I've always had fixed feelings about the Iditarod. After almost 50 years in Alaska, I've been aware of many, many issues. I was also raised by a cattleman who handled cattle totally differently from his neighbors. He hated rodeos and used to say: "Dammit, if I want to see folks beat up on cows, I'll just go to the neighbors, and they won't charge me for a ticket." 

My Dad believed in animal rights without using the word.

On the other hand, the uber-elitism, bad manners, hyperbole and downright lying of PETA makes me think that they are bad guys. I wouldn't put it past PETA to have set this up. They're sure as hell milking it.

And then there's the Iditarod Trail Committee. What a bunch of bozos! I believe that most mushers are in fact supporters of animal rights. Go Dallas.