Always keep in mind the safety of the children, the animals, and having a positive experience, which does not necessarily mean winning. But some of these kids have been on the sled since they were five. The rules say eight, but we keep it flexible. We have to know that the children are capable of handling the animals. We check to keep it safe and fun for the kids.
Someone tries to get a handle on their experience level.
One bad experience could spoil it for a child forever. A tangle or a fight would be too much for the kids to handle. You have to make sure the kids are safe out there. We are very good about watching each other, maybe use only one dog, an older dog. The communication in the club is really good about that.