Comment: I'm surprised someone else has dared to question dog racing . After watching dog racing in Alaska for around 60 years , I feel it's time to end long distance dog racing . Short races like the Rondy don't hurt dogs. Long races are animal abuse pure and simple.  The original long distance dog run was meant to save human lives . Today it's only run so humans can win fame , cash , and a new Dodge pick-up . Animals by they're very nature seek shelter when outside conditions are bad . Humans force these dogs to run through the night in sub-zero weather and through blizzards just to win. One infamous winner smoked pot while on the trail , feeling great and no pain as he forced his dogs to keep going---all to win cash and a new truck . How many dogs have to die before we end this animal abuse ?  Long distance dog racing should be ended just as dog fighting was ended . PETA needs to come to Alaska and protest the ceremonial start to let the world know about this animal abuse . End the Iditarod.