DogFest Terms & Conditions

Please familiarise yourself with these guidelines before attending DogFest with your pup!

Just like you, nothing is more important to us at Dogfest than the health and welfare of every dog attending. The event is about fun but also about promoting responsible dog ownership, please follow these guidelines.

Ensure you are familiar with the restricted breeds legislation - it is your responsibility as the owner of these breeds or any any cross breed to adhere to laws and legislation: https://www.ispca.ie/Control_of_Dogs_Regulations_1998

Ensure your dog(s) are transported in a safe secure environment. Following the ISPCA guidelines on travelling with your dog  - https://www.ispca.ie/news/detail/please_dont_leave_your_dog_in_the_car

Never leave your dog unattended in the car. Even if the weather might feel ok, it only takes a few minutes for the temperature to become dangerously hot. If we see any dogs locked or left in vehicles in unsuitable conditions, our staff may need to seek assistance and Gardai maybe called to assist. https://www.ispca.ie/news/detail/please_dont_leave_your_dog_in_the_car

Always have fresh water in your car and bring some into the event with you. There will be water points around the event that will refilled regularly.

Is your dog well socialised with other dogs or strangers? If not, or it is anxious/ fearful around other dogs or people then please don’t bring it this event as they won’t enjoy it.

The event will be busy and if that’s not the sort of place they enjoy, it might not be right for them.

Dogs must be kept on their lead unless it’s in a designated off-lead play area. These will be clearly signposted.

How’s your dog’s health? If it’s getting old or struggling to walk very far, consider whether it’s appropriate to attend. However there will be plenty of places to rest and relax.

Bitches in season are not permitted to attend.

Legally, dogs should be microchipped and have a collar with a tag displaying their owner’s name and contact details. Ideally a phone number in case of emergencies.

Please ensure your dog is up to date with any required vaccinations.

If your dog is unwell or suffering with any medical conditions that may be passed onto other dog’s they should definitely not be attending.

Keep an eye on the weather. Make sure you and your dog are properly prepared for a day out. We’ll have lots of water to keep them hydrated plus shaded areas to relax in. This especially applies to certain breeds. What your dog can cope with will depend on their age, breed, health and conditions on the day. Some dogs are more prone than others, e.g. those who are old, young, overweight, with thick coats or with short faces such as Pugs and French Bulldogs. 

If you want your dog to take part in our ‘activities’, it’s your responsibility to ensure they are fit and able enough. Please don’t force your dog to do things it doesn’t want to. Not all dogs will enjoy all the activities.

Not all dogs like water and may become stressed in the event of being placed in the pool. Dogs that only go swimming regularly should join such activities . 

Make sure you clean up after your dog. Failing to pick up is irresponsible and potentially dangerous to young children and other animals. Carry plenty of bags, bins will be available at the venue.

Be careful what you drop on the floor and in particular certain foods that are poisonous to dogs such as chocolate or onions. Please do enjoy the lovely food and drink on offer but use the bins provided. 

Extendable dog leads aren’t a good idea. Everything gets tangled up. Dogs are also much more difficult to control if they are 20 feet out in front!

Anyone seen mistreating their dog or handling it poorly will be immediately asked to leave.

Dogs should not be dressed up in costumes all day. Such costumes should only be applied just before the “Dress Your Dog’ homemade costume Fashion Show. Make sure that their costumes are not uncomfortable, hot or restrictive.

The welfare of your dog and their behaviour is your responsibility and they must not be left unattended at any time.