CONDITIONS OF ENTRY

Barkfest is committed to promoting and advocating for the event to be a safe place for all. These Conditions of entry aim to ensure safety, hygiene, and enjoyment for both dogs and their owners and the general public who attend. Owners/Handlers are encouraged to consider whether their dog would enjoy this environment before attending.

General Entry Conditions

All dogs must be accompanied by a responsible adult handler (16+).
A max of two dog per responsible adult handler are permitted.
Dogs must be on a leash at all times unless in designated off-leash areas.
Handlers must clean up after their dogs – poop bags must be carried and used.
Dogs who display or are known to display aggressive behaviour towards people or dogs will be refused entry or asked to leave.
Dogs on heat are not permitted.
Dogs must comply with council & government muzzling & leash requirements where applicable to them.

Photography & Media

By attending the event, you consent to any photos or video taken during the event being used for Barkfest promotional purposes on social and mainstream media platforms.

Health & Safety

All dogs must be fully vaccinated
Dogs must be in good health and not in season (heat).
Dogs showing signs of illness (e.g. coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea) will be refused entry.
Humans enter at their own risk – organisers are not liable for injury, loss, or damage.

Behaviour Expectations

Handlers must be in control of their dogs at all times.
Handlers are discouraged from allowing on leash greetings.
No excessive barking or nuisance behaviour.
Children must be supervised closely around unfamiliar dogs.

Registration

Pre-registration may be required for crowd control.

Stall Holders

All Stall holders are required to be pre registered and approved by Event Organsiers. They must also agree to Stall Holder Terms and Conditions.

Dog Dash - Additional Terms and Conditions

These conditions apply to all participants (human and canine) in the Dog Dash at Barkfest, in addition to the general Barkfest Entry Terms & Conditions.

1. General Notes

The Dog Dash is fast, fun and exciting, with up to six dogs racing at the same time off lead. There is always risk.
For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, your dog must be highly socialised, have the appropriate temperament for this environment, regularly participate safely in off-lead environments with other dogs, and have a strong recall.
Please read the full Dog Dash Entry Terms & Conditions carefully before entering. By entering, you agree to comply with these conditions.
There are no on-the-day entries. We want everyone entering to have had time to consider whether the Dog Dash is right for their dog and to understand the Entry Terms & Conditions.
There will be a maximum of six dogs in each race, although we may reduce this number where required for safety. Depending on entry numbers, categories may run as straight finals or heats and finals. The top three dogs in each final receive a prize.

2. Categories & Eligibility
Dogs can only be entered and take part in one category only.
Dogs in heat are not permitted
Organisers reserve the right to not accept an entry without reason.
Entrants must enter their dog in the category that best reflects their size, build, and breed type, as outlined in the event descriptions.
Event organisers reserve the right to reallocate a dog to a more appropriate category to help ensure fair competition.
Dogs must be at least 6 months old, in good health, and up-to-date with vaccinations.

3. Fun First, Fair Always
The Dog Dash is designed as a light-hearted, community fun event — not a professional racing championship.
While every effort will be made to ensure a fair outcome, the organisers’ decision on race results, category placement, and any judges decision is final.

4. Dog Welfare & Safety

Dogs must remain under control at all times and be on a lead except when instructed to release them for the dash.
No harsh handling, shouting, or physical correction will be tolerated. Any behaviour deemed unsafe or distressing to a dog may result in disqualification.
Human Participation
Two people are required for each entry (both must be over the age of 10)— one at the start and one at the finish.
Humans must not run alongside the dog or interfere with other competitors.

5. Start & Finish Procedures

Dogs must start from the designated start zone and cross the finish line without being carried.
Treats, toys, or verbal encouragement are permitted, but no physical assistance may be given once the race has started.

6. Photography & Media

By entering, you consent to your name, your dog’s name, and any photos or video taken during the event being used for Barkfest promotional purposes.

7. Right to Refuse Entry

The organisers reserve the right to refuse or withdraw entry to any participant whose behaviour is unsafe, unsportsmanlike, or inconsistent with the spirit of the event.