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Rules and Safety

Dog eligibility requirements
  • 2.5K Run/Walk: Dogs must be at least 4 months old. Up to 2 dogs per human allowed.
  • 5K Run/Walk: Dogs must be at least 6 months old. 1 dog per person maximum.
  • 9K Run: Dogs must be at least 12 months old. 1 dog per person maximum.

Aggressive dogs: All participating dogs must be well-socialized and non-aggressive toward both other dogs and humans. If your dog has a history of aggression or reactive behaviour, we kindly ask that you do not bring them to the event. Our on-site team reserves the right to remove any dog that shows signs of aggression.

Vaccination requirements

To participate in the K9 Run, all dogs must be up to date on vaccinations. Unvaccinated or visibly ill dogs will not be permitted to race.

  • Dogs under 6 months: Must have received all age-appropriate core vaccinations, and the final dose at least 2 weeks before race day.
  • Dogs over 6 months: Must be fully vaccinated, including rabies, and in good health. Proof of vaccination may be requested.
Leash & equipment guidelines
  • All dogs must wear a collar with ID tags at all times during the event.
  • Dogs participating in the 5K and 9K must wear a properly fitted harness (collars are not permitted for leash attachment in these distances). Harnesses reduce the risk of injury to your dog’s neck and spine during running. Collars are not allowed for leash attachment in these distances.
  • Dogs in the 2.5K may wear either a collar or a harness for leash attachment, but harnesses are recommended. 
By participating in the K9 Run, you agree to the following:
  1. You have read and will follow the dog eligibility, vaccination and equipment requirements, as well as the event rules and regulations.
  2. You confirm your dog is healthy and prepared to participate.
  3. You participate at your own risk.
  4. You understand that registration is non-refundable. This applies to all circumstances, including cancellations due to extreme weather, temperatures, or public health concerns.
  5. You will follow event rules, respect the shared trails, and keep your dog under control at all times.
  6. You will be disqualified if seen littering or not picking up after your dog.
  1. General Event Rules
    All participants must register through our official registration platform. Participants must check in before the race starts and wear their race bib visibly at all times. Start times must be respected. The event will take place rain or shine, unless extreme conditions arise.
  2. Participant Responsibilities
    Participants must be in good physical condition to complete their chosen distance. Participants must bring appropriate running gear and leash/harness equipment. Retractable leashes are not allowed. Use a fixed leash no longer than 6 feet.
    No aggressive dogs or dogs in heat will be allowed.
  3. Canine Welfare
    Dogs must be in good health and capable of running/walking their chosen distance.
    Water stations will be available, but owners are responsible for monitoring their dog’s comfort and hydration. If a dog shows signs of exhaustion, overheating, or injury, participants must stop and alert event staff or the on-site vet.
  4. Waiver of Liability
    By registering for and participating in the K9 Run, participants acknowledge that:
    Participation involves physical activity and carries risk of injury (to humans and/or dogs).
    You release the K9 Run organizers, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, and venue partners from any liability for injury, loss, or damage sustained during the event.
    You agree to accept full responsibility for your dog and your personal safety.
    You waive the right to any legal claims arising from participation.
  5. Media Consent
    By registering for the K9 Run, participants grant K9 Events permission to publish event-related content including photos, videos, and finishing times, and use any event photography or video footage for current and future marketing and promotional purposes, including social media, website, and print materials. The event will be filmed and photographed, so bring your best smile and energy to the course! 
  6. Refund & Cancellation Policy
    All registrations are final. No refunds will be issued for any reason, including illness, injury, change of plans, or cancellation due to unforeseen events (e.g., extreme weather, wildfires, public health concerns). The event may be rescheduled or modified at the organizer’s discretion.
  7. Code of Conduct
    Be kind and respectful to other participants, volunteers, and staff. Ensure your dog behaves appropriately around other dogs and people. Clean up after your dog! There will be ZERO tolerance for not picking up waste.
  8. Start Area Rules: To ensure a safe and smooth start for all participants, please exercise great caution at the starting line to prevent dog collisions. Keep your dog away from other teams and participants. Dogs must remain on a short leash until the team has exited the starting area.
    Inexperienced dogs should begin at the back of the field and avoid starting in lead positions.

 

Disqualification may result from any violation of the above rules. We reserve full discretion to alter, amend, or update the rules and regulations.