The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, a gruelling and controversial event, subjects countless sled dogs to extreme conditions every year. While some defend the race as a celebration of tradition and endurance, there are undeniable and well-documented ethical concerns surrounding the treatment and welfare of the dogs involved.

According to data compiled by Humane Mushing, the Iditarod continues to be associated with serious and preventable animal suffering. In 2024, three dogs died during the race and five more died during training leading up to it. In 2025, another dog death was recorded - that of a pregnant female. Over the decades, the cumulative toll is stark: at least 118 dogs have died in the Iditarod since its inception — with some watchdog groups estimating the total is even higher. These deaths occur from causes including aspiration pneumonia, internal injuries, exposure, and overexertion.

Beyond the animal-welfare crisis, serious misconduct has surfaced within the Iditarod community itself. In 2024, ProPublica revealed that the 2022 Iditarod champion, Brent Sass, had been accused of sexual assault by multiple women. Following these revelations, the Iditarod disqualified him from the 2024 race under its personal-conduct policy. These allegations underscore deep cultural and structural issues within the competitive mushing world and raise further ethical questions about the event’s leadership and oversight.

Additionally, in 2023, race champion Ryan Redington was filmed forcibly dragging and yanking visibly exhausted dogs who were attempting to lie down, as documented and released by PETA. The footage shows dogs in distress being compelled to continue against their physical limits — a clear illustration that welfare violations continue even at the sport’s highest levels.

Despite these alarming issues, the Hyatt corporation — through its subsidiary The Wildbirch Hotel (JdV by Hyatt) — has recently become a significant sponsor of the Iditarod. By continuing this sponsorship, Hyatt lends corporate credibility to an event repeatedly associated with animal deaths, dog abuse, and recently, serious allegations of sexual misconduct within its ranks.

A global brand like Hyatt should lead with integrity. Today’s consumers expect corporations to uphold humane, ethical standards and to distance themselves from practices that contribute to suffering or abuse. Continuing to support the Iditarod puts Hyatt at odds with growing public awareness of animal rights and exposes the company to reputational harm.

By withdrawing its sponsorship, Hyatt has an opportunity to stand decisively for animal welfare, ethical leadership, and corporate responsibility.

We urge Hyatt to reconsider its relationship with the Iditarod and to align its brand with values that protect animals, respect victims, and promote a more compassionate future.

Please join us in calling on Hyatt to make a humane and principled choice. Sign the petition urging Hyatt to withdraw its sponsorship of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race and help pave the way toward a kinder, more ethical world.