Description

The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is a premier sled dog race hosted in Northern Minnesota along the North Shore of Lake Superior during the last weekend of January each year. It is the longest sled dog race hosted in the lower 48 and the marathon distance race is a qualifying event for the Iditarod. The veterinary team that cares for the canine athletes during this race is made up of a group of 20+ experienced trail veterinarians and technicians who are responsible for the health and well-being of the upwards of 500 athletes that participate in this race. 

The veterinary team is excited to host one veterinary extern for the duration of the race to learn about trail medicine and the unique pathophysiology and medical needs of these extraordinary canine athletes. 

Position: Student Extern
Location: Duluth, MN to Grand Portage, MN 

Who: 

-  A fourth year veterinary student enrolled in an accredited DVM program 
-  A strong interest in sled dog medicine or sports medicine. 
-  No sled dog experience required. 

When: 
-  Race Week (In Duluth, MN) Jan 23rd-Jan 28th, 2026. 
-  The student will also have some required reading and lectures to watch prior to race weekend. Total expected time commitment is 2 weeks. 

Opportunities: 
-  To work closely with highly experienced trail veterinarians and technicians to care for all of the canine athletes participating in the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon. 
-  Learn about the unique physiological and medical needs of racing sled dogs. 
-  Perform physical examinations and assist in creating and implementing treatment plans as indicated throughout the duration of the race. 
-  Develop relationships with Musher’s of all skill levels and ages. 
-  Experience the beautiful North Shore of Minnesota. 
-  Student(s) will also have access to additional lectures and educational materials. 

Working Conditions/Other Requirements: 
-  Students must be comfortable working outside in cold and inclement weather conditions at all times of the day with an erratic sleep schedule while the race is underway. 
-  Students must be able to travel to Duluth, MN for the entirety of the race Jan 23rd-28th. 

What’s Included: 
-  Lodging and transportation throughout the entirety of the race. Some food will be supplied. 
-  Required reading, lectures and other educational materials. 

Interested students should fill out the application and send your CV/Resume to Dr. Nicole Kizer at nicole.kizer.dvm@gmail.com. Applications are due by November 15th, 2025. All applications will be reviewed and an extern chosen by November 30th, 2025. 

Interested in the 2027 race? You can apply now. Exact dates have not yet been determined. 

2026 application: https://forms.gle/5tkhbjeY6HhGjnnY6

2027 application: https://forms.gle/4L1Zb7boSwwp3pNt8

Requirements

-  A fourth year veterinary student enrolled in an accredited DVM program 
-  A strong interest in sled dog medicine or sports medicine. 
-  No sled dog experience required.