Saturday morning. For thousands of us, it means one thing: parkrun. Over the years, my own relationship with parkrun has evolved dramatically, deeply intertwined with the lives, joys, and losses of my dogs.
I first tried parkrun years ago in 2012 to get some running experience for my dog, Treacle. But she found the whole environment entirely too much, so we stepped back. Years later, I returned on & off with my girl, Evelyn. As a canicrosser, we’d start right at the front, and she absolutely loved it.
When my local parkrun launched, I swapped over to running there. But as the years went on as Evelyn developed arthritis, I knew the hard concrete surface wasn't right for her joints. So, I switched to running with my boy, Rowan. He adored it. He had a magnificent time dodging squirrels, and together, we flew to my fastest-ever parkrun time of 20:36.
Years later, when Rowan was facing cancer, I took him out to parkrun to create a special, lasting memory together. It turned out to be the 20th of December—his very last day. I didn't know it would be his final day when we set out, but that morning spent doing what he loved remains one of my most precious, bittersweet memories.
When the rules changed and formal canicrossing was no longer allowed at parkrun, I was gutted. But rules are rules, so I adapted. I started running Evelyn in a running stroller. Let me tell you, stroller running is hard work! But we made it fun. I’d let her out for short stretches, and we always, always did a massive sprint finish together.
When Evelyn passed away very suddenly last year, the thought of going back to parkrun broke my heart. The routine was so tied up with her memory. But I wanted to honor her. Today, I get out there every single Saturday pushing my paraplegic dog, Bambi. It gets me out, it keeps me connected to the running community, and it keeps my dogs a part of my running life.
Because I’ve been in the parkrun throng in every iteration—caniecrossing at the front, navigating the middle, and now pushing a stroller from the side to stay out of the way—I see a lot. And it has brought me to a vital conclusion:
Just because you can parkrun with your dog, doesn't mean you should.
Is Your Dog Actually Enjoying It?
We are incredibly lucky that parkrun still allows dogs to participate on a short handheld lead. But parkrun is crowded, loud, and intense.
When I first started with Treacle, I recognized it overwhelmed her, so we stopped. Today, I see so many dogs stuck in the middle of a dense crowd of moving feet, looking entirely shut down or hyper-vigilant. If your dog is stressed, forcing them through a 5k isn't a fun weekend activity—it’s an ordeal.
The Hidden Dangers of the Wrong Gear
What breaks my heart most on Saturday mornings is seeing the equipment being used. I’ve seen people running dogs on slip leads, choke chains, or standard flat collars while the dog is pulling fiercely ahead.
I’ve actually had to stop and gently speak to a runner using a slip lead, pointing out that he was actively choking his dog. He truly hadn't realized.
This isn't just a matter of opinion; it’s a matter of canine anatomy and health:
The Danger of Collars: If a dog pulls against a collar while running, or if you suddenly trip and accidentally yank the lead, the forces applied to the neck are dangerous. Repeated neck compression from collars can cause glaucoma (due to increased intraocular pressure) and severe thyroid problems, not to mention tracheal damage.
The Right Solution: If your dog pulls at all, they must be in a non-restrictive, activity-driven Y-shaped harness. Not all Y-shaped harnesses are created equal. You need one designed specifically for free motion of the forelimbs and shoulders, ensuring their airway and joints are totally protected.
Ground Realities: Surfaces and Space
Beyond gear, we have to look at the environment. I stopped running Evelyn on our local course because the concrete was too unforgiving for her arthritic joints. As we move into warmer months, we also have to be fiercely protective of their paws on hot tarmac, and their ability to regulate their temperature.
Space matters, too. If you are running with a dog, you need to be hyper-aware of those around you. I’ve had freak accidents myself—a squirrel darted out, I couldn't catch the lead in time, and we tripped a lovely lady up (she was incredibly gracious about it having previously tripped someone up herself, and knew running accidents do happen!). Another time, someone tried to undertake us sharply and nearly tripped over my dog because they hadn't looked.
Because of this, I always recommend starting to the side of the throng, rather than deep in the crowd. Give your dog space to see, breathe, and move without being stepped on or startled.
A Plea to Fellow Parkrun Lovers
I love parkrun, and I love running with my dogs. I can’t see a time where I won't be running with a dog in a stroller now, because as a canicrosser, I know my dogs aren't built to run comfortably right at my side at pace on a short handheld lead.
If you choose to run with your dog on Saturdays, please look down at them. Are they happy? Are they safe? Do they have the right, non-restrictive harness to protect their body?
We have a responsibility to be our dogs' advocates. Let's make sure Saturday morning is just as much of a joy for them as it is for us.
As a medical doctor specialising in integrative health, essential oils, and animal behaviour, I offer tailored consultations designed to empower you and your beloved pets.
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Please remember: Information shared is for educational purposes and not a substitute for medical or veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for specific health concerns.