Pingo & Sastrugi

These pups are two of seven who were born to Rattle and Blizzard at the Winter Journeys kennel on 16 May 2007

Pingo is named for a geologic term that describes a domed hill in northern regions. Pingos are formed when freezing water expands under thin permafrost. "Pingo" is a corruption of the Inuit word "pinguq."

Sastrugi is named for the wind-carved wave formations that develop in packed snow in exposed locations. The original Russian word is sometimes transliterated "zastrugi."

Our nephews helped out a lot with the crucial phases of the socialization of these pups.

Left to right: Patrick is holding Pingo, Nicky has Sastrugi, and Jonathan has their sister Devon (who is remaining with the Winter Journeys team).

It's tedious work, but someone has to do it.

Pingo at five weeks. At this age, they cease to resemble guinea pigs and start looking like baby dogs.

Sastrugi compares himself to Sabe and Zeb, the two other white dogs. At eleven weeks, he can still walk directly under Zeb without being noticed.

Like their wild ancestors, sled dog puppies develop strength, agility and physical discipline through rambunctious play. Watching (and listening to) them, it's easy to forget they're not wild.

As puppies are naturally endowed with an expression of sweet innocence, you'd never guess that Sastrugi is just taking a quick break from trying to destroy Andy's trousers.

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