Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need to walk?
We are asking challengers to walk 99km in a month. However, depending on your fitness, feel free to change the target to an amount that suits you.
I took part in a previous Dogs Trust challenge - do I still have to register?
Welcome back and thank you so much for taking part again! It is great to have you onboard. We would ask that you register again so we know how many amazing dog lovers are taking part each month.
Can I start late or early?
Yes, absolutely! You can start and finish the 99K For Canines Challenge whenever you like! We know people are busy with work, families or maybe on holidays so if you need longer you can choose the month that suits you best! If you need longer than the month to complete 99km that’s no problem at all, you will still be in the group. Just stick [#99K{the relevant month}] at the end of your posts.
Can I walk more than 99km?
Of course. Setting a goal of 99km and then exceeding that goal would be fantastic! Many people will walk more than 99km.
Can my puppy take part in 99K For Canines?
Puppies have different exercise requirements to adult dogs. While puppies are growing, developing strength, stamina, and general fitness, it’s important to ensure they’re avoiding over-exertion, always benefiting from activity and enjoying it. Please seek advice from your vet if you are unsure how much exercise your puppy needs.
What is in the sponsorship pack?
- A Dogs Trust T-shirt
- An information booklet with tips
- FAQ’s
- A daily tracker
My friend wants to take part in Dogs Trust 99K For Canines Challenge with me?
How do I keep track of how much I have walked?
Use your smart phone. Most already have “Health” apps installed. Alternatively use apps like Strava, Runkeeper or Map My Walk. We will send you a paper km tracker too so you can tot up your daily kms!
How do I prove that I have walked the 99km?
Post pictures and updates on your fundraising page with your daily or weekly kms so we can see you’ve completed the challenge. It is also a great way to show your friends and family who have sponsored you that you’re committed!
For safety reasons, it is best not to share your walking routes - a note about your kms achieved is perfect! Everyone who completes the challenge will be sent a certificate of completion and a dog tag to place on your dog’s collar, so they can proudly show they completed the challenge and helped dogs find forever homes as wonderful as theirs.
Do I have to walk 99km all at once?
No, the great thing about this walking challenge is that you can spread the 99km of walking throughout the month! It averages about 3.5km a day! If you need longer, that’s no problem, do it at a pace that suits you.
Do I have to walk a dog to take part in the Challenge?
No, you can take part in Dogs Trust 99K For Canines Challenge with or without a dog!
When will I get my sponsorship pack and T-shirt?
As a charity with limited resources, it could take two weeks for your pack to be posted to you. Don't worry if it doesn't come right away, it will arrive this month. If your pack hasn’t arrived after 14 days, please message us or email fundraising@dogstrust.ie.
How will the money I have raised help Dogs Trust?
Taking part in events such as 99K For Canines raises vital funds which help stray and abandoned dogs across Ireland. Since opening our Rehoming Centre in 2009, dog lovers like you have rescued and rehomed over 21,000 dogs. We rely on public support to fund our work and we are entirely reliant on the generosity of amazing people like you to continue our life-saving work. Every single donation raised provides each dog that comes into our care with nutritious food, veterinary treatment, a microchip, vaccinations and most importantly, love and cuddles from our canine carers and a forever home.
