Quote Originally Posted by sasvermont
Glacier, can a dog live on its own up there? It sounds as though Delta is having a good old time running the hills and fields. Is this typical of husky mixes? It almost sounds wonderful, to be a free spirit. I wonder where Delta is getting food? Do you think Delta is eating with other dogs, at their homes?

It must be so frustrating.

Delta, go home - be a good doggie!

Depends on the dog. A small, lap dog type wouldn't have a chance. If Delta can avoid the wolves, he's got a good chance. The wolves are really the only predator he needs to worry about. I'm not at all worried about his ability to cope with the elements. He has a phenomonal coat and is made for winter. There are lots of places he could find shelter like overhangs, fallen trees ect.

One thing working in Delta's favor is that he is essentially feral to start with. He has no use for humans and could survive without human contact. Doesn't work in my favor as it makes catching him even harder. I imagine that after 2 weeks on his own, he's lost any progress I'd made with socializing him.

There are places around where he could be stealing food; Houses, other mushers yards. He's also a pretty good hunter. He could easily catch mice and squirrels. The grouse are out right now. They are stupid birds and pretty easy prey. He could eat enough snow to keep himself somewhat hydrated.

Yes, this is very typical of huskies and husky-crosses. They have no recall. They've been bred for thousands of years to run as far and as fast as they can in front of the humans. They have no homing instinct.

It is frustrating, aggravating and profoundly depressing!

Thanks again everyone. I appreciate the on-going support.