need: a chance to run.

Her answer to healing these dogs? Harnessing their sled dog instincts.

Sled Therapy: Restoring Purpose to Rescued Dogs

Sarah began offering sled dog ride experiences to the public—not just as a fundraiser, but as a form of therapy for the dogs. Visitors can now book an unforgettable ride through the snow, powered by a team of once-abandoned dogs, via Second Chance Mushers' official booking page.

The excitement is palpable as the dogs bark and bounce at the starting line—but as soon as the sled begins to glide, they fall silent, focused, and at peace.

"When they’re running, you can feel them return to who they really are," Sarah says.

Arlo's Story: A Rescue That Rescued Back

Among the many dogs Sarah has saved, one stands out: a Husky named Arlo. He was surrendered multiple times due to severe anxiety and aggressive behavior. No shelter wanted to take him in again.

But Sarah didn’t give up. She spent months rebuilding Arlo’s confidence and helping him heal emotionally. Eventually, Arlo joined the sled team—and today, he's a guest favorite.

“I was heartbroken after losing my beloved Malakai,” Sarah shares. “But Arlo brought me back to life in ways I didn’t expect.”

More Than Just a Ride

A smiling woman takes a selfie inside a bus, surrounded by numerous Husky dogs of various fur colors. The dogs are either standing or lying down, appearing relaxed while traveling together.

Second Chance Mushers is more than a dog rescue and sled ride operation—it’s also an educational platform. Sarah frequently visits schools and local communities to teach people about the special care northern breeds require.

Their Facebook page and Instagram account are filled with heartwarming photos and videos—first snow experiences, shy dogs bravely joining their first sled run, and quiet moments of trust between humans and their furry teammates.

How You Can Support Second Chance Mushers

Second Chance Mushers is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that relies entirely on public donations and volunteers. Here’s how you can help:

Make a donation: Visit their donation page (PayPal, Venmo, and Cash App accepted).
Book a sled ride: Reserve your sled dog adventure here—a great experience for families, couples, or solo adventurers.
Follow and share: Spread awareness by following on Facebook and Instagram.
Volunteer: If you're in Michigan or available to help remotely, reach out through their website.

Final Thoughts: Giving These Dogs a True Second Chance

Not every northern breed is an ideal house pet—but every dog deserves a purpose, care, and belonging. At Second Chance Mushers, each sled ride represents not just exercise but redemption, confidence, and healing.

As Guideposts beautifully described in their article, these dogs are not only saved by the sled—they’re saved by understanding, patience, and love.

Let’s help them run toward a better future.