Dalmatian Club of Canada is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and improving the rapidly growing sport of Trail & Road Trial. These Trail & Road Trial Rules were created for the purpose of sanctioning Canadian Trail & Road Trials under a uniform system of judging.

Our primary objectives are:

• To stimulate greater interest in the breeding of sound dogs, possessing stamina and hardiness.
• To instruct the proper methods of conditioning dogs for Trail & Road Trial.
• To encourage good dog ownership and to demonstrate the best methods of caring for dogs during and after long rides without the aid of artificial methods or stimulants.
• To co-ordinate Trail & Road Trials in Canada.

Trail & Road Trial Purpose

   The purpose of the original Road Trial was to demonstrate the use of pure-bred Dalmatians as a companion of man in the role that they have been bred to perform. The Dalmatian standard states that the Dalmatian "should be capable of great endurance, combined with a fair amount of speed", qualities essential to his successful use as a horse/rider or horse/coach escort. The Dalmatian Road Trial is a means of determining the degree to which these qualities are present in the breed.
   Trail & Road Trials demonstrate any dog's ability to behave in public places, in the presence of horses and other dogs, in a manner that will reflect credit on the dogs.
   All entrants are required to work their dogs over an identical course in the same length of time, thereby having a basis of fair comparison for determining the dog's obedience, speed, and condition.
   Judging is based upon each dog starting the Trail & Road Trial with 800 points, evaluated as follows:

Obedience:

Recall            100 points
Hock             100 points
Distraction  100 points
Stay               100 points

Speed                      100 points

Timed Distance:   300 points

   Trail & Road Trials are sport, and all participants should be guided by the principles of good sportsmanship at all times.

1.1 Sanctioned Trials
   Dalmatian Club of Canada sanction must be obtained in order for entrants to be eligible for awards, trophies and certificates of participation.

1.2 Trial Classification

A) Trail Companion (TR.C) - consists of 19 to 22 kilometres (12 to 14 miles) at a minimum average speed of 6.5 kilometres per hour and a maximum average speed of 8.5 kilometres per hour (4.1 to 5.4 miles per hour).
B) Trail Companion Excellent (TR.CX) - consists of 39 to 42 kilometres (24 to 26 miles) at a minimum average speed of 6.5 kilometres per hour and a maximum average speed of 8.5 kilometres per hour (4.1 to5.4 miles per hour.)

   It is necessary for a dog to earn a Trail Companion title before being eligible to compete for a Trail Companion Excellent title.

1.3 Scheduling of Trials
   Trials may be held by any group who, in the opinion of the Dalmatian Club of Canada Trail & Road Trial Committee, are qualified to do so.
   Trials may also be held in conjunction with CKC All Breed or Dalmatian Specialty shows.

1.4 Limitation of Entries
   The number of entries allowed in any Trial may be limited by the group hosting the Trial.
   The number of entries allowed in a particular Trial will be specified in the Premium List.

1.5 Selection of Competitors
   After the closing date for entries has passed, the Trail & Road Trial Manager will determine which entries will be eligible to compete.
   Entries will be accepted in the order that they are received.

1.6 Entry Refunds
   Entry fees for all entries not accepted to compete will be returned within 5 days of the closing date for entries.
   Entry fees will not be refunded to any of the selected roster of entrants. Entry fees for a bitch in season will be refunded when the owner or handler produces a veterinarian's certificate proving same before the course familiarization the day prior to the trial.

2.1 Rider/Handlers
   Each dog may be handled by the owner or any other person. As used in these regulations, the handler may also be referred to as the "rider".

2.2 Officials
   Any person designated in Section 5 will not be eligible to compete in a Trial for which he/she serves in an official capacity.

2.3 Family Members
   No immediate member of a Judge's family may compete in a Trial for which the Judge is acting in an official capacity.

2.4 Identification
   Riders will be identified by a large displayed number clearly visible to the Judges.

2.5 Rider Clothing
   CSA Certified protective head gear and riding boots or shoes with at least a 1/2 inch heel are mandatory for all riders.

2.6 Riding Ability
   The Officials of the Trial have the right to determine a handler's riding ability before allowing the rider to compete in the Trial.
   Should it be determined by the Trial Officials that a rider might present a safety hazard to himself, his horse, or to others, he will be disqualified from competition.

2.7 Escort Riders
   Trial competitors may choose for safety and enjoyment to ride in pairs on the Timed Distance course. Single or paired riders may have one (1) un entered escort ride with them.
   This escort may not at any time give commands or signals to any of the entered dogs and must ride and behave in such a way as to not interfere with the Trial competitor, his dog(s), his horse, the Trial Judges or their line of vision.

3.1 Dog Eligibility
   A Dalmatian Club of Canada Trail and Road Trial is open to all dogs of appropriate age and condition, regardless of registration or breed.

3.2 Family Members
   No dog owned by the Judge or Judge's family may compete in a Trial for which the Judge is acting in an official capacity.

3.3 Trail Companion Classification
   All dogs entered in the Trail Companion classification must be a minimum of 1.5 years (18 months) of age.

3.4 Trail Companion Excellent Classification
   All dogs entered in the Trail Companion Excellent classification must be a minimum of two years (24 months) of age.

3.5 Age Determination
   The actual age of the dog is to be determined by the birth date on the Canadian Kennel Club or equivalent registration papers or in the case of an unregistered dog, from the age estimate provided by the Veterinary Judge.

3.6 Multiple Entries
   Each rider may enter up to two dogs on a single team in a Trial.

3.7 Identification
   Dogs run in a team of 2 will be identified on the course by a wide, light weight, colour-coded collar.
   It is advisable that each dog wear some means of identification such as a tattoo, microchips or tags.

3.8 Bitches in Season
   Bitches in season will not be allowed to compete.
   If, in the opinion of the Veterinary Judge, any bitch is found to be in season and the rider has not notified the Trail & Road Trial Manager, the bitch will be disqualified from competition.

3.9 Inoculations
   It is suggested that all dogs entered should have up to date vaccinations for Distemper, Para Influenza, Parvo, Lepto, Hepatitis, Bordatella and Rabies.

3.10 Blind or Deaf Dogs
   A dog that is blind or deaf is not eligible to compete. Blind means without useful vision. Deaf means without useful hearing. In the case of a disagreement, the opinion of the Veterinary Judge will carry.

3.11 Un entered Dogs
   Dogs not competing in the Trial or not participating in the Distraction exercise will not be allowed on the course during competition.
   However, companion dogs will be allowed on the show grounds in designated, non-competitive areas provided they conform to all rules of health and conduct for competition dogs.

4.1 Tack and Riding Equipment
   Type of tack and riding equipment is at the discretion of the rider.
   Saddles must be worn. Running martingales are accepted. No other form of tie down is allowed.

4.2 Veterinary evaluations
   Horses entered in the Trial will be subject to veterinary evaluations. The fitness of horses will be evaluated to determine the fitness of the horse to continue in the Trial. Trial committees may elect to award Best Fit Horse amongst competitors who bring their own horses.

4.3 Infectious Disease
   Horses displaying evidence of any infectious disease will be excused from competition and asked to leave the area of the Trial.

4.4 Lameness
   Dalmatian Club of Canada does not condone the riding of lame horses. Any horse that, in the opinion of the Veterinary Judge, is lame or otherwise unsound may not compete in the Trial.

4.5 Behaviour and Attitude
   The horse will stand reasonably quiet for any examination the Veterinary Judge deems necessary. Unruly horses such as those too difficult to be examined are subject to removal from the competition. Any horse that presents a hazard to other riders on the course will be disqualified.

4.6 Visible Ribbons
   Bright visible ribbons must be tied in the manes and tails of all stallions. Bright visible ribbons must be tied in the tails horses that may kick at other horses, dogs or people.

4.7 Elimination
   The Trail & Road Trial Veterinary Judge will have the final decision as to whether a horse must be withdrawn from competition.

4.8 Replacement Mounts
   If a horse has been excused from the Trial, the rider may be allowed to substitute another mount, if such a substitute mount is available within the time frame that would allow the rider to complete the course within the originally allotted time.

5.1 Officials
   One person may serve in more than one official capacity.
   All officials must be thoroughly familiar with the Trail & Road Trial rules.

5.2 Trail & Road Trial Manager
   The Trail & Road Trial Manager will interpret the Trail & Road Trial rules to officials and process any complaints or protests. The Trail & Road Trial Manager has the overall responsibility for staging the Trail & Road Trial and enforcing the Trail & Road Trial rules.

5.3 Obedience Site Manager
   This person will ensure that the Obedience Course is safe and well marked.
   The Obedience Site Manager has the responsibility for staging the Obedience Briefing and Exercises, and will liaise with the Trail & Road Trial Manager and the Mounted (Obedience & Speed) Judge.

5.4 Mounted (Obedience & Speed) Judge
   A Trail & Road Trial must have at least one Mounted Judge, who must be both an experienced equestrian, have earned a title in a Canadian Kennel Club or equivalent obedience trial, and have earned at least a TR.C or equivalent or have judged another Trail and Road Trial or equivalent.
   The Mounted Judge will have the final decision in judging the Recall, Hock, Distraction, Stay and Speed exercises.

5.5 Trail Manager
   The Trail Manager ensures that the Timed Distance trail is well marked, timed, and safe. Each classification, or level, of the Trail & Road Trial must be ridden and timed by the Trail Manager or designate, on horseback, to meet the guidelines as set out in section 1.2 Classification.

5.6 Official Timers
   Each Trail & Road Trial will provide timers who will have the responsibility to record the time of each Trial competitor during the Timed Distance exercise. The records kept by the timers will be turned over to the Veterinary Judge's Secretary at the conclusion of the Trial.

5.7 Veterinary Checkpoint Manager
   This person will ensure that the Veterinary Checkpoints are established and manned by qualified personnel.

5.8 Veterinary Judge
   A Trail & Road Trial must have at least one Veterinary Judge, who must be a veterinarian experienced with providing veterinary service to dogs and horses.
   If the trail used for the Timed Distance Exercise does not loop back to the barn at the midpoint, but rather has a midpoint on the trail, a second Veterinarian or a Veterinarian Technician must be used for midpoint canine/equine health checks.
   If it is anticipated that there will be more than 10 entries in a given Trial, it is recommended that two or more veterinarians participate in the judging. The judges acting together will have the final decision as to:

1) whether a horse or dog may start the Trial,
2) when a horse or dog must be withdrawn from competition.
3) penalties and disqualifications.

   If a "best conditioned dog" award is to be given, the Veterinary Judges will decide on this award placement.
   It should be noted that the treatment of ailing dogs or horses during the Trial is not the responsibility of the Veterinary Judge. Trial management should pre-arrange for a stand-by veterinarian for such purposes whenever possible.
   Veterinary expenses incurred by competitors are the responsibility of the competitor and not Trial Management.

5.9 Pulse and Respiration Teams
   Pulse and Respiration crews properly briefed and trained are used at the P & R stops to quickly and efficiently handle the dogs as they come through.
   Trial Management will ensure that adequate P & R teams are in place. One team per 5 competitors is recommended.
   The Veterinarian and Veterinarian,s Secretary ma act as a P & R team.

5.10 Judge's Recording Secretaries
   Each Judge will be assigned a Recording Secretary. It is the duty of the Recording Secretary to accurately record the findings of the Judge. Judge,s may use a Dictaphone or other recording device which will be transferred by the Judge's Recording secretary to paper immediately following each rider's obedience test.

5.11 Judge's Stewards
   Judges are in sole charge of their particular area of judging. Stewards will be provided to assist each judge, but they will act only on the Judge's instructions to riders except as specifically instructed by the Judge, and then only in such a manner that is clear that the instructions are those of the Judge.

6.1 Competition Duration
   The riders and dogs will be considered in competition from the moment of presenting the dog for the pre-Obedience Exercise briefing through to the post-Trial vet check following the Timed Distance exercise. Time required at the Pulse and Respiration (P & R) stops will be included in the total day's riding time.

6.2 Care of Dogs
   All riders are required to care for their own dogs, except in the case of a sick dog or having the dog held during a rest break.

6.3 Use of Collar and Leash
   Dogs must be kept on leash at all times except when competing during the Obedience exercises or when competing on the Timed Distance trail.
   Dogs will be brought to the Steward for the Mounted Judge on a leash. When each rider is ready to start the course, and the Mounted Judge is ready to start judging, the Steward will remove the leash and/or collar. The Steward will return them to the rider as the obedience course is completed.
   Dogs will be brought to the start of the Timed Distance trail on a leash. When the rider is ready to start the Timed Distance portion of the Trial, the Official Timer will remove the leash and/or collar and return them to the rider.
   Dogs may run on course wearing a plain buckle collar at the rider's discretion. No other collars other than for official identification are allowed.
   Dogs must again be leashed during P & R Checks and Veterinary Checks.

6.4 Handling
   From arrival to departure of the competition site, competitors who abuse their horses or dogs, or engage in conduct unbecoming to a competitor will be asked to leave the Trial and will be disqualified from further consideration in judging.
   Any Trail & Road Trial official observing such abuse or conduct will disqualify the competitor from the competition.

6.5 Interference and Double Handling
   Any Trail & Road Trial Judge who is aware of any assistance, interference, or attempts to control a dog from other than the rider must act promptly to stop such double handling or interference, and will penalize the dog substantially, or, if the circumstances warrant, will give the dog a score of zero for the exercise during which the aid was received.

6.6 Behaviour
   Any Judge or Trial Manager may disqualify any dog or horse that presents a hazard to dogs, horses or riders during the competition.

6.7 Fitness to Continue
   Any Judge who considers a horse or dog under stress, lame, or incapable of continuing will remove the animal from competition. When a Judge finds any of these conditions in a dog, he will also obtain the opinion of the Veterinary Judge who will, if warranted, disqualify the dog.

6.8 Re judging
   If a dog has failed in a particular exercise, it will not ordinarily be re judged nor given a second chance. However, if in a Judge's opinion, the dog's performance was prejudiced by peculiar and unusual conditions, the Judge may at his own discretion re judge the dog on the entire exercise.

6.9 Examination Procedures
   The examination and inspection procedures are at the discretion of the Judges.
   Judges will not discriminate against any dog due to conformation or type.

6.10 Multiple Entries
   Each dog will be judged individually, but dogs run in a group are required to perform exercises in the Trial as a group.

6.11 Obedience Scores
   Competitors will be told if they have passed or failed the Obedience Exercises prior to the Timed Distance Exercise. Failing exhibits may choose not to compete in the Timed Distance Exercise.

7.1 Obedience Briefing
   All riders, horses and dogs will check in at the prescribed time before the start of the Trial for the Obedience Briefing by the Mounted Judge.

7.2 Rider's Responsibility
   At this time the riders are responsible for determining that the score card accurately describes the dog being judged as to name age, sex, colour and classification of competition.

8.1 Judging
   The Mounted Judge will evaluate each dog and rider in the Recall, Hock, Distraction and Stay exercises.
   The theoretically perfect performance of each dog/rider/horse team combines the utmost willingness, enjoyment and precision on the part of the dog, and naturalness, gentleness, and smoothness on the part of the handler. Lack of willingness, enjoyment or precision in the dog's performance must result in loss of points, as will any aggression shown by the dog. Roughness in handling or commands by the handler will also result in loss of points.

8.2 Obedience Exercises
   Whenever possible, the Obedience exercises will be judged following the Pre-Trial vet check and prior to the start of the Timed Distance trail portion of the Trial.

8.3 Training on the Course
   Competitors will not be permitted to practice any exercise on the Obedience course before being judged.

8.4 Warm-up
   After leaving the start of the Obedience course and before beginning the Obedience Exercises, each team will be allowed at least a half kilometre (one quarter mile) warm-up to allow the dogs and horses to settle.

8.5 Judge's Directions
   The Mounted Judge's orders and signals will be given to the riders in a clear and understandable manner, but in such a way that the work of the dog is not disturbed. The Mounted Judge will take care that his horse does not come so close to any of the dogs so as to interfere with any exercise.
   Before starting the Recall, Hock, Stay, and the Distraction exercises, the Judge will state "This will be the (particular) exercise." and ask "Are you ready?" At the end of each exercise the Judge will say "Exercise finished."

8.6 Rider's Commands
   Single verbal commands are preferable. Extra verbal commands or voice corrections are permissible if needed to keep a dog under voice control, but will be scored accordingly. Any unusual noise or motion may be considered to be a correction.
   A rider may praise his dog(s) during an exercise without point deduction. Excessive praise will receive point deductions.
   A rider will not offer or carry food during the Obedience exercises.
   Delay in following the Mounted Judge's order to give a command will be penalized.
   The dog's name may be used once immediately before any verbal command. In the case of a rider running more than one dog at the same time, each dog's name may be used once immediately before each dog is given any verbal command.
   Commands which, in the Mounted Judge's opinion are excessively loud or gruff will be penalized.
   In all exercises, the rider's arms and hands will be in a natural riding position.

8.7 Recall Criteria
   The principal feature of the Recall exercise is the ability of the dog to respond promptly to the rider's command to return.
   When the dog has run naturally to the front or has dropped back a good distance behind the rider's horse, the Mounted Judge will give the order "Call your dog." The rider will give a command to recall the dog while his horse is still. A rider may choose to put their dog(s) in a 'wait' prior to the recall, should they feel their dog will not stray from their horse.
   Each dog must come straight in at a brisk trot or gallop within 15' of the horse. The dog must then remain within this 15' circle or sphere of influence for 10 seconds. On the Judge's orders, the rider will release the dog.

8.8 Hock Criteria
   The principal feature of the Hock exercise is the ability of the dog to stay close to the horse and rider when required.
   Hock position means that the dog is in a straight line with the direction in which the rider and horse are facing, either at the horse's left or right side, or within one horse length, approximately 2.5 meters (8 feet) at any point in a semi-circle behind the horse's head, as close as practicable to the horse without crowding or obstructing the horse's motion. The Mounted Judge will standardize as much as is practical the place on the course that each dog is required to "Hock". The Mounted Judge will give the order "Call your dog to hock". The rider will call in the dog and then give the dog a single command to fall into the hock position. The dog will remain in hock position while continuing forward at a brisk trot for a distance of 200 yards.
   Dogs on a team with multiple entries will not be penalized for allowing space for another dog on the team.

8.9 Distraction Criteria
   The principle feature of the Distraction exercise is the ability of the dog to remain under the rider's voice control in the event of a distraction.
   On a signal from the Mounted Judge, a hiker with a dog on a leash will start walking toward the approaching dog and rider. The hiker will stay between the distraction dog and the competitors, at least 15 feet away from the horse and rider while passing. The Mounted Judge will give the order "Continue Forward". The rider will give the dog a command to continue forward at a walk or trot in the hock position, in accordance with section 8.8
   When the rider and the dog have gone 20 yards past the hiker, on the Judge's orders, the rider will release the dog.

8.10 Stay Criteria
   The principal feature of the Stay exercise is the ability of the dog to wait under his rider's control until released.
   The Mounted Judge will give the order "Call your dog to Stay". The rider will call in the dog and then give the dog a single command to either sit or down and stay.
   The dog must remain in position for sixty (60) seconds. On the Judge's orders, the rider will release the dog.
   Any movement of the dog out of position will result in points deducted. However, a dog will not fail unless it actually leaves the area of its original stay position Fidgeting or shifting from one hip to another, is not to be penalized.
   If the dog or rider,s safety is at risk the rider may dismount his/her horse prior to or during the exercise to keep the horse calm. No point deduction will be made if the rider does not give any extra command to his dog.

8.11 Disqualification
   A dog with a score of less than 51% in any of the Obedience exercises will not receive a qualifying score, Exhibitors will be advised of their pass/fail status and non qualifying teams may choose to complete the Timed Distance Exercise.

8.12 Re judging
   If a dog has failed in a particular exercise, it shall not ordinarily be re judged nor given a second chance. If, however, in the Judge's opinion, the dog's performance was prejudiced by peculiar and unusual conditions, the Judge may, at his own discretion, re judge the dog on the entire exercise. Re judging must occur prior to the Timed Distance Exercise.

9.1 Judging
   The Mounted Judge will evaluate each dog and handler in the Speed exercise.
   The Speed exercise is intended to demonstrate the dog's ability keep pace with a galloping horse.

9.2 Speed Course
   The Speed Exercise will be conducted in appropriate terrain after the Obedience portion of the Trial.
   The course must have sufficiently good footing for the rider to gallop his horse for 100 continuous yards and preferably provide an elevated point mid-way for proper observance by the Course Judge.

9.3 Judge's Directions
   The Course Judge's orders and signals will be given to the riders in a clear and understandable manner, but in such a way that the work of the dog is not disturbed. The Course Judge will be situated either mid-way in the Speed Course, or the mounted judge may gallop just behind the team in the same direction, in such a way as to not frighten the horse.
   Before starting the Speed exercise, the judge or an official Course Judge's Steward on a signal from the Course Judge, will state "This will be the Speed exercise." and ask "Are you ready?" At the end of the Speed exercise there will be trail markers which indicate that the exercise is finished and the speed may be reduced.

9.4 Speed Criteria
   The principal feature of the Speed exercise is the ability of the dog to keep pace with a galloping horse.
   The judge, or on signal from the Judge, the official Course Judge's Steward will give the order "Start when ready ". The rider will command the dog to move into hock position. The team will move towards the marked start line and achieve the necessary speed when reaching the beginning marker. The rider will gallop his horse for a distance of one hundred yards. Riders who fail to achieve a gallop with their horse will have 10 points deducted from their speed score
   The dog must keep pace with the horse, running in any position of the dog's choice.
   When the rider has passed the trail marker indicating the completion of the exercise, he and the dog may reduce speed.

10.1 Pre-Timed Distance Veterinary Check
   All riders, horses and dogs will check in 15 minutes prior to their start time before the start of the Timed Distance Exercise for the pre-Timed Distance veterinary check by the Veterinary Judges.

10.2 Rider's Responsibility
   At this time the riders are responsible for determining that the score card accurately describes the dog being judged as to name age, sex, colour and classification of competition. Also, at this time, the Veterinary Judges will identify all marks and blemishes and make an evaluation of the dog's way of going. It is the rider's responsibility to point out any existing marks or blemishes that the Veterinary Judge may have overlooked. This is extremely important because any mark or blemish not recorded in the preliminary inspection can be scored against the dog if detected during the final judging.

10.3 Infectious Disease
   Dogs displaying evidence of any infectious disease will be excused from competition and asked to leave the area of the Trial.

11.1 Timed Distance Exercise Start
   Competitors will be timed out at the start of the Timed Distance trail portion of the Trial at 15 minute intervals, or at the discretion of Trial management.
   Competitors may elect to ride together, in which case the next team will be timed out 30 minutes later.
   An accurate start time will be recorded for each competitor by the Official Timer.

11.2 Optimum Time
   Optimum time will be calculated according to section 1.2 A grace period of 10 minutes either side of optimum time (a total of 20 minutes between minimum and maximum) will be allowed without competitors incurring penalties.

11.3 Early Penalties
   If a rider finishes the Timed Distance trail more than 10 minutes before optimum time, 2 penalty points for each minute early will be deducted.

11.4 Late Penalties
   If a competitor finishes the Timed Distance trail more than 10 minutes after the optimum time, 2 penalty point per minute late will be deducted from the final score.

11.5 Disqualification
   Competitors finishing the Timed Distance trail more than 30 minutes early or late will be disqualified.
   It is the rider's responsibility to ride according to the official time clock and for the rider to make the official timer aware of any unavoidable delays at vet checks, P & R stops, etc.

12.1 Trail supervision
   Adequate trail supervision will be provided, by vehicle and/or horseback, for the safety of horses, dogs and riders. First aid kits will be available at all vet checks

12.2 Trail markings
   Trail markings will be distinct and obvious to riders. Mileage markers must be placed every 5 miles. The use of survey ribbon and lime are commonly used.

12.3 Terrain
   The course will be natural and native to the local terrain, and the use of artificial obstacles is prohibited.

12.4 Pace
   The horse, dog(s) and rider may go at their own pace unless instructed otherwise by Trial Management or Judges.

12.5 Forward Motion
   No forward motion on the Timed Distance trail is allowed unless the rider is mounted.
   From a properly identified point, exactly 2 miles from the finish, riders must maintain a forward motion and not stop or dismount from this point to the finish line. Forward motion must be via the most direct route following the marked trail. Competitors observed zigzagging, circling, back tracking or stopping within the final 2 miles will be disqualified. Riders should pace their horses so as not to arrive at this point excessively ahead of schedule.

12.6 Hazards
   In case of hazardous areas or obstacles, it is at Trial management's discretion to advise riders of such, and whether or not riders may lead their horses over or through the obstacle.

12.7 Lost Riders
   The same rider and dog(s) must pass all control points and stay on the marked trail. Should the rider become lost, he/she must return via horseback to that point at which he/she left the marked trail and then complete the trail as indicated.

12.8 First Aid Kits
   First aid kits, containing supplies for treatment of basic injuries to riders, horses and dogs should be carried by all competitors.

13.1 Number of Checks
   The rate of recovery of pulse and respiration is a definite indication of the condition and performance of the dog. There will be a minimum of three (3) 10 minute P & R out readings during the day's Timed Distance exercise. These may include the P & R checks during the Veterinary Judging. prior to, at the midpoint and after the trial.

13.2 Recovery Time
   Dogs arriving at a P & R checkpoint will be timed in to the stop, given 10 minutes recovery time, and a P & R recovery rate taken and recorded.
   Time at the P & R stops will be included in the total day's riding time.

13.3 Heart Monitors
   Heart monitors are not permitted in competition.

13.4 Out Checks
   When a rider arrives at a vet check, he/she is timed in and allowed ten minutes to water and rest the dog. A P & R crew will then take the dog's pulse and respiration and if the dog is within the parameters set by the judges, the dog must be presented to the judges. The Veterinary Judge will check and record the dog's fitness, condition, behaviour and attitude. If the dog is within the parameters, the rider may allow the dog more time to rest or may proceed on the Timed Distance trail.

13.5 Trot In
   Requesting a trot in to a P & R check point is at the discretion of Trial management.

13.6 Late Presentation Penalty
   Riders are responsible for presenting their dogs to the P & R crews on time. If a rider is purposely late or inadvertently late for the 10 minute P & R check (other than a delay due to lineup) they will be assessed a 10 minute penalty.

13.7 Extra Time Held
   If a dog's pulse fails to meet the prescribed hold criteria, the dog will be held a further 10 minutes and another P & R check will be taken. If the dog has recovered to the prescribed parameters, he may continue. The extra time held (over and above the initial 10 minutes) will be added to the competitor's overall time. A dog that does not pass the original P & R criteria will be assessed a 10 point penalty.
   If a dog still has not recovered after this hold, he will be held another 10 minutes and checked. If the pulse has not recovered to the prescribed parameters at this time, the dog is disqualified from further competition. Maximum time at a P & R check would be 30 minutes, including the initial 10 minute recovery and 2 extra holds of 10 minutes each.

13.8 Recounts
   A rider may request and receive an immediate P & R recount at a checkpoint by a designated, qualified person. If there is more than a 2 point difference in the recount, the second count will be recorded.

13.9 P & R Readings
   Fifteen second readings will be taken and recorded. Readings are not to be multiplied by four to give a per minute reading.
   Stethoscopes are mandatory when P & R crews are taking the pulse.

13.10 P & R Parameters
   Parameters for holding dogs for the purposes of P & R recovery can vary depending on weather conditions. These parameters will be set by the Veterinary Judge in conjunction with Trial management and announced to competitors prior to beginning the ride.

13.11 Scoring
   Only the Pulse recordings resulting from the initial 10 minutes are used for scoring. One point per each heartbeat over the pre-trial rate will be deducted.
   Respiration recordings, where available, will be noted for the Veterinary Judge's reference only.

14.1 Judging
   The minimum number of scored checks per Trial will be one P/R check prior to starting the trial, one P/R check at the midpoint, and one P/R check at the finish line.

14.2 Final Inspection
   From the rider's official "time in" at the finish, he/she must present their dog(s) to the Veterinary Judge in ten (10) minutes for the post vet check. It is the Trial management's responsibility to ensure that all riders present to the Veterinary Judge in order of finish. The rider must be made aware, by the Veterinary Judge, of any injuries, lameness and soreness at the post-Trial vet check. A "runner" may trot lame dogs so that the rider may observe the dog's movement.

14.3 Evaluation Criteria
A) Lameness and Stiffness

The Veterinary Judge will evaluate the dog's way of going during the Trial to determine changes in gait resulting from an inability to adapt to the stress placed on tendons, muscles, ligaments, bones and joints.

B) Heat & Swelling

The areas of the joints and tendons, which indicate inflammation, are of particular importance.

C) Muscle Soreness

E) Cuts and Abrasions

Pads and paws will be particularly checked for injury

F) Visual Condition

Evidence to carry on. This will include an evaluation of depression, desire to eat and drink, and diseases associated with exhaustion such as muscle spasm, abnormal heart sounds and dehydration.

G) Gait

The exhibitor will trot their dog away from and towards the judge to allow evaluation of the dog for lameness.

H) Pulse and Respiration

(see Section 13)

I) Behaviour and Attitude

The dog should demonstrate enjoyment and a willingness to continue.
The dog will stand reasonably quiet for any examination the judge deems necessary. Unruly dogs such as those too difficult to be examined or judged are subject to disqualification from competition.

14.4 Drug Testing
   A competitor will be disqualified and barred from the competition if a competing dog has been administered, in any manner, a stimulant, depressant, general pain killer, tranquillizer, drugs or local anaesthetic which could affect the performance or well being of the dog.
   Drug testing may be carried out any time between the start of the pre-Trial vet check of the dog up to the conclusion of the official elimination or post-Trial vet check of the dog. The examination will be deemed to be started when the dog is presented for examination and concluded when the Veterinary Judge's findings have been recorded and the Veterinary Judge has signed the score sheet.
   Refusal to grant permission will result in disqualification.

14.5 Disqualification
   If a Veterinary Judge disqualifies a horse or dog during the Trial, the rider must follow the Judge's instructions concerning the treatment for the horse or dog. Failure to do so will result in the competitor being disqualified from further competition for the balance of the year.

15.1 Trail & Road Trial Awards
   Awards are sponsored by the Dalmatian Club of Canada.
   Each Trial will have awards for each level or classification offered. Ribbons and prizes are to be awarded only to dogs that earn Qualifying Scores.

15.2 Qualifying Scores
   A score of 51% awarded by the Judge in each Obedience exercise, the Speed Exercise, the Timed Distance Exercise and in the Veterinary Evaluations is a pass rating. A qualifying score is comprised of a pass rating in each of the exercises in the Trial.

15.3 Ribbons and Awards
   Ribbons will be awarded to fourth place for each classification.
   Ribbon colours are as follows: 1st - blue, 2nd - red, 3rd - yellow, 4th - white. High in Trail & Road Trial - blue and white. All ribbons may contain spotted ribbon as well as required coloured ribbon.
   Other awards, depending on the wishes of management could include any of the following:

High in Trial
Highest Obedience score
Best Conditioned
Qualifying score
Youngest Competitor
Oldest Competitor
Hard Luck Award
Participation Award

   Each ribbon or rosette will bear on its face a facsimile of the seal of the Dalmatian Club of Canada, the words "Trail & Road Trial", and the name of the prize and class

15.4 Ties
   Ties will be broken using the times from the endurance portion (closest to optimum time wins). However, if someone is running a team of 2 and those 2 dogs tie, or if a pair of competitors that rode together tied, a tie would be broken by comparing their current hock scores (best one wins). If those two where the same, current hock and recall scores would be combined (best combined score wins).

15.5 Errors
   In the event that an error in awards presentation is discovered, the Trial management must notify in writing all affected parties (whose placing's are affected). This notice must be postmarked not later that 5 days from the date of the Trial.

15.6 Trail Companion Title
   The Dalmatian Club of Canada will issue a Trail Companion (TR.C) Certificate to a dog which has participated in a Trail & Road Trial in the Trail Companion classification and received a qualifying score.

15.7 Trail Companion Excellent Title
   The Dalmatian Club of Canada will issue a Trail Companion Excellent (TR.CX) Certificate to a dog which has participated in a Trail & Road Trial in the Trail Companion Excellent classification and received a qualifying score.

16.1 Grievance
   In the event that a difference occurs between the Trial Management and one or more participants in that Trial regarding the interpretation, application, administration, or any alleged violation of the rules or Trial conduct, the following procedure shall be applicable to settle the dispute.

16.2 Grievance - Step 1
   The participant(s) and Trial management concerned shall first seek to settle the difference in discussion amongst themselves.

16.3 Grievance - Step 2
   If the difference is not resolved satisfactorily in Step 1, it then becomes a grievance. The grievance shall then be reduced to writing by the griever(s).

16.4 Grievance Fee
   A $25.00 fee is to accompany the written grievance, refundable if the grievance is upheld.

16.5 Written Grievance
   The written grievance will state the nature of the grievance, the date of the occurrence, and the circumstance(s) out of which it arose.
   It will also contain the rule or rules claimed to have been infringed upon or violated, and the remedy, or correction the grievance committee is required to take.
   The written grievance will be mailed in duplicate to the secretary of the Dalmatian Club of Canada.

16.6 Grievance Expiration
   The written grievance must be postmarked no later than 72 hours from the date of the alleged occurrence.
   If the written grievance is received postmarked more than 72 hours after the date of the alleged occurrence, the written grievance becomes void, and will not be considered.

16.7 Grievance Committee
   Upon receipt of a valid written grievance, the secretary will immediately notify the president of the Dalmatian Club of Canada.
   The president will fix a date no more than six(6) weeks thereafter and will appoint an ad-hoc committee to receive and assess the evidence submitted by the griever(s).

16.8 Committee Members
   The committee will consist of the president, or president's appointee, the Dalmatian Club of Canada director representing the participant's region, and the Dalmatian Club of Canada director representing the Trial management's region. If both parties reside in the same region, then the president shall appoint another committee member who is a director of the club.
   None of the grievance committee members may be either of or related to the grieving parties.

16.9 Grievance Decision
   The grievance committee will make known its decision in writing to the parties concerned. A majority decision of the grievance committee will be binding on both parties.