How to feed active dogs with VOM

Nina and Ola share their best feeding tips for active dogs

Nina W. Vollen and Ola Martinsen are both experienced long-distance dog sled drivers. with a lifelong passion for animals – and especially dogs. Ola has trained the dogs for both Robert Sørlie and Bjørnar Andersen, and made his debut She took part in the Femundløpet as early as the age of 18. For Nina, the spark for dog sledding was ignited. Early on, through an aunt and uncle who were actively involved in dog sledding. As a 19-year-old…At the age of 16, she began the dog sledding course at Alta Folkehøyskole, and has among Annet was a good handler for Inger Marie Haaland.

In 2014 they found each other, and love blossomed immediately! Two years later ble de samboere and established the kennel Lisjøen Husky. Since then they have continued to They share the same passion – long-distance dog sledding. Not least, they have established themselves. good in the dog sledding community where they have achieved good placings and won awards and titles in both the Femundløpet and the Finnmarksløpet. Their kennel also consists of a wire-haired pointing griffin, Sjef and a Jack Russell terrier, Lillemor. It has given them extensive experience in feeding, nutrition and Dog-related content that they are more than happy to share with all dog lovers.

Success in skiing starts with good nutrition.
For all dogs, regardless of breed or activity level, a balanced and proper diet is important. Dog sledding is a sport that places great demands on the dogs' physical and mental strength. It's not just about building endurance, but also about developing muscle, 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 a proper diet is crucial. «"We primarily feed with VOM throughout the training and racing season to give the dogs the best possible start for competitions and races.", Nina and Ola tell the future.

Norwegian-produced quality for active dogs
VOM is based on fresh, raw and natural animal ingredients, which 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, combined with Kaisa dog food. The result is a shiny coat, strong paws, a good appetite, high performance, and smaller, firmer stools. The latter also makes it much easier to 'clean up' in the kennel., says Nina and smiles.“

Appetite and individual feeding
There are many factors that affect appetite on a daily basis and during periods of high physical activity. To maintain a good appetite, it is important to establish good feeding routines, ensure variety in how food is presented, and vary flavours and textures to make meals more interesting. «"Here we use the Active Original or Active with Salmon complete food mixes throughout the season, varying between serving them frozen or thawed. The amount is adjusted to each individual dog's needs. Some need more energy than others, and it's important to know your own dogs well in order to be able to adjust their feeding," explains Ola.

Refueling during a run
With increased activity and intensity during running, the dogs' calorie requirements also increase considerably. It is important to use high-energy products with excellent palatability to stimulate their appetite. Along the course, regular nutritional refuelling is necessary to maintain their energy levels. «Snacking plays an important role here. Both the product 'Snackepølse' and 'VOM Boost' provide a quick energy boost. 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 often and only in small amounts, because the dogs spend less time and energy chewing the pieces., Ola suggests.

«When the dogs reach the checkpoint, they get clean water and a small "snack" for a quick energy boost in anticipation of the main meal, while recovery can begin immediately. Feeding at the checkpoint can consist of frozen or thawed VOM in the form of Active Original with or without salmon. Our recommendation is to divide into smaller portions instead of large ones. It is important that each individual gets enough nutrition, but absorption is better if the amount is spread out, and the meals are also more interesting to eat., Nina points out.

Photo: Carla Assuad

Why VOM, Nina and Ola?
«"VOM is an ideal choice for dog sled drivers and other dog owners for several reasons. First and foremost because the products are Norwegian-produced, which makes them both locally sourced and sustainable. VOM has a long history and has been on the market for many years, which gives us confidence that our dogs receive the nutrition they need to perform at the level they do. The range they offer includes both complete and supplementary feeds in various pack sizes, providing practical solutions whether you are training or competing in races. The products are also vitamin-fortified, so there's no need to add anything extra. The food is also easy to adapt to the dogs' individual needs, so 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

Be careful with the feeding from the puppy stage.
It is important to feed properly throughout the season, for both training and races.
Variety to maintain a good appetite: different flavours, frozen or thawed, etc.
Don't give too much food at once, but spread out the meals.
Protein is important for building and repairing muscles, fat is important as an energy source.
«Snacks during exercise to replenish energy quickly. Give often in small, highly flavoursome bites.
Water won! Establish good routines to ensure a good water intake, whatever the activity.
Know their dogs and know what each one prefers and needs.