Canicross Midlands – Dog Welfare Charter

1. Our Commitment

Canicross Midlands is dedicated to ensuring that every dog participating in canicross, bikejor, scooter, or related sleddog‑sport activities is treated with respect, kindness, and care. The welfare of the dog always comes first—above competition, training goals, or personal ambition.

This charter outlines the standards we expect all members to uphold.

2. Welfare Principles

All members agree to the following core principles:

• Dogs must be healthy, fit, and willing to participate

• Training and racing must be humane, positive, and welfare‑focused

• Dogs must never be pushed beyond their physical or emotional limits

• Handlers are responsible for their dog’s wellbeing at all times

• Welfare takes priority over performance

3. Health and Fitness

Members must ensure that:

• Dogs are in good physical condition before taking part in any activity

• Dogs are not worked if they are injured, unwell, or recovering from illness

• Dogs are appropriately conditioned for the distance and intensity of the session

• Puppies and young dogs only participate in age‑appropriate activities

• Dogs have access to fresh water before and after exercise

• Dogs are not run in extreme temperatures or unsafe weather conditions

If in doubt, the dog does not run.

4. Equipment and Safety

Members must:

• Use only safe, well‑fitting, and sport‑appropriate equipment

• Ensure harnesses do not restrict breathing or movement

• Use lines with appropriate bungee to reduce impact

• Maintain equipment in good condition

• Ensure dogs are transported safely and comfortably

• Follow all BSSF and club rules regarding temperature limits, trail safety, and equipment standards

5. Training and Handling

Members must:

• Use positive, reward‑based training methods

• Never use harsh handling, intimidation, or punishment

• Allow dogs to warm up and cool down properly

• Respect the dog’s pace, ability, and comfort level

• Avoid overtraining or repetitive strain

• Recognise signs of fatigue, stress, or discomfort

A dog’s refusal to run is always respected.

6. Behaviour and Social Interaction

Members must:

• Keep dogs under control at all times

• Be mindful of dogs who are nervous, reactive, or in training

• Use appropriate space and safe passing techniques

• Avoid forcing interactions between dogs

• Respect other handlers’ requests for space

• Ensure dogs are kept on lead unless explicitly instructed otherwise

7. Race and Event Welfare

At club sessions and events, members must:

• Follow all welfare‑related instructions from run leaders or officials

• Withdraw their dog if advised to do so

• Monitor their dog closely during and after activity

• Avoid running dogs in unsuitable conditions (heat, ice, poor trail footing)

• Provide adequate rest between runs

• Never prioritise competition over welfare

8. Responsible Ownership

Members must:

• Keep vaccinations, parasite control, and routine health care up to date

• Ensure dogs are microchipped and have ID tags as required by law

• Clean up after their dog at all times

• Transport dogs safely and legally

• Ensure dogs are not left unattended in vehicles or unsafe environments

9. Reporting Concerns

Members must:

• Report any welfare concerns to a run leader, the Club Welfare Officer, or a committee member

• Support a culture where welfare concerns can be raised without judgement

• Cooperate with welfare checks or investigations if required

The club may intervene if a dog’s welfare is at risk.

10. Our Shared Responsibility

By participating in Canicross Midlands activities, members agree to:

• Uphold this Dog Welfare Charter

• Prioritise the wellbeing of their dog above all else

• Promote a culture of kindness, respect, and responsible dog handling

Together, we ensure that sleddog sports remain safe, ethical, and enjoyable for every dog and handler.

Last Review Date 04-Jan-2026