The International Federation of Sleddog Sports has welcomed organisations from Colombia and Malta as new members ©IFSS

The International Federation of Sleddog Sports (IFSS) has welcomed two new members and updated its rules in relation to racing.

The two new members of the IFSS are the Colombian Federation of Canine Sports and Malta Sport's cynological organisation, which specialises in the study of matters related to canines and domestic dogs.

Both applications were reviewed by the IFSS's Membership Committee before being confirmed by the full IFSS Council.

Meanwhile the IFSS has updated its race rules ahead of its forthcoming season.

The International Federation of Sleddog Sports has announced an update to its rules of racing ahead of the 2020-21 season ©Getty Images
The International Federation of Sleddog Sports has announced an update to its rules of racing ahead of the 2020-21 season ©Getty Images

The update is in relation to the age of dogs participating in competitions.

Under the new rules all dogs now have to be 18 months old to participate in a competition.

This change has been made based on the recommendations of the IFSS Animal Health and Welfare Committee and consultation with vets.

According to the IFSS calendar, the 2020-21 season is scheduled to begin in September with a World Cup event in Russia.