ANIMAL WELFARE
Just like you, nothing is more important to DogFest than the health and welfare of every dog attending. DogFest is about fun but also about promoting responsible dog ownership so please follow these guidelines.
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Prohibited Equipment: Shock Collars & Aversive Devices
For the safety and wellbeing of all dogs attending DogFest, the following aversive training devices are strictly prohibited on site – shock collars, prong collars, choke collars, spray collars and ultrasonic deterrents.
Anyone found using or in possession of such equipment will be refused entry to the event. If any such devices are spotted during the show, the individual and their dog will be immediately ejected from the event grounds.
DogFest promotes only positive, force-free training and handling methods. Thank you for helping us ensure a safe and happy environment for all dogs and attendees.
- For your dog’s safety and comfort, please use a harness, a dog guard, or a carrier during your journey to DogFest. It’s a simple consideration that can make a big difference to their wellbeing as advised by vets and major charities.
- Remember to bring plenty of water for your furry friend! It’s always a good idea to have a water bowl in your car and to bring some extra water with you to the event. We’ll also have water stations set up throughout the event where you can easily refill your dog’s water bowl.
- Please never leave your dog unattended in the car, even for a short time. Temperatures can rise quickly, even on mild days, and this can be extremely dangerous for your dog. If we see a dog in a car that appears to be in distress, we may need to take steps to ensure their safety, which could include removing them from the vehicle. Please help us keep your furry friend safe.
- We understand that your dog might enjoy the breeze, but it’s not safe for them to hang their head out of the car window. This also applies if you’re driving a convertible. Please keep them secure and safe during the journey.
- If your dog isn’t feeling well or seems to be experiencing any health problems during the event, please make your way to our dedicated animal welfare tent on-site, clearly marked on the map, where our team can assist you and your furry friend.
- For humans, if you are feeling unwell, please find a member of the DogFest team or check the site map for the First Aid Tent or Organiser�s Office.
- The show will be busy and if that’s the sort of place that makes your dog feel overwhelmed, it might be better to leave them at home and join your human friends at DogFest instead.
- To ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment, please keep your dog on a leash at all times.
- If your senior dog has trouble walking long distances, please consider whether attending the event would be enjoyable for them. Please make use of the shaded areas and resting spots for them to relax in.
- For the comfort and wellbeing of all dogs, we kindly request that you do not bring your female dog to the event if she is in heat. If your dog does come into heat while at the event, please remove her from the site immediately.
- For your dog’s safety and your peace of mind, please make sure they’re wearing a collar with an ID tag. The tag should include your name and a current phone number. This is a legal requirement and helps us reunite you with your dog if they get lost.
- To ensure the health and safety of all dogs, please make sure your furry friend is up to date on their annual vaccinations.
- Before you arrive, please check the weather forecast. Make sure you and your dog are prepared for the day’s conditions. We’ll have plenty of water and shaded areas for your dog to stay cool.
- Remember, every dog is different. Factors like age, breed, weight, coat type, and health conditions can affect how well they tolerate the weather. Breeds with short faces (like Pugs and French Bulldogs) and those on certain medications may be more at risk in hot weather. Find more information about keeping your dog safe in hot weather on the RSPCA website
- If you’d like your dog to participate in our ‘Have-A-Go’ activities, please make sure they’re up for it! Never pressure your dog to do something they’re uncomfortable with. Remember, some dogs might try hard because of their natural instincts, even if it’s not the best for them.
- Let’s keep our event clean and safe! Please always clean up after your dog. Leaving dog waste behind is irresponsible and can pose a health risk to children and other animals.
- Bring plenty of poop bags with you, and please dispose of them responsibly in the bins provided throughout the festival.
- For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, please avoid using extendable leads. They can easily get tangled, and it’s much harder to control your dog when they’re far away.
- Enjoy the delicious food and drinks available at DogFest! Please be mindful of what you drop on the ground, especially foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate and onions. Use the bins provided to dispose of any litter. Please do not bring any glass onto the festival site. It could break and harm precious paws.
- You are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of your dog at all times. Please do not leave your dog unattended at any point during the event. If your dog has any specific needs or requirements, please consider these carefully before attending. We have an onsite vet who will answer any questions you may have.
- In England and Wales, ear cropping and tail docking are illegal under the Animal Welfare Act (2006) because they can cause unnecessary suffering. While dogs with these procedures cannot participate in the Fun Dog Show, they are welcome to enjoy the event with their families. We understand that these procedures may have occurred before the current legislation, and we want to ensure all dogs feel welcome, as long as they are happy and comfortable.
