100 dogs, one family’s mission: Inside Park City’s unique sled dog sanctuary

PARK CITY, Utah — At Luna Lobos Dog Sledding, the tour begins long before sleds hit the trails. It starts with stories of resilience, a connection to heritage, and a deep commitment to the dogs that call this sanctuary home. This family-owned business, nestled in Browns Canyon, offers a dog sledding experience, combining adventure, compassion, and artistry.

Founder Fernando Ramirez, raised in Park City, started dog sledding in the early 1990s with a yellow Labrador pulling a makeshift sled. His journey began with a stroke of serendipity when his parents found a professional racing sled at a garage sale. “It was $40,” Ramirez recounted, “but it was actually worth about $800. That sled changed everything for me.”

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Ramirez’s mother set one condition: all dogs had to be rescues. “She said, ‘We’re going to train them, and they’re going to have a purpose,’” he recalled. Today, that principle remains the heart of Rancho Luna Lobos. The ranch is home to over 100 dogs, with 75% coming from shelters or owner surrenders.

A Family and a Pack

Fernando and his wife, Dana, live on the ranch with their five children. “This is more than a business,” Dana said. “It’s our home, family, and way of life.” Their children are already immersed in the art of dog sledding. Gabriel, 14, and Noah, 12, race competitively, while younger siblings Josiah, 10, and Hazelle, 8, are eager to follow in their footsteps.

“This is a family tradition,” Fernando said. “I’m passing down the art of mushing to my kids, just as my family passed down their ranching traditions to me.”

Fernando’s great-grandfather, a legendary horseman in Mexico, has inspired his approach to working with animals. “He was so skilled, they wrote corridos—folk songs—about him,” Fernando said. “His method was hands-off and based on trust. That’s what I strive for with our dogs.”

Listening to Dogs, Not Whispering

Rancho Luna Lobos’ approach sets it apart in the world of mushing. “We don’t see ourselves as dog whisperers,” Fernando explained. “We’re dog listeners. Listening is how we build trust, respect, and a relationship with each dog.”

For Fernando, this philosophy extends to every interaction. “When I look at a dog, I look into their soul,” he said. “Even if I’m just cleaning kennels, I’ll stop and check on a dog that seems quiet. It’s about understanding what they’re feeling and what they need.”

This philosophy has transformed the lives of countless dogs. Take Humberto, a blind dog who was initially deemed unsuitable for sledding. “We put him in the back of the team, paired him with a steady dog named Ketchup,” Fernando recalled. “He learned quickly, outpaced his partner, and eventually became a lead dog. It was incredible to watch.”

A Haven for Rescues

Rancho Luna Lobos serves as a sanctuary for northern breeds that often struggle to find homes. “People see these striking blue-eyed dogs and think they’re perfect pets,” Dana said. “But they’re high-energy and need purpose. When they don’t get it, they end up in shelters—or worse.”

The couple has heard heartbreaking stories of abandonment. “People would leave dogs in our yard with a note,” Dana said. “We even had to put up a gate because it was happening so often.”

One such rescue, Zoe, a malamute, arrived with a history of abuse and fear of humans. “She was labeled aggressive,” Dana shared. “But she was just scared. It took five years of patience and love for her to trust people and join the sled team.”

The ranch doesn’t only rehabilitate dogs with troubled pasts. It also cares for dogs grieving the loss of their families. “We see dogs from good homes struggle with depression after being surrendered,” Dana explained. “It’s our job to help them find joy again.”

The Art and Sport of Mushing

For the Ramirez family, dog sledding is more than a sport—it’s an art form. “Every time we step on the runners, it’s like painting on a canvas,” Fernando said. “The trail becomes a story, and the dogs are the brushstrokes.”

Fernando’s competitive achievements speak to his skill as a musher. He has raced in prestigious events, including the International Pedigree Stage Stop Race and the World Championships in Sweden. “Representing Team USA was surreal,” he said. “Standing on the runners with my team on another continent—it was humbling.”

Yet, the Ramirez family emphasizes teamwork over competition. “You can’t let the dogs do all the work,” Fernando shared. “Mushing is about partnership. You help your dogs, and they help you.”

A Unique Experience

Visitors to Rancho Luna Lobos don’t just go on a tour—they become part of the pack. “When you come here, you’re welcomed into our home,” Dana said. “You meet the dogs, hear their stories, and see how much they love what they do.”

Guests often marvel at the care and attention given to each dog. “Our dogs are dogs first, sled dogs second,” Dana emphasized. “Their well-being always comes first.”

The ranch’s kennels are more than functional—they’re designed for comfort. “Each cottage is heated, air-conditioned, and furnished,” Dana said. “The dogs even have Netflix and Disney Plus. They love watching TV!”

A Legacy of Compassion

Rancho Luna Lobos tours support the care of their dogs and the operation of the ranch. For Fernando and Dana, every sled ride represents their commitment to giving these dogs a second chance. “It’s not just about the thrill of the ride,” Fernando said. “It’s about honoring the bond we share with these incredible animals.”

As guests leave the ranch, they take more than memories of a sled ride through snow-covered trails or a Dry-land Tour or hike with the dogs. They leave inspired by the resilience of the dogs and the passion of a family dedicated to their care.

For more information, visit Luna Lobos Dog Sledding.

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