One of the more rapidly growing sports in the dog fancy is carting, also known as draft work.  Carting is a dog sport or activity, in which a dog pulls a cart filled with supplies, such as farm goods or firewood, but sometimes pulling people.  Carting as a sport is also known as dry-land mushing and is practiced often to keep winter sled dogs in competition form during the off-season. Whether you wish to participate in competition or just  for fun, it’s a great way to exercise your dog and have fun with the entire family. 

In 2008 the NESBC was presented with its first club cart, donated by the Theodore "Chick" Szymkuc memorial fund which was hand crafted by Andy Meszaro of the Newfoundland Club of New England.   On March 8, 2009 the club was presented with it's second cart, donated by the Ed Poor Memorial fund.  This will allow more club members to participate in carting.  Thanks Andy!

What is a Draft Test?

A draft test consists of a series of exercises designed to demonstrate teamwork skills in a work capacity involving hauling. The performance of these exercises is intended to exhibit skills resulting from both natural ability and training that are applicable to realistic work situations. Dogs must be willing to work with their handlers and the exercise must be accomplished efficiently. The goal of each handler is to maintain control while encouraging their dog's natural independence: together they demonstrate teamwork. Since a dog can perform draft work only in cooperation with a person, each handler must demonstrate an understanding of draft work with the dog's ability, training and equipment.