We adore dogs but our ultras are long-distance, human-centred events. Our races are not canicross events. If you do want to run with your dog, and the welfare of our furry friends is our utmost consideration you must make sure you can adhere to strict welfare rules:
• The dog and handler must be experienced at running the same distance as the event you are entering
• The dog must be over two years oldÂ
• The dog must be of a suitable breed/type (for example, not short legged or brachycephalic) and of healthy weight
• An appropriate canicross-style harness, shock-absorbing lead and waistbelt must be used, and dogs must remain attached to their owner while running
• The handler must carry sufficient food and water for the dog for the entire event
• The handler must have safety and emergency equipment for the dog, including first aid dressings and boots
• The dog must not be made to carry any items
• The handler must pick up after the dog and carry the poo bags until they can dispose of them in domestic waste after the race, not in checkpoints
• The weather on the day must be safe, with no weather warning and temperature not exceeding 16 degrees Celsius.
If you are thinking about running with your dog, you must be aware that this is not a canicross event, and there is no veterinary provision nor safety monitoring. You must plan what you will do if your dog suffers an emergency on the route, and how you will get them to an out-of-hours vet as the handler is solely responsible for the safety and welfare of the dog.