When Did the Last Dogs Disappear from Antarctica? 0 9

This step marked the end of a long-standing tradition of using them in polar expeditions and logistics. The document signed by the countries participating in the treaty introduced a ban on the introduction of non-native species into the fragile ecosystem of Antarctica to prevent the spread of diseases such as canine distemper among the local fauna — seals and penguins — and to avoid disrupting food chains.

The farewell to the last team of sled dogs was an emotional event for the polar community. It symbolized the transition from an era of heroic but invasive methods of exploring the continent to modern, more environmentally responsible scientific activities based on the use of mechanized transport. The Protocol on Environmental Protection is considered one of the strictest and most successful environmental agreements in the world.