Use of a thorough screening of mushers to determine that they have the necessary experience required to care for their dogs during the event. An experienced veterinary staff to monitor the dogs, advise mushers, and treat dropped dogs. The veterinary staff is not, however, a substitute for good care by mushers. Race judges who are experienced and can monitor the dogs' condition and are not reticent to demand better care. Veterinarians and judges should be empowered to pull dogs from the race and to demand longer rest periods for the dogs' benefit.
Mandatory rest stops at strategic locations.
These are beneficial to the dogs and allow veterinarians to thoroughly examine the teams. Other mandatory rest stops may be required at the musher's choice of location to best suit the team's needs. Recognition for exemplary dog care should be significant. There should be a written criteria before the race starts to encourage mushers to strive for such recognition. A liberal dropped dog policy that allows mushers to drop dogs at frequent locations.