05/22/2026
Some of the best ideas really do come from early morning walks in the woods with your four-legged partner. Just ask Cpl. Phil Brower (), whose time on the trails with K9 Monte helped inspire what would become Iron Dog.
After Spike’s K9 Fund vested Monte in 2019, Phil was inspired to give back to the mission that helped protect his partner. He founded Iron Dog as a fun challenge for K9 teams, and over the years, it has grown into something special. Military, law enforcement, and now SAR handlers have shown up with their dogs to run, work, push through the course, and support K9s beyond the finish line.
Because of Iron Dog, Phil has helped us raise over $100K for working dogs, helping provide lifesaving protection, care, and training through Spike’s K9 Fund programs. Monte remains part of that story. Today, Phil runs the course with his new partner, Budd, all in memory of Monte, and each dog reached by this event helps carry that legacy forward.
Phil, thank you for creating an event with so much heart, grit, and humor, and for building a community that continues to protect dogs and handlers long after the course ends.
Spike’s Pack, join us in thanking Cpl. Phil Brower! 🦾🐺❤️
