How to feed active dogs with VOM

Nina and Ola share their top feeding tips for active dogs

Nina W. Volle and Ola Martinsen are both experienced long-distance dog mushers with a lifelong passion for animals – and dogs in particular. Ola has trained dogs for both Robert Sørlie and Bjørnar Andersen, and made his debut For Nina, the germ of the dog handler passion was awakened in the Femundløpet already as an 18-year-old. early on through an aunt and uncle who were actively involved in dog sledding. At 19-year old she started on the dog sledding programme at Alta Folk High School, and has among anything else is shoplifting for Inger Marie Haaland.

In 2014 they found each other, and love blossomed immediately! Two years later became partners and established the kennel Lisjøen Husky. Since then they have continued to share the same passion – long-distance sled dog racing. Not least, established themselves well in the dog-mushing community where they have achieved good results, prestigious awards and titles in both the Femundløpet and the Finnmarksløpet. Their kennel also consists of a wire-haired pointing dog, Sjef, and a Jack Russell terrier, Lillemor. This has given them extensive experience within feeding, nutrition and dog ownership that they are more than happy to share further with all dog people.

Success on the trail starts with good nutrition
For all dogs regardless of breed and activity level, a balanced and correct diet is important. Sled dog racing is a sport that places high demands on both the physical and mental strength of the dogs. It is not just about building endurance, but also about developing musculature, a robust body and a strong immune system that can support the dogs throughout the entire season. To achieve this, a long-term focus on both training and the right diet is crucial. «We mainly feed VOM throughout the training and racing season to give the dogs the best starting point for competitions and races», Nina and Ola are telling.

Norwegian-made quality for active dogs
VOM is based on fresh, raw and natural animal ingredients that are minimally processed to preserve the beneficial nutrients. It is rich in fat and protein, which are essential nutrients especially for hard-working dogs, but also for the everyday dog. «On the dogs» menu is primarily meat from VOM, in combination with Kaisa dog food. The result is a glossy coat, strong paws, a good appetite, high performance, and smaller, firmer stools. The latter also makes it much easier to »clean up" the kennel., says Nina, smiling.»

Appetite and individual feeding
There are many factors that influence appetite on a daily basis and during high physical activity. To maintain a good appetite, it is important to establish good feeding routines, ensure variety in how the food is offered, and vary the tastes and textures to make meals more interesting. «Here we use the Active Original or Active with Salmon complete feed mixes throughout the whole season, and vary between serving it frozen or thawed. The amount is adapted to each individual dog's needs. Some need more energy than others, and it is important to know your own dogs well in order to adapt their feeding,» explains Ola.

Refuelling during a race
With increased activity and intensity during runs, the dogs' calorie requirements also increase considerably. It is important to use energy-rich products with high palatability to trigger their appetite. Along the trail, regular replenishment of nutrients is necessary to maintain energy levels. «Snacking plays an important role here. Both the Snackepølse product and VOM Boost provide a supply of quick energy. The meatballs from the Taste series are also a good choice for variety in flavour, which in turn helps to promote a good appetite. Snacks should be given frequently and only in small amounts, because dogs spend less time and energy chewing the pieces., Add Ola.

«When the dogs reach a checkpoint they are given clean water and a small »snack» for a quick energy boost while waiting for the main meal, allowing recovery to start immediately. Feeding at a checkpoint can consist of frozen or thawed VOM in the form of Active original with or without salmon. Our recommendation is to divide it into smaller portions instead of large ones. It is important that each individual gets enough nutrition, but absorption is better if the amount is distributed and at the same time the meals become more interesting to eat, points out Nina.

Photo: Carla Assuad

Why VOM, Nina and Ola?
«VOM is an ideal choice for mushers and other dog owners for several reasons. First and foremost because the products are Norwegian-made, making them both locally sourced and sustainable. VOM has extensive experience and has been on the market for many years, which makes us confident that our dogs get the nutrition required to perform at the level they do. The selection they offer includes both complete and complementary feed in various packaging, providing practical solutions whether you are training or participating in races. The products are also fortified with vitamins, and there is no need to add anything extra. The feed is also easy to adapt to the dogs» individual needs, so that you can give each dog the energy and nutrition it needs to perform at its best., Nina and Ola conclude in unison.

General feeding advice from Nina and Ola

Pay close attention to the feeding right from the puppy stage
It is important to feed correctly throughout the entire season, for both training and races
Vary the feeding to maintain a good appetite: different flavours, frozen or thawed, etc.
Do not give too much food at a time, but spread out the meals
Protein is important for building and repairing muscles, and fat is important as an energy source.
«Snacking on the go during a run for a quick energy boost. Give frequent/small, highly palatable pieces
Water plants! Establish good routines to ensure a good water intake regardless of application
Knowing one's dogs and knowing what each individual prefers and needs