The Evolution of my Snowmobile Dog

Doc on one of his many backcountry trips.

Subjective:

Those who have met my dog Doc, know that he is happiest when accompanying his owner on adventures. I believe this stems from his being abandoned and found as a stray before my ex-wife and I rescued him from the Moscow Idaho Humane Society during my first year of medical school. He had a healing presence from the beginning and became a de facto mascot for our class, hence the name "Doc."

Doc dreaming of winter adventures with his owner.

With plans to create a winter wilderness medicine course in the remote backcountry of Idaho, I acquired a couple of used snowmobiles. Doc naturally felt a little left out, as he was left behind to dream of squirrels and such. But having known this incredible hound for close to 5 years, I knew he would want to go if I could engineer something.

I did some googling but found little on the subject. Most just recommended leaving the pooch at home or transporting them in a dog crate (which would crimp his style). So to the drawing board...

Problem 1: How to dress your dog to make the journey safe and comfortable?

I can tell you that Doc was not into the hipster hat and scarf look. He was willing to rock the doggles and in fact did not mind them especially when traveling at 50 mph over the frigid winterscape. After much reading and scanning of reviews, I settled on the DogHelios snowsuit/jacket for its windproof and insulated design. Though a little self conscious in his outfit, Doc accepted it as it allowed him to travel with me in comfort while still providing access to essential doggy functions (peeing, pooping, playing ball and digging/rolling in the snow).

Problem 2: How to transport and secure your dog while snowmobiling?

This too proved to be an evolution. I built the original "Doc Box" out of scrap 2x4 and 1/2" plywood. I painted it with a truck bedliner for a non-slip surface and improved durability. A little bacon went a long way to convince Doc that this was a good idea. I set up an anchor point off the snowmobile tunnel lift bar, which I secured his harness too. Success!

The following year I made a few modifications:

• Removed snowmobile seat to allow for box to be secured farther forward and closer to center of gravity.

• Cut box down for less weight and more streamlined design

• Added chin rest for Doc/seat for me

• Screwed in closed eye lags for ski and gun case attachments

All said and done, this project gave both Doc and I quite a lot of joy and many good memories. He was particularly pleased and proud to be a participant of the first FMRI Wilderness Medicine at Burgdorf in Jan 2017. See the objective for a few specific safety considerations.

Success, the first FMRI wilderness medicine course at Burgdorf Hot Springs, Idaho.

Objective:

The number one thing to remember with winter backcountry travel and snowmobiling is safety. This goes for you and your pooch. Having the right gear, training and awareness for danger (hypothermia, avalanche...) will keep you both enjoying the snow, season after season. Just like training your dog for hunting, preparing your dog for snowmobile travel should take place in graduated fashion with lots of treats and reassurance. Obviously if you want to ride aggressively then leave fido at home. Locations like Burgdorf are ideal for this type of trip because you can leave the dog in the cabin while you hit the powder and then return to a well rested and warm dog.

Schweitzer enjoying the Idaho powder, sorry Doc.

• Location: Anywhere with snow. Burgdorf is obviously a great location.

• Season: Nov/Dec-Apr

• License: Most States require snowpark permits, check with local authorities or snowmobile clubs

• Required gear: Snowmobile, helmet, winter clothes, shovel, avalanche probe and beacon. (And a buddy, avoid snowmobiling alone).

• How to videos:

Assessment:

If done safely, sharing the backcountry with your pooch leads to some incredible memories and a toastier night sleep. Travel safe and often.

Plan

• Burgdorf Hot Springs, a phenomenal place for this type of adventure and the Mother Lode for Idaho Hygge. See you there!

• Cheap Thrills Rentals in McCall, ID. Full service snowmobile rental company that will get you out to Burgdorf for a reasonable price. Owners and staff are professional and kind.

• Doggles work well given their design. Available here

• DogHelios jackets/snow suits. Doc tested and approved!

• Black Diamond avalanche kit (beacon, probe, shovel). This is what I use.

• Avalanche air bags do reduce trauma and fatalities. I use BCA Float.

References:

1. NA

-Andrew Schweitzer MD