UK’s first Canicross qualification launched
The UK’s first qualification for Canicross – running cross country on trails and paths with dogs – has been launched to bring excellence and safety to the sport.
Canicross is growing in popularity in the UK as pet ownership increases and people look for new ways to exercise with their animals.
Emily Thomas, who runs the K9 Trail Time online store from Brockworth in Gloucestershire, and Dawn Crook-Richards who runs the longstanding CaniX UK race series realised that there was an urgent need for correct information, in order for people and their pets to stay safe.
The pair created Canicross Coach and contacted the awarding organisation iPET Network who supported them in writing the qualification course in Canicross coaching, so that more people can benefit from best practice and the experience of others.
Thomas said: “With the course it means that there is now a standard for all teaching, which means that in the UK we get the best sport possible.
“The course is designed to give people the in-depth knowledge that they need before they start, and includes elements such as risk assessing for events, and canine first aid. All of these things I wish I had known when I began, and it’s wonderful to be able to pass on the knowledge.”
She added: “We have taken everything from a dog-centered approach, welfare of the dogs comes first and foremost in everything that we teach, and keeping the dogs safe at all times.”
Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty, founder of iPET Network, said: “As well as our pet professionals, it is important to consider the welfare and safety of animals taking part in sports or exercise. So to have best practice available in this way is wonderful for the sport of Canicross.”
