Even with our best intentions, it became impossible to maintain the same level of daily training and activity for all the dogs. That’s when the idea for “Quarantine Buddy” was born. We invited the people of Tromsø to borrow one of our huskies during the quarantine period and take them on walks and outdoor adventures.
The response was completely overwhelming. In just two days, we received more than 400 emails from people wanting to borrow a dog, and within two weeks we had lent out over 150 huskies to caring local families and individuals. Suddenly, Tromsø and the surrounding areas were full of people being pulled along by our energetic sled dogs — quite a sight in the city streets and hiking trails.
As the pandemic continued, “Quarantine Buddy” slowly developed into “Borrow a Buddy.” With tourism still uncertain and fewer employees at the kennel, we made the difficult but necessary decision to reduce the number of dogs for their long-term wellbeing.
Many people had formed a strong bond with the dogs they borrowed, and we realised there was an opportunity to create something positive for everyone involved. Over the following two years, we found loving retirement homes for more than 100 older sled dogs.
How it’s going today
Today, around 200 dogs still live at Villmarkssenter. We continue the “Borrow a Buddy” programme during the summer months, when the dog sledding season is over and the dogs can enjoy a slower pace of life outside the kennel.
The programme is mainly intended for older and more mature dogs, usually around 7 years and older. Spending time outside the dog yard helps them adjust to life as future family dogs and gives them the chance to enjoy new surroundings, routines, and adventures.
Our younger sled dogs still have many active years ahead of them, and life together in the kennel remains the best environment for their training, energy, and social life.
If you are interested in borrowing a four-legged friend, feel free to send us an email.
dogs@villmarkssenter.no
Please note
When the COVID-19 pandemic affected tourism in Tromsø, we made the decision to reduce the number of dogs at the kennel. Through our “Borrow a Buddy” and “Adopt, Don’t Shop” initiatives, we found loving retirement homes for more than 100 older sled dogs.
Today, around 200 Alaskan huskies still live at Villmarkssenter and continue to be part of everyday life in the dog yard.