The Challenge
The Dog Sled Expedition Challenge is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the ultimate test of your endurance. This is your chance to spend five days sledding through the rolling highlands and deep forests of Lapland! The challenge will cover approximately 270km as you journey from Norway to Sweden passing through wild and untouched nature. You will be camping in secluded cabins and tents along the way, and caring for your own pack of sled dogs. Your final destination will be the world-famous ice hotel in Jukkasjärvi.
The adventure starts in Tromso, where you will meet your local guides. Together, you will drive to the Dog Shed Centre and meet your new pawsome companions - high-spirited Huskies who will be in your care on this epic trek. As well as meeting your companions you will stay the first night at the Dog Sled Centre in a traditional lavvu (a large static tent). The lavvu will have a roaring fire to keep you warm and you will sleep on natural reindeer skins to keep you extra comfy. The next morning the challenge begins as you and your furry companions under the direction of your guide set off on this ultimate test of endurance as you set off on your 270km trek.
Full training is given so the only requirement to take part in this challenge is a thirst for extreme adventure and a desire to make a lifelong difference to a child with autism. This is a challenge in the truest sense of the word and will be a real test of your endurance. Remember, you will be on your feet for the majority of the day and will participate in all aspects of camp life including feeding, bedding, and preparing the dogs, putting up and taking down tents, and cooking for camp using the stoves and equipment provided and making hot drinks!
The Requirements
Participants will be asked to set a fundraising target of €10,000ea and will need to raise a minimum of €7,000 to participate in this challenge. There is a €350 registration fee to secure your place. Only 15 places are available for the March 2023 Expedition, secure yours now!
The Dog Sled Expedition Challenge allows you to experience daily life in Lapland as you tend to your team of dogs and watch the Northern Lights (if you’re lucky!)... A truly unforgettable experience awaits you and your support will open up a whole new world of opportunity for a child with autism.
Meet some of our PAWsome participants...
Donal Hunt, owner of Assistance Dog Quest
"In July 2021, Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland reopened the waiting list and we were one of the lucky ones to secure an assistance dog for our son. He is an incredible 7 year old who is fun, happy and super smart. However, our kid is a flight risk, and lacks a sense of danger.
Michelle Lang, volunteer Puppy Fosterer
"We have been fostering puppies for AADI charity for just over a year and a half. The work carried out by the charity and these remarkable dogs have a such a positive impact on children with autism and their families. Rex, pictured left, was our very first puppy who graduated in June this year,
Rex is now placed with a family and we have received lovely updates from AADI on how Rex is helping his child reach his potential in his everyday life. At the moment, I'm caring for Timber, a gorgeous 8-month-old Golden Retriever. As a puppy fosterer, I will train Timber in basic obedience training and help socialise him by taking him on public transport, shopping trips, and visits to parks and cinemas. Whatever we do as a family, Timber will now be a part of it!"
