And Susan's husband, Dave Monsen, is a musher also, and her two young daughters may have something to do with the dogs as well. Susan has not been well for some time, so the dogs are already familiar with the handler who has been with them.
A lot of people cared about her and her family.
Links to a website about Susan Butcher as well as articles about her may be found at ktuu.com or adn.com -- local tv station and newspaper.
mj