We aren't the only ones preparing for ski season. A few weeks ago our Avalanche Dogs had a day of training and testing at Utah Olympic Park. Teams from throughout northern Utah descended upon the UOP to allow the dogs to socialize, undergo obedience testing and perform "hot load" training with AirMed.
In the morning, the Avalanche dogs were asked to perform a series of commands and basic obedience skills. Passing this test allows the patrol and avalanche dog team to be eligible for another season of work. Next was practicing a "hot-load" into the AirMed helicopters. A "hot-load" means the handler and dog must load a helicopter while it is still running. This practice allows the avalanche dogs to become comfortable around a running helicopter, something that makes most humans uncomfortable, but allows a quicker and safer search in the backcountry. After the "hot-load", dogs were taken on a short flight! Our newest member of the Park City avalanche dog team, Tremper, was a huge fan of flying in the helicopter and even wanted to stick his nose out the window. What a brave puppy!
The day ended with allowing the dogs to swim in the UOP freestyle training pool. Some even jumped off the ramps!
For more information on this training day and additional photos, please visit Wasatch Backcountry Rescue.
<
>
<
>
Zeke waiting for his turn to load the chopper.Andy VanHouten
Can't wait for the season! Thanks for helping protect visitors to Park City, it goes a long way in helping everyone promote Park City as a beautiful, safe family vacation haven!
- Jim
— Posted by
Park City Jimon December 1, 2011 12:58 PM MST
Andy has skied the Park City area for 20 years, and is excited to finally be a full-time PC resident and call Park City Mountain Resort his home mountain.
Originally from the Pocono’s of Pennsylvania, Travis found his way to Park City three years ago and is now our grooming manager. When not in snowcat you can find him skiing or snowmobiling in the Utah backcountry or enjoying the skiing here at Park City Mountain Resort.
Rough year this year so far. You have had your work cut out for you!
— Posted by Ben Fisher on February 25, 2012 12:12 AM MST
Can't wait for the season! Thanks for helping protect visitors to Park City, it goes a long way in helping everyone promote Park City as a beautiful, safe family vacation haven!
- Jim
— Posted by Park City Jim on December 1, 2011 12:58 PM MST
Nice work dawgs. Sooo happy that it's winter again. How I hate summer..... See you pups on the snow in 2 weeks.
— Posted by Belle Starr on November 7, 2011 5:31 PM MST