Cani-x

“Can I run with my dog?”. This is the second most asked question I get after “do you not do races at weekends?”. So I’ve decided to take the plunge – we’ll be allowing cani-x (or cannicross if you prefer) at some of our events, some of the time – baby steps! Much of this is driven by the constant questioning, and a change in insurers meaning we’re no longer prevented from allowing dogs, however there was a slight moment of enlightenment too!

Completely unplanned I did 10 miles of a 15 mile race tethered to someone else’s dog and loved it! I guess I finally understood the fun of cani-x, even more so if it’s your dog. I also saw at this event that the dogs weren’t an organisational issue either. I had been looking in to the do’s and don’t of cani-x before and have Cat from C&M Canicross to thank for an incredibly helpful document she had put together for me. Both of these things together has made me take the plunge to trial allowing dogs.

Now, anyone who has spoken to me for more than 5 minutes will know I’m not really a “dog person”. However, I’ve seen enough cani-x runners to know that the dogs are more professional and focussed than most of our runners!! Despite that, I’ve put in some rules and guidelines that need to be followed. It is imperative that runners, with and without dogs, and my volunteer team, can enjoy the events as well. I don’t think they’re onerous and should keep everyone safe and happy. They may be a barrier to you brining your dog along. I apologise if that’s the case but these are the rules for the moment.

As with all things Big Bear nothing is set in stone. If it works really well then that is great and we’ll continue to allow dogs are certain events during the cooler months of the year. If there are issues we may have to tweak it or stop it completely. As with all of these things it’s about being sensible and thinking of those around you. We always have the greatest bunch of runners at our events so I’d hope your dogs are the same!

Events with this mark on are (obviously!) cani-x friendly!