21: Summer Start Time Policy

SUMMER START TIME POLICY

During the hottest and wettest months of October, November, December, January, February and March, or any period of excessive temperatures or rainfall, Clubs are encouraged to not start their Events prior to 4:00pm.

If Clubs still wish to start their Shows before 4:00pm, it is expected that they will take all reasonable measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all dogs, exhibitors, Judges and all workers at the Event.

Measures to consider are to include, but are not limited to, the following;

a. The provision of adequate shaded areas for sun and rain; b. Consideration of earlier Start Times to take advantage of cooler temperatures earlier in the day; and c. Structure Events efficiently to allow dogs and exhibitors to be in the ring and assembly areas for the minimum amount of time.

Clubs may also wish to consider a temperature ceiling – e.g. 35 degrees Celsius (refer to the Heat and Extreme Weather Policy – Appendix 11). This would be a set temperature at which all Clubs must be even more vigilant and also be prepared to suspend the Event if necessary until the temperature has decreased to allow more comfortable showing conditions.

All exhibitors are also asked to be more aware of their dogs during this period and any other period of excessive heat and monitor them and the temperature more closely than usual.

Different breeds react more adversely to the heat and exhibitors must be prepared to withdraw their dogs from the Event should they deem the heat to be a safety issue. Above all else, the welfare of the dog should be paramount at all times.