The statue appeared to be well maintained. There were many sled dogs that helped to transport the life-saving serum. I believe that each and every sled dog that contributed should be individually honored! It's a shame that some of the sled dogs were tied to a sled and confined to a small area for exhibition! They should have had a better quality of life! Freedom to run! The best of food! Lots of love, tender loving care! The Iditarod isn't run over the original serum Run! Too many dogs are bred. They aren't well kept! A hundred years ago it was hard to provide for your family! Sled dogs were kept as part of the family. They were few in number. No one could afford to keep so many dogs !!! People cried when there wasn't enough food to feed their dogs! The dogs were counted upon to help! They were loved & treasured for the help that they gave! Dogs wore special coats to protect genitals, paws etc... Sled dogs were nurtured! Breeding was limited, as not every family could afford to raise puppies! They were allowed inside of homes, not tied up to a barrels by the hundreds! Iditarod racers should be limited to one litter( of puppies) per year or be disqualified from the race! They should learn to LOVE and appreciate EVERY single dog that they have! Keep only the best! All Sled dogs are special. Think about breeding and keeping the best sled dogs that you can! Carefully select the parents. I would then be proud of the Iditarod racers! Don't ever lose what made Balto and all of the other sled dogs GREAT DOGS! I hope that it's not gone yet! No more large kennels! Keep all of your current canine sled dog racers. Enjoy! Limit future breeding! Careful selection and nurtured dogs will recreate & honor the...
Read moreBalto is one of Central Park‘s greatest four – legged heroes. The small statue of a sleddog is popular among both adults (who know the story) and little kids who enjoy riding it for photos. In January 1925, the small Alaskan town of Nome suffered by diphtheria outbreak. The disease mostly struck children and was spreading very quickly. The illness could easily be contained with a certain antitoxin, but the town doctors were out of it, so it was threatening the lives of thousands within and out of the town. The best way to provide the required antitoxin was by dogsleds from Anchorage, but that was somewhat of a suicide mission due to the fact that it was in the peak of winter. The best options were the then – popular dogsleds. More than twenty sleds have ventured, and among them was Gunnar Kasson with his team leader Balto – an Alaskan malamute. Something of a race began, but it was the least between the sleds. They were racing with time, winter, and the disease. In the end Kasson and Balto were the first to reach their final destination. Kasson gave all the credit to his sled leader. They even toured the US as celebrities and were present when the statue in Central Park...
Read moreThe Balto Statue in Central Park is a beloved landmark and a touching tribute to the heroic sled dog who played a crucial role in the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska. Located near the entrance to the Central Park Zoo, the statue captures Balto's spirit and determination, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
The statue is beautifully crafted, showing Balto standing proudly on a rock, his gaze forward as if leading his team through the icy wilderness. The plaque at the base tells the story of Balto’s bravery, reminding everyone of the incredible journey that saved many lives during a diphtheria outbreak. The statue’s setting in the park is picturesque, surrounded by trees and offering a peaceful spot to pause and reflect.
For families with children, it’s a great spot to stop during a day out in Central Park. Kids love climbing on the statue, and parents can share the inspiring story behind it. The Balto Statue is more than just a piece of art; it’s a symbol of courage, teamwork, and the bond between humans and animals. Visiting this statue is a must for anyone who appreciates history, dogs, or simply wants to experience a piece of New York City’s...
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