Alaska Dog Sports is a dog training facility dedicated to help you and your dog reach your training
03/19/2025
Lets you and I talk more about the Volcano in the room....
Preparing Your Dog for a Volcanic Ash Wipe-Down: Mt. Spurr Readiness
With Mt. Spurr showing signs of potential eruption, it’s crucial to prepare—not just for yourself, but for your dog as well. Volcanic ash can be abrasive and harmful, particularly to a dog’s eyes, nose, and paws. Training your dog for an ash wipe-down now can help reduce stress and keep them safe if an eruption occurs.
Why This Matters
• Volcanic ash is dangerous – it can cause respiratory issues, eye irritation, and discomfort if trapped in fur or paw pads.
• Wipe-downs will be necessary – removing ash after outdoor exposure will help protect your dog’s health.
• Stress levels will be high – practicing now helps your dog stay calm when it matters most.
How to Train Your Dog for an Ash Wipe-Down
1️⃣ Get Your Dog Comfortable with Handling
• Touch Desensitization: Gently handle your dog’s body, paws, and face, rewarding calm behavior.
• Paw & Face Handling: Since ash can irritate eyes and paw pads, practice gentle handling in these areas.
2️⃣ Introduce the Wiping Process Gradually
• Start Dry: Use a soft cloth to mimic the motion before introducing moisture.
• Damp Cloth First: Slowly increase wetness before transitioning to dog-safe wipes.
• Expand Coverage: Begin with small areas and build up to full-body wipe-downs.
3️⃣ Simulate a Full Wipe-Down Routine
• Use a Command: “Wipe-down time” or something else that you and your dogs can share that specifically signals what’s coming next.
• Wear Your Protective Gear: Get your dog used to seeing you in a mask and goggles.
• Practice in Different Settings: Indoors, outdoors, and during mild distractions.
4️⃣ Keep it Positive & Short
• Use High-Value Treats: Reward cooperation generously.
• Short Sessions Work Best: Frequent but brief practice sessions are ideal.
• End on a Good Note: Praise, play, or a treat helps reinforce positive experiences.
Emergency Prep for Mt. Spurr Ashfall
• Have an Emergency Kit Ready: Include dog-safe wipes, a towel, extra water, and protective gear.
• Designate a Safe Zone: A well-ventilated indoor area where you can clean your dog.
• Practice Drills Now: Rehearse the routine so it feels familiar when needed.
Final Tips
• Be patient – each dog adapts differently.
• Consult your vet for safe cleaning solutions.
• Act now – preparation reduces stress for both you and your dog if ashfall happens.
With Mt. Spurr’s activity increasing, now is the time to train and prepare. Your dog depends on you—let’s make sure they stay safe!
Hopefully it will "blow over" however to keep an eye on things like we do - you can visit www.avo.alaska.edu and keep tabs on all of the Vulcanic activity. This link may also be found on our web page www.akdogsports.com !
Slow eruption of lava in the summit crater of Great Sitkin Volcano likely continues. Seismicity was low over the past day. No unusual activity observed in satellite or web camera data over the past day.
