UltiMutt Race Regulations & FAQs
RULES:
- Each participant may only run 1 dog at a time in the race.
- Dogs must be leashed at all times.
- LEASHES: To reduce risk of injury to your dog, we recommend clipping to a dog's harness, instead of a collar. (Pro Tip: A hands-free leash helps you get through obstacles.) Retractable leashes are highly discouraged. Leashes that loop around a dog's mouth are prohibited because dogs need an open mouth to pant, cool down, and get adequate oxygen when exercising.
- Dogs must be at least 1 year old on race day.
- Dogs must be up to date on all vaccinations (Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella), veterinary check-ups, be free from any health-related issues such as:
complications of old age, joint pain, injury, and must be medically cleared by a veterinarian to compete in the UltiMutt Race. *Vet records will not be required at registration table, however, we recommend having a photo of them on your phone handy in the case there arises any issue. - Dogs must be regularly socialized and comfortable around unfamiliar people and dogs. If you are unsure how your dog will react in a crowd, please err on the side of caution and do not bring him to the event and risk him being uncomfortable. For questions about socializing your dog, please consult your veterinarian.
- CHILDREN up to Age 11 must race with an adult who's in charge of the dog. Children Ages 12+ are permitted to enter the race by themselves with or without a dog.
- SQUAT PENALTY: Competitive Wave racers, if you or your dog cannot complete an obstacle you must move to the side of the course and perform 30 squats before moving forward. For Fun Runners, completing the 30 squats is optional. If you are racing in a wheelchair, or otherwise unable to perform squats, we will accept 30 tricep dips.
- AWARDS: We award a trophy and the coveted title of UltiMutt Champion to the Top Male, Female, & Non-Binary Finisher w/ dog with the fastest time while having completed all the obstacles/30 squat penalty.
FAQS:
- Can I race without a dog? Absolutely! We understand your need to be in the company of canines.
- I’m not in the best shape, can I still race? UltiMutt offers competitive and fun run waves to suit all fitness levels.
- Whats the difference between the Competitive & Fun Run? Competitive racers are timed and have a chance to win UltiMutt Champion. To skip an obstacle they must perform 30 squats. Fun Runners are the exact same course/obstacles, and may skip any obstacle with no penalty.
- What do I get if I win? A trophy, coveted title of UltiMutt Champion, you & your dog's photo and bio featured on UltiMutt Race for the year.
- What do I get when I participate? Each participant receives a finisher medal, an iron-on patch unique to the year, free race photos, and full access to Noble Dog Fest.
- Is the event safe for my dog? The safety and happiness of all dogs is of utmost importance to our organization. All obstacles have been designed and tested by dog agility professionals to ensure proper function for dog and human teams to complete.
- Is my dog safe and healthy for the event? All dogs must be at least 1 year old, up to date on all vaccinations(Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella), must not have any health issues, sicknesses, limitations resulting from old age, and must not have any history/sign of aggression or nervousness. Any sign of aggression or nervousness or any medical record revealing a lapse in vaccination will result in an automatic disqualification from current and any future UltiMutt events without refund. For the safety of other racers, if a dog is a disturbance to other racers, UltiMutt Staff reserve the right to request your immediate removal of the dog from the event premises.
- I’m not sure how my dog will act around other dogs, should I bring him? If your dog has never been around unfamiliar dogs, you can’t be certain how he will react and it is best not to risk making him uncomfortable or causing an issue for other racers. For information on socializing your dog or determining whether your dog is comfortable around other dogs, please consult your veterinarian.
- How do I weigh my dog? Step on a weight scale and record your weight. Holding your dog in your arms, step on the scale again and record the new weight. Subtract the two weights and the difference is your dog’s weight.
- I don’t want to participate in the race, can I still help fundraise? Um…ABSOLUTELY! You can raise money individually or start a team. Just click our fundraising link here to get started. Donate to Greenville County Animal Care
- How can I be a volunteer? Caring and reliable volunteers are essential to our events. Volunteers receive special swag. Need volunteer hours for credit? We can provide documentation upon request. For more information about volunteering or to register, click here. Become an UltiMutt Volunteer!
- How will the race be timed? The Competitive Wave is chip timed from your race bib. The time is calculated based upon when you individually cross the start line and finish line. We release 5 dog/owner teams every minute to allow for comfortable racing.