LAUREL - Even with the most well-behaved dogs, there's a chance for a few surprises when they are exposed to 200 children.

But the surprise was on the Montana Mushers human handlers Tuesday when they visited Laurel Middle School.

The team owners, Harry and Lela Schlitz, thought they were at the school for one of their frequent visits to teach students about teamwork and other skills that can be learned through their three sled dogs.

When the team's introduction video ended, a slide came up on the screen that read "Laurel Middle School life skills surprise."

The life skills class presented the Schlitzes with a $1,000 check. The money is to help offset recent medical expenses for one of their dogs, Su. The Alaskan malamute is "a famous reader dog" who visits classes, said teacher Kara McDonald.

Lela Schlitz retired a few years ago from West Elementary School in Laurel but returned to work as an aide after Su tore the anterior cruciate ligament in her rear leg and required surgery.

"This is to get Lela back into retirement," McDonald said.

Lela Schlitz grinned while the presentation was made and Harry Schlitz, hands to his face in amazement, blew a huge kiss to the room full of fifth-and sixth-graders.

The LMS life skills class teaches eligible children life and social skills. Among their projects is a snack cart that is rolled out twice a day to make sales to the fifth-sixth and seventh-eighth grade students. They also earned enough money this school year to purchase two new classroom computers, adopt a family during the holidays and buy classroom supplies, McDonald said.

The Schlitzes have had the Montana Mushers business for 17 years. They visit schools, hospitals and libraries around the nation, and often in the Laurel and Billings areas. The dogs interact with children and adults in pet therapy roles, including autistic children, and serve as models of hard-working, enthusiastic and loyal friends.

Lela Schlitz's portion of the program focuses on the importance of reading. She has written a book, "Pixie: Sled Dog of Snow Park."

Pixie and Sorrel, are Alaskan huskies that were adopted after the dogs "retired" from patrol duties in Denali National Park.