Most furs know that Balto was a real dog and that the Iditarod Dog Race recreates the transport of drugs to Nome by dogsled. Most probably do not know what happened to Balto and his teammates afterwards. They were given heroes' welcomes, and then were put into a traveling show where they were largely mistreated. Fortunately, Cleveland school children and municipal leaders eventually came to their aid, and they ended their days in Cleveland in relative comfort.

When Balto passed away, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History had him mounted. Eighty years after his heroic run, Balto remains prominently displayed and loved by Clevelanders.

SHAMELESS PLUG: I am putting a children's book and small plushie of Balto into the Mephit Furmeet Charity Auction in September. Proceeds go to help big cats in need at Tiger haven.