Dogs on the Showground
Be Kind to your Dog: Guidelines for Dog Owners at the Suffolk Show
The Suffolk Agricultural Association has introduced a strict No Dog policy at the 2011 Suffolk Show and in the future. This is applicable to all dogs except Registered Assistance Dogs and those taking part in demonstrations and competitions.
It applies to the area within the perimeter of the Show, including public car parks.
Why can’t I bring my dog?
After much deliberation and discussion we have decided to ask people not to bring their dogs for welfare and hygiene reasons.
Show director David Nunn said:” It’s not that we don’t like dogs we do, and many of us are dog owners but it is our responsibility to be kind to them.
Eight hours is too long for dogs to be out at the Show in warm temperatures.
“Every year we have to remove dogs from our car parks that have been suffering in the heat and pick up dog excrement from around the public areas of the Show.”
“There is also a serious hygiene issue. With more areas of the Show being dedicated to food sites and picnic areas where families will sit and eat it is becoming increasingly hard for us to manage these sites that dogs are not able to enter. There will still be the popular dog classes and dog show so our canine friends will still have a significant presence at the Show.”
I have entered my dog in the Dog Show. Does that mean I have to leave instantly after the class?
No. The Dog Show area has been relocated in a self-contained area off Straight Road with its own entrance and car parking, tradestands, catering, toilets and other facilities. Only dogs registered for entry in the Dog Show will be admitted to the area. This runs separately, but at the same time, as the Suffolk Show and schedules will be available shortly from the Hon Secretary Mr Rodney Locksmith on 01473 747615.
If I am exhibiting in the Dog Show, do I need to buy a ticket to the Suffolk Show?
Yes. Your dog show ticket does not include access to anywhere else on the site except the dog show area.
What happens if I have entered my sheepdog for a display?
Dogs entered for displays will be permitted onto the show ground 30 minutes before the beginning of displays and must be removed immediately after the conclusion of the display. Entrants should ensure adequate accommodation can be provided for their dog.
I am a livestock/equine exhibitor and always bring the dog. Can I do so this year?
We would prefer if you were able to make alternative arrangements.
However, if you are parking in our livestock and equine vehicle parks and have the necessary facilities you may bring your dog but it must stay in the livestock/equine parking area at all times and not be taken into the main exhibition area of the Show. There are no exceptions.
What about Registered Assistance Dogs?
Registered assistance dogs are permitted.
Is there anywhere on the show ground that a member of the public can bring his/her dog?
No. The general public is not permitted to bring a dog onto the show ground or leave it in a car in the car parks. Visitors are advised to leave their dogs at home.
What will happen if I try to bring my dog?
Visitors who attempt to enter the car parks with a dog in a vehicle will be refused entry.
The risk in warm weather is greater than you think.
In warm weather, temperatures inside a car can be dangerously higher than those outside a vehicle, with the ability to soar to oven like temperatures of 120 degrees Fahrenheit within just six to ten minutes. If dogs are in cars in warm weather, even with windows ajar, they can quickly suffer from heatstroke and die in less than 20 minutes. Dogs are vulnerable and at risk during hot weather.
This is the Association’s policy.