Drop off registration forms at either:
Chuckanut Valley Veterinary Clinic
896 North Burlington Boulevard
Burlington, WA 98233
Fairhaven Runners, Bellingham or FootwoRx, Mount Vernon
To print a copy of the entry form, please click here. Please submit your entry form along with payment made payable to Dog Day Dash.
Additional registration on-site day of race: Registration time is 8:30 am to 9:30 am.
Fee Schedule
| Entry Date | Registration | 5k Fun Run | 5k Fun Walk |
| Through July 19 | Early Bird | $25 | $25 |
| July 20 through August 19 | In person or Day of Race | $30 | $30 |
| Entry fees are non-refundable. |
| Without Dog Day Dash T-shirt prices for Run/Walk is $20. |
*Pledge forms are also available for those interested in collecting donations for the registration fee for their walk/run. Additional donations are greatly appreciated. Please contact an event coordinator at 757-3722 for more information.*
Risks: As with most sports, this event involves a number of inherent risks, including but not limited to tripping and falling, contact with other participants or spectators, the effects of weather, traffic, and terrain conditions. All participants need to be prepared to avoid obstacles and traffic when applicable. In submitting your entry, you are acknowledging your awareness and assumption of all risks associated with your participation. You are certifying that you are medically and physically fit to compete in this event safely.
Entrants choosing to violate these safety conditions pose a danger to all participants. Persons found in violation of these safety rules will be disqualified and removed from the course.
Canine Qualifiers: Your canine vaccines must be current. Required vaccines include: rabies, parvovirus, ITB (kennel cough), and distemper. Puppies should have their boosters.
Only one dog per runner/walker.
No aggressive dogs or dogs in season will be allowed.
All dogs need to be under control and properly leashed with a leash not to exceed eight feet in length.
There is to be no inhumane treatment or dragging of dogs. We recommend dogs who have adjusted to leash-walking participate.
Dogs under the age of six months are discouraged from participating.
Clean-up services include waste receptacles throughout the route. All waste, both human and canine, must be placed in the provided receptacles. All participants must comply with local ordinances and postings by The Port of Skagit.
Children: All children age twelve and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Proceeds for Benefit: Proceeds from the event will be going directly to a local animal rescue organization, S.P.O.T. (Saving Pets One at a Time) and Guide Dogs of the Desert International whom provide guide dogs for the visually impaired. This event promises to be a great way to bring our community together to promote both canine and human health.
Race Day Information:
Directions: From Interstate 5, take the Chuckanut Drive Interchange, Exit #231. Proceed west on Josh Wilson Road. Turn left onto Higgins Airport Way and follow signs to the Dog Day Dash!
Weather: Race will occur rain or shine. Come prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Washington weather is very unpredictable. We recommend you check the weather report for Skagit County as race day nears.
Parking: Free parking is available in designated parking areas. You are responsible for your own vehicle and its contents.
Water / Aid Stations: You will find water stations throughout the course. Basic first aid supplies will also be available at the start, half-way and end stations. Portable toilets will also be stationed along the course.
Photographs: On your registration form please note you acknowledge, by signing, that your picture may be taken during the race by local news agencies and may be used for public relations for future races.
Lil' Critters Pet Photography will be available before and after the race for those choosing to have their pets and their human's photographed. They specialize in making high quality portraiture of pets and their owners. They feature instant viewing of the photos on a computer screen for ordering and customizing. All costs associated with the photo session are the responsibility of those wishing to be photographed. Be sure and stop by their both at this years Dog Day Dash. In advance of the race, you can visit them at www.lilcritters.com or contact them at 1-206-366-8322 to answer any questions you may have.
Awards Ceremony: The awards ceremony will be following the race. Awards not picked up on race day will be mailed to the address indicated on your registration form. Certificates of Completion will be handed out at the check-out station for both the 5k Fun Run & Walk.
Prizes: By random drawing, using your participant number, you will be eligible to receive prizes supplied by our Dog Day Dash sponsors. You do not need to be present to win. All winners of prizes not picked up on race day will be notified and may pick-up their prize at Chuckanut Valley Veterinary Clinic located at 896 North Burlington Boulevard, Burlington, Washington during normal business hours.
Race Results: All results and general outcome of the Dog Day Dash will be posted on the website of our main sponsor Chuckanut Valley Veterinary Clinic. Be sure and view at www.chuckanutvet.com.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Q: Can I register the day of the race?
A: Yes. Registration the morning of the race will be from 8:30 am to 9:30 am.
Q: Do I get a t-shirt with my entry or do I have to pay extra for it?
A: As stated in the registration brochure, your race day packet will include a short sleeved t-shirt, in the size you have indicated. (This applies to those age 13 and older). Please note that exchanges will not be available.
Additional t-shirts will be available for sale on race day.
Q: Where do I park?
A: There will be free parking in designated areas near the start line. You will be directed the morning of the race.
Q: What happens if I am unable to participate in the event after I register?
A: Sorry, there are no refunds.
Q: Who is the event benefiting?
A: Proceeds of the event will be going directly to a local animal rescue organization, S.P.O.T. (Saving Pets One at a Time) and to the Guide Dogs of the Desert International whom provide guide dogs for the visually impaired.
Q: Do I have to participate with a Dog?
A: No.
Q: How hilly is the course?
A: The majority of the course is flat.
Q: Where can I sign up to volunteer?
A: You may contact an event coordinator at Chuckanut Valley Veterinary Clinic. They may be reached at 360-757-3722.
Q: What time does the race start?
A: The 5k fun run and 5k fun walk both begin promptly at 10:00 am.
Q: Do you give awards to walkers?
A: Each walking participant will receive a certificate of completion.
Q: Can I pick up my race day packet prior to the race?
A: Sorry, all packets will be available at check-in.
Q: What is the weather going to be like?
A: Race will occur rain or shine. We recommend that you check the weather report for the race day so you are comfortably dressed for all types of weather.
Q: Who do I make my check payable to?
A: Dog Day Dash.
Q: I don't want to be photographed. Can you please not photograph me?
A: No. When signing your entry form, you are granting permission for us to photograph you and your canine companion. We will not be able to single any one person from the photos.
Q: Can my child participate?
A: Yes. Children age twelve and younger must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Q: Will there be t-shirts available for those under age 12?
A: Yes, but on a first come first serve basis for a cost of $15.
Q: Can I bring both of my dogs?
A: No. Only one dog per walker/runner is allowed.
Running with Rover
By, Dr. Beth Scheenstra
I have been an avid runner most of my life. Running has provided me a great outlet for tension relief, and served as a fabulous way to keep my pets healthy. Over my years of running, I have had a dozen or more running partners but it is undeniable that my dogs (Cookie and Tahoe) are the absolute best training partners. As spring arrives many people take up exercise programs with a vengeance. Before you decide to take Fido in tow consider the following points:
Before including your dog in any fitness activity, they should be examined by a veterinarian. The exam should include a thorough check of the animal's heart and lungs, joints and ligaments. Beware of genetic defects, such as hip or elbow dysplasia.
Consider your dog's age and breed before including them in your fitness program. All dogs are not created equal. The ideal running dog is medium-built, weighs 40 to 70 pounds and has short light hair. Avoid large dogs like Great Danes and small dogs like Chihuahuas, since their body proportions do not favor distance running. Avoid also the engineered breeds. The breathing system of Bulldogs is ill-developed and does not permit intense aerobic activity.
Puppies should not run long distances. Wait until the dog is 2 years old to begin intense distance training. Between 6 months and 1 year one can take their dog on half a mile to a mile every other day. As their endurance increases training can be increased 10 percent each week. Give the dog a day off for every day of running. And always stopping if the young dogs appears painful, or does not want to continue.
Once you and your vet have agreed on a suitable diet and fitness program for your dog, keep the following points in mind while you exercise.
Start slowly, increasing the length and intensity of the workout over a few weeks. Include your dog in your warm-up and cool down routine.
Keep the dog on a leash when running on public roads and trails. It is safer for everyone, and it is the law in many areas. A 6-foot leash held in your hand, never tie the leash to your arm, or a bicycle.
Keep the dog visible to traffic. At night, use a reflective dog harness, a reflective tape the length of the leash and/or flashing lights around the collar.
Train your dog to obey you and ignore distractions. A simple jerk on the leash should bring the dog back to your left side.
Respect the heat. Dogs do not sweat. They dissipate heat through their paws and mouths. Long haired like Chows and Collies have more difficulty in the heat. Plan your running route to allow drinking stops, and let the dog run through puddles.
Watch the paws carefully. Dogs do not have the luxury of carbon rubber outsoles. Check the paws before and after every run for any cuts or abrasions.
Run on a soft surface. The best running surfaces for dogs are grass fields and dirt trails. Concrete and hot asphalt impair a dog's ability to dissipate heat through the paws. At the other extreme, frozen roads, ice and salt are harmful to the paws.
Be certain your dog is wearing current, traceable identification just in case you become separated.
By following these suggestions you will enjoy a long partnership with your canine training partner. And as you head out the door with your new partner you can be comforted by the fact that your new partner will be comforted by the fact that they are always ready to run, and won't even mind if you choose the route. Furthermore, they will never criticize your running form, speed or attire. Enjoy the run!
If you have more questions or concerns don't hesitate to call Dr. Scheenstra at 360-757-3722 or send an e-mail to info@chuckanutvet.com.
