RulesDrafting

CHAPTER 8 - Exercises, Tests, and Scoring
These rules and regulations originally based on Dalmatian Club of American Road Trials rules and regulations as amended by the British Carriage Dog Society to reflect UK conditions, custom and practice..

All matters to be put on the agenda for discussion during the evaluation period should be notified as they arise, in writing to: The British Carriage Dog Society, Tubwell Farm, Tubwell Lane, Maynards Green, Heathfield, East Sussex. TN21 0BY

Copies of these regulations are freely available to be used by Carriage Dog Trials organisers

Definition and Purpose
The purpose of a Carriage Dog Trial is to demonstrate the use of pedigree Dalmatians as a companion to man in one of the roles that they have been bred to perform. It is a performance event designed to evaluate the Dalmatian ’ s ability to ’ coach ’, or follow horses. Entrants qualify their dogs as a handler on horseback, or in a horse-drawn vehicle with dog(s) off lead.

The Kennel Club Breed Standard states, "the Dalmatian should be a carriage dog of good demeanour, capable of great endurance and a fair turn of speed". These qualities are essential to his successful use as a horse/rider and horse/carriage escort.

There are four levels of Competition. The Carriage or Road Dog Certificate evaluates the Dalmatian ’ s ability to coach at a novice level. The Bronze class evaluates coaching ability at a novice level with a short distance trial. The Silver class evaluates coaching ability and moderate endurance and the Gold class evaluates coaching ability and extended endurance. Groom handler classes give the opportunity for Dalmatian owners to demonstrate the coaching abilities of their dogs as a groom or passenger on a vehicle. All classes demonstrate the handler ’ s control and the Dalmatian ’ s ability to behave in public places in the presence of other dogs in a manner that will reflect positively on the sport and the breed.

The dog and entrant must accurately complete the whole Trial course and must conform to these regulations. It is also essential that the dog demonstrates willingness and enjoyment of his work throughout. Carriage Dog Trials are a sport and all participants should be guided by the principles of good sportsmanship at all times.

Compliance with Regulations and Standards
In accordance with the certification on the entry form, each competitor must be familiar with these regulations and, by entering the Carriage Dog Trial, agrees to comply with said regulations.

Risk
The owner or agent entering any dog and/or horse in a Carriage Dog Trials does so at his/her own risk. Activities involving horses involve an inherent risk, which is acknowledged by each participant by signing the disclaimer. Neither the British Carriage Dog Society, Trials organisers, nor any land owner nor any agent, employee or representative of these bodies, save for the death or injury caused by negligence of the organisers or anyone for whom they are in law responsible, accepts any liability for any incidents, loss, damage or illness to horses, dogs, owners, grooms, spectators or any other person or property whatsoever caused by their negligence, breach of contract, or in any way whatsoever in any British Carriage Dog Society sanctioned Carriage Dog Trial.

It is a condition of entry that each entrant shall agree to indemnify the organisers against any legal action arising therefrom. Driving is a high risk sport and every competition has its own particular risks and especially when entrants are required to drive their turnout and be in control of their dog/s organizers must ensure that all possible safety precautions are observed. The organisers reserve the right to determine an entrant ’ s riding, driving or grooming ability and inspect his/her turnout before allowing him/her to compete in a Carriage Dog Trial. Should it be determined by the organisers that a rider, whip or groom might present a safety hazard to him/herself, his/her horse, his/her dog or to others, the rider, whip or groom will not be allowed to compete.

Riders are advised that they may encounter carriages on the course and are asked to ensure that their horse is accustomed to them. Whips are requested to show consideration to riders they may encounter on the course. It shall be the competitor ’ s responsibility to determine which medical inoculations are deemed necessary for his dog(s) and horse(s). S/he may be required to show vet certificates of certain inoculations, as specified in each Carriage Dog Trial schedule. S/he is required to provide proof of adequate third party insurance before being allowed to compete.

In these regulations "horse" shall be defined as horse, pony, donkey or mule. In all classes, the competitor may own the horse(s), or the horse(s) may be borrowed or rented at the competitor ’ s expense and liability. The British Carriage Dog Society assumes no responsibility for the financial arrangements of hired horses, or for the use of any horse(s) at any Carriage Dog Trial, or for any damage that may be caused by such horses.

Equipment
Attention must be paid to the fit, safety and soundness of harness and tack. Organisers must provide safety checks.

Carriage Dog: Safety helmets must be worn at all times when on a horse drawn vehicle. Spares must be carried. The vehicle should be in a sound condition and of a type suitable for the terrain.

Road Dog: Competitors and escorts must wear safety helmets at all times when mounted and riding boots or shoes with at least a ½ inch heel.

The mounted judge shall be required to wear a safety helmet, and riding boots or shoes with at least a ½ inch heel.

Use of Collar and Lead
Dogs should be kept on a lead when not competing. Dogs may be brought to the starting line on a lead if the competitor chooses. The competitor must remove and stow the lead before crossing the starting line and will be disqualified if it is re-attached to the dog on the endurance or obedience course without the authorisation of the organisers or judge. There shall be collars and leads available at the mid-point vet check for competitors to use on each dog during his vet examination. Dogs should be kept on a lead when brought into the ring to receive awards. Dogs may only wear a smooth collar when competing. It is required by law that each dog wears an identification tag in a public place.

Road Trials Hosts
If a group or individual wishes to run a Carriage Dog Trial in which the entrants are eligible for British Carriage Dog Society awards the group or individual should write to the British Carriage Dog Society and agree to abide by its rules and regulations.

Un-entered Dogs
Only dogs entered in the Carriage Dog Trial and distraction dogs used for the Trial shall be allowed within the obedience area of competition. If the organisers wish to allow the presence of un-entered dogs in a designated area, these dogs shall be subject to all rules relating to health and conduct and must be kept on a lead. The owners or agents shall be responsible for the care and safety of such dogs.

a Carriage Dog: Whip Handlers, Groom Handlers and Grooms
Entrants may qualify their dogs as a whip, groom handler or passenger in a vehicle driven by some one else.

Whip Handlers: An adult whip must be accompanied by a groom aged 14 years or more on the day of the event. A junior whip must be aged 16 years or more and must be accompanied by an able bodied, experienced groom aged 18 years or more on the day of the event. Permission may be granted for juniors to compete or act as whip if the prior permission of the organisers has been applied for, and the junior is known by the organisers to be competent or a letter of competence from their pony club or driving club has been produced. If a junior competes or drives two sets of reins may be used.

Grooms: The groom may be questioned at the harness check and the organizers are at liberty to prohibit any turnout from continuing if is felt that the groom is unsatisfactory. Grooms may not command any entered dog, signal to it, or to interfere in any way with the proceedings of the trials except in an emergency, but may inform the whip of the dog ’ s position or behaviour.

Groom handlers: The groom ’ s primary purpose on the carriage is to support the whip. At a carriage dog trial, the groom handler assumes a dual role which is to support the whip and to handle the accompanying Dalmatian(s). The safety of all concerned must always take priority.

The groom handler must declare their competency on the entry form and be familiar with the turnout ’ s emergency procedure. The groom handler may be questioned at the harness check and the organizers are at liberty to prohibit any turnout from continuing if is felt that the groom handler is unsatisfactory. The groom handler will assume a position with feet facing forward on the carriage throughout the trial.

The whip may not speak to the groom at any stage in the obedience test, except to direct him/her in relation to the handling of the equine, or in the case of an emergency.

The whip may not command any entered dog, signal to it, or interfere in any way with the proceedings of the trials except in an emergency.

In all other respects, the tests shall emulate the whips ’ tests, except in the stay exercise as described in these rules.

1.7b Road Dog: Escorts For his/her safety and enjoyment, a ridden competitor entered in the Bronze, Silver or Gold classes is encouraged to choose an un-entered companion to ride on horseback. The escort must ride in such a way as to not interfere with the competitor, his dog(s), the mounted judge or the judge ’ s line of vision during any portion of the Road Trial. Any mounted escort must remain at a predetermined waiting area during the judging of the exercises. The escort may join the competitor team after the judging of the exercises has been completed. This escort shall be subject to act in accordance with these Regulations. Any escort may not at any time give any commands or signals to any of the entered dogs and must sign a disclaimer and agree to abide by the Carriage Dog Trials rules and regulations.

In both road and carriage dog classes the competitor must handle the entered dog(s) on the obedience and the endurance element of the competition.

Multiple Entries
Each competitor may enter up to three dogs on a single team in a Carriage Dog Trial. If a team has an entry of 3 dogs, the mounted judge(s) may choose to judge two dogs and then one. The competitor must provide an assistant to hold the dog on the team that is not being judged.

Identification
Multiple dogs on a team shall be identified on the course solely by a wide, colour-coded collar. Competitors shall be identified by a large number worn on their back or on the driven vehicle. Identification worn by dogs and competitors shall be clearly visible to the mounted judges and vets. The numbers or colours assigned by the Trial organisers for each member of each team shall be printed in any Carriage Dog Trial Programme.

0 Change in Mounted Judges
Mounted judges must be named in the schedule. If for any reason an announced Carriage Dog Trial mounted judge is unable to complete his/her assignment, an alternate mounted judge shall be named. Notification of this change shall be promptly made to the owner of each entry.

Class Order
After the closing date for entries has passed and prior to the printing of any Carriage Dog Trial Programme, the organisers shall draw by lot the order in which competitors shall begin the Trial with their dog(s). Numbers, colours, and judging times shall be assigned accordingly, in the following order. The organisers may only adjust the running order if necessary for practical reasons or on grounds of safety.

Carriage Dog Gold

Carriage Dog Gold (Groom Handler)

Road Dog Gold

Carriage Dog Silver

Carriage Dog Silver (Groom Handler)

Road Dog Silver

Carriage Dog Bronze

Carriage Dog Bronze (Groom Handler)

Road Dog Bronze

Coaching Certificate (Road or Carriage)

It is the responsibility of each competitor to be ready with his/her dog(s) and horse at the Start/Finish vet checkpoint when required, without being called and allowing time for the starting vet checks to be completed before his/her scheduled judging time. The final vet check of dogs that have completed the course shall take precedence over dogs on teams that are just starting the course. At the discretion of the Start/Finish vet, the vet may request that a competitor whose dogs are ready and waiting at his checkpoint be examined ahead of a competitor who is causing a delay. Once the starting vet check has been completed on each team, it is the responsibility of each competitor to present themselves at the course starting line and await instructions from the mounted judge or course steward. At the mounted judge ’ s or the course steward ’ s discretion, and if agreeable to the competitor, the mounted judge or Steward may request that a competitor who is ready and waiting at the starting line be judged ahead of a competitor who has delayed proceeding to the starting line.

Eligibility for Entry
As used in these regulations, the word "dog" refers to either sex but is confined to pedigree Dalmatians. Where a dog is not registered with the UK Kennel Club, or recognised overseas equivalent, the eligibility for entry of that dog will be at the discretion of the organisers.

BCDS sanction regional trials may include classes for non-Dalmatians.

Dogs That May Not Compete
For each individual trial no dog belonging wholly or in part to a Trial mounted judge, Trial vet, or to any member of such a person ’ s immediate family or household, nor may any of these officials handle or act as agent for any dog entered in the Carriage Dog Trial at which such person officiates or is scheduled to officiate.

No dog less than 12 months of age on the day of the Trial. No dog less than 18 months of age may compete in the Silver or Gold class.

A dog that is blind or deaf to the extent that it is, in the opinion of the organisers or vet, unable to participate in the competition safely.

Disqualification and Ineligibility
The following will be disqualified


 * any dog that attempts to attack any person, horse or dog
 * any dog or horse which is so much out of control as to be a danger to the safety of any person or other animal.
 * any dog the vet or mounted judge considers unfit to compete
 * any dog or a horse that is lame or otherwise unsound. If a horse has been removed from competition, the competitor shall be allowed to substitute another mount if such substitute mount is available within a reasonable time frame at the discretion of the organisers. The clocking of the competitor ’ s time shall stop, and be re-started, when a substitute mount has been obtained. It is not the responsibility of the organisers to provide substitute mounts.
 * any competitor who interferes wilfully with another competitor or his dog or horse on the course,
 * any competitor who displays behaviour contrary to the principles of good sportsmanship.
 * any competitor using abusive training of dogs or horses
 * any competitor using foul or abusive language or behavior

Any mounted judge or vet that disqualifies any competitor shall immediately advise a competitor that his/her dog(s) and/or horse has been disqualified and, in these cases, the dog(s) and/or competitor and/or escort shall be immediately removed from the course and the reason shall be stated in the Score Book or in a separate report.

All awards made to any disqualified dog at the Carriage Dog Trial shall be cancelled by the British Carriage Dog Society and the dog may not again compete in any British Carriage Dog Society sanctioned Trial unless and until, following application by the owner to the British Carriage Dog Society, the owner has received official notification from the Society that the dog ’ s eligibility has been reinstated. Dogs that have been found to be lame or unsound do not need such reinstatement of eligibility.

Training On the Grounds
Competitors shall be allowed and encouraged to ride/drive their horse on the obedience course the day before the Trial without dogs. Competitors shall be allowed to ride/drive their horse with dog(s) at Hock or Axle in an area away from the obedience course the day before the trial and the morning of the trial if such an area is available.

Decisions
At the Carriage Dog Trial, the decisions of a mounted judge or vet shall be final in all matters affecting the scoring and the working of the dogs and their competitors. The organisers shall decide all other matters arising at the Trial.

Stewards
The mounted judges and vets are in sole charge of their particular area of judging. Stewards shall be provided to assist each mounted judge and vet, but they may act only on the mounted judge ’ s or vet ’ s instructions. Stewards shall not give information or instructions to owners and competitors except as specifically instructed by the mounted judge or vet, and then only in such a manner that it is clear that the instructions are those of the mounted judge or vet.

A course steward shall be provided who will, acting on the vet ’ s and the mounted judge ’ s instructions, be responsible for maintaining an orderly flow of teams into the Start/Finish vet check Point and then onto the course. The course steward shall also record the time the competitor takes to complete the endurance portion of the course. The course steward shall verify the timings recorded on the aggregate score sheet.

Official Score Book
The Official Score Book shall be kept by the Carriage Dog Trial organisers and shall contain an aggregate score sheet for each team entered in a Carriage Dog Trial.

No person other than the Scorer, one of the mounted judges or vet may make any entry in the Official Score Book. Officials may enter into the Book only the information assigned to them by these Regulations. The scorer shall transfer the scores from the mounted judge(s) and vet sheets onto the official aggregate score sheets; copy the official start and finish time of each team and deduct the mid-point vet check time from the total time. All final scores must be entered in the Official Book by the Scorer, re-verified and signed by the mounted judge(s), vet, and course steward, before prizes are awarded. Copies of the aggregate score sheets in the Official Book shall be made available through the Carriage Dog Trial Scorers for examination by owners, competitors, and spectators after the completion of the Trial. If the aggregate scorecards are distributed by the organisers after the prizes are awarded, they must contain no more information than is shown in the Official Score Book, and must be marked "Unofficial Score".

CHAPTER 2 - Overall Regulations for Performance
2.1 Time Limits and Official Start Time In the Bronze, Silver and Gold classes, the timing of the endurance portion shall begin after completion of the obedience exercises. If the speed exercise must be held farther along the course with a separate mounted judge, then the recorded time shall begin after the mounted judge has completed judging his/her four exercises. The official start time of the endurance portion of each team shall be recorded by the course steward, and shall be marked on the aggregate score sheet.

The official finish time of each team shall be recorded as the team crosses the finish line, and before the final vet check. All dogs must be in hock or axle through the start and finish.

Commands [ Clarify re. bronze v higher classes ]
Whenever a command is mentioned in these Regulations, a single verbal command by the competitor is preferable, although extra commands may be permissible. Any extra commands including hand signals, if needed to keep the dog(s) under control, will be scored accordingly. A competitor may praise his/her dog(s) during an exercise, or use a voice correction, but this should not be excessive. Delay in following a mounted judge ’ s order to give a command must be penalized, unless the mounted judge, because of some distraction or interference, directs the delay. Any unusual noise or motion may be considered a correction. Each dog ’ s name may be used once immediately before any verbal command. Commands, which in the mounted judge ’ s opinion are excessively loud or gruff, will be penalized.

Coaching Certificate and Bronze Class: In all the obedience tests for the Coaching Certificate, Bronze Road Dog and Bronze Carriage Dog classes, extra commands and encouragement will not be penalised. This is designed to help the novice dogs in their work and to set down a solid foundation on which to build for future tests at a higher level. Commands offering positive reinforcement of a dog ’ s response to a command are allowed. Disobedience by the dog and re-commands necessary to counter disobedience will be penalised in accordance with each test description at the discretion of the judge.

Food
A competitor may not carry or offer food for his/her dog(s) on the obedience or endurance course but may arrange in advance for a snack for his/her dog(s) to be at the mid-point vet check, or the organisers may offer a snack for dog(s) at the mid-point vet check.

Hock/Axle Position
Carriage: Axle position as used in these regulations shall mean that the dog shall be in a semicircle behind the horse ’ s head in line with the direction in which the horse and carriage are facing, and as close as practicable without crowding or obstructing the horse ’ s motion and within one horse ’ s length of the carriage. The dog may be running under, behind, or next to the carriage, but it is of paramount importance that the dog should be running in a position that is both safe and comfortable.

Road: Hock position as used in these Regulations means that the dog shall be in a semi-circle behind the horse ’ s head in line with the direction in which the competitor and horse are facing and as close as practicable without crowding or obstructing the horse ’ s motion and within one horse ’ s length of the horse. The dog shall not go ahead of the horse ’ s head during the Hock or Distraction exercises.

Dogs on a team with multiple entries shall not be penalized for allowing space for other dogs in Hock/Axle position.

Orders and Minimum Penalties
The orders for the exercises and the standards for judging are set out in Chapter 8. The list of faults is not intended to be complete, but the more common and serious faults are specified. There is no maximum limit on penalties. A dog that makes none of the errors listed may still fail to qualify or may be scored zero for other reasons that were not specifically stated in Chapter 8, but these faults shall be described on the mounted judges ’ score sheets.

Vet Check Points
The gaiting portion of the Start/Finish vet soundness exams shall ideally be conducted in an outdoor area at least 8 metres square, preferably no more than ½km from the start. The Mid-Point vet check shall be conducted as close to the approximate mid-point of the course as practicable. The ground in both cases shall be as clean and level as practical, and any grass should be cut short. The organisers will provide leads and water for dogs and horses, at each of the vet checkpoints.

Warm-Up
A starting and finish line shall be designated. After leaving the starting line and before beginning the exercises, each team shall be allowed at least half a kilometre to warm-up. This warm-up distance may be measured as part of the overall distance.

Overall Course Layout
The course must be marked with legible and tamper and weather resistant trail markers. The course must also be marked with distance markers (i.e. "1 km", "2 km etc.) Water must be available for dogs at a minimum of every 3-4 kilometres. Course layout is at the Carriage Dog Trial organiser ’ s discretion, and any portion of the course may be repeated in order for competitors to fulfil the required distances. It shall be the responsibility of the organisers to attempt to secure a site that is appropriate for both road and carriage classes. A separate course for the endurance portion of the Trial may be provided for driven vehicles if necessary. In all classes, each team shall complete the obedience exercises on the same course.

Course Layout, Obedience Exercises
A specific area shall be designated for the mounted judge to conduct the exercises under his/her jurisdiction. It is preferable that the portion of the Carriage Dog Trial under jurisdiction of the mounted judge be as close to the starting line as possible allowing for the correct warm-up distance.

Coaching Certificate and Bronze classes: The hock exercise for the coaching certificate and bronze exercises shall consist of a 100 metre distance. The axle coaching certificate shall consist of a 100 metre distance. The bronze axle exercise shall consist of a 200 metre distance. The exercise shall all be at the trot and shall follow an approximate straight line, as much is practicable. The exercise shall be marked at the start and finish.

Silver classes: The hock exercise shall be at the trot with one turn for a total of 200 metres. The axle exercise shall be at walk and trot with one turn for a total of 200 metres. The exercise shall be marked at the start and finish.

Gold classes: The hock/axle exercise shall consist of a figure 8 for a total distance of 200 metres, when practicable, or a 200 metre distance with at least two turns. The hock exercise shall be at the trot. The axle exercise shall be at walk and trot. The exercise shall be marked and flagged at the start, turns, and finish, at the discretion of the organisers.

All classes: In the distraction exercise, each team must continue past the distraction for about 20 metres.

These markers shall serve as a general guide, and the mounted judge ’ s orders shall in all cases take precedence over the location of the trail markers.

The start and finish of the recall, distraction and stay exercises shall be at the discretion of the mounted judge.

Course Layout, Speed Exercise
A specific area of the course shall be designated for the speed exercise. If the mounted judge is to be the only mounted judge, the speed exercise must be located within or directly adjacent to the area provided for the other exercises. If a second judge (course judge) is provided, it is preferable, but not required that the portion of the Trial course designated for the speed exercise be as close as possible to the section of the course that was used for completion of the obedience exercises.

For the speed exercise, there shall markers indicating the start and the finish of the one hundred metre distance. The ground shall not go downhill, but shall be flat, or cover a gentle upward slope, shall be as smooth as possible, and free of holes or other hazards. The mounted judge of the speed exercise shall be situated in such a way as to not frighten the horse, preferably at a mid-way, elevated point, and his steward(s) shall be instructed to remain quiet and still during this exercise.

Spectator Area
The organisers must designate and mark an area for spectators that will allow viewing without distraction of or interfere with the performance of the competitors or their dogs or horses while they are being judged. If this is in the obedience area signs must be displayed which prohibit non competition dogs from the vicinity.

Course Check Points
There shall be at least two stewards or sign-in sheets posted along the course at whatever points deemed necessary by the Trial organisers in order to verify each team ’ s completion of the required distance.

Review of Course
Whenever possible, the organisers shall conduct a review of the course with the competitors, judge(s), and, if possible, vet(s) on the day before the Carriage Dog Trial, and shall notify the competitors of the time and date of this course review within two weeks of the Trial. It shall be the competitor ’ s responsibility to arrive at the Carriage Dog Trial site in time to attend this course review. The organisers shall not be required to conduct subsequent reviews for competitors who fail to attend the scheduled review.

The British Carriage Dog Society Titles
The British Carriage Dog Society shall award titles to the owner(s) of each dog that qualifies in an approved Trial. It shall be the responsibility of the organisers to prepare any certificates, rosettes or medals to represent these titles under the direction of the British Carriage Dog Society.

Carriage Dog Trial Rosettes
Rosettes will be offered for first to third places in the Bronze, Silver and Gold classes at any Carriage Dog Trial. Qualifying rosettes shall be offered for each dog that passes the Coaching Certificate Test and each dog that qualifies in Bronze, Silver or Gold at any Carriage Dog Trial.

Prizes and Awards
All official rosettes and trophies shall be awarded only to dogs that earn a pass rating in the Coaching Certificate Test or a qualifying score in a Bronze, Silver or Gold class in a Carriage Dog Trials. Awards for the three places in each class shall be based solely on the number of points earned. At the Carriage Dog Trial organiser ’ s discretion, a certificate, ribbon of participation or other form of recognition or prize may be awarded to dogs and/or competitors who competed in the Carriage Dog Trial but who did not receive pass rating or a qualifying score. Other prizes or awards may be offered at the discretion of the organisers.

All prizes and awards at regional competitions must be in line with awards the national competition except in exceptional circumstances when any variations must be agreed with the BCDS prior to the schedule being published.

Championships
At the National Competition the Carriage and Road dogs receiving the highest qualifying score overall from the Silver and Gold classes (excluding groom handled dogs) shall be awarded the championship and any awards and prizes offered for this placement.

Best Condition Dog Award
At each Trial there shall be an award for the competing dog which, in the opinion of the Start/Finish vet, is in the best condition. The vet shall base his/her decision on the information gained from the start, finish and mid-point vet checks combined with his/her professional assessment of the overall condition of each dog. This award will be for dogs in the Silver and Gold class and will be awarded at the discretion of the organisers.

CHAPTER 5 - Regulations for Carriage Dog Trial Canine and Equine Veterinary Checks
The organisers shall provide sufficient licensed vets and veterinary help to be utilised at their discretion to enable the vet checks to be conducted successfully. When ever possible at least one of the vets shall be in attendance at the vet check during the entire progress of the Trial. The canine vet will have ultimately responsibility for the welfare of the dogs and the equine vet ultimate responsibility for the welfare of the horses.

Canine Vets
Each dog in the silver and gold classes shall be vet-checked at the start of the competition, the approximate mid-point, and the finish of the endurance course. The bronze dogs shall be examined at the beginning and end of their trial.

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Requirements Any qualified veterinarian may act as a veterinary judge at a Carriage Dog Trial, as chosen by the Trial organisers. It is the responsibility of the organisers to provide the vet with information regarding the judging of the condition of dogs at a Trial, as well as clear criteria to aid consistent assessment of each dog (see 5.4). The vet shall also be made aware of the relevance of the vet score to the final competitor score.======

Overall Duties and Responsibilities The duties and responsibilities of vets shall apply to dogs competing and shall include:

 * giving advisory opinions to the mounted judges when requested
 * examining the health and well-being of dogs
 * evaluating the fitness of dogs to begin and/or continue in the Trial
 * assessing the condition of dogs at the end of the Trial
 * rendering medical attention to dogs in cases of sickness or injury occurring at the Trial which will be at the competitor ’ s expense.

The vets shall not be called upon to treat dogs for physical conditions that existed before they were brought to the Trial. Any vet serving at a Trial will have complete authority to:


 * disqualify any dog from competing when such competition would endanger the dog ’ s health
 * disqualify any dog which he considers may endanger the health or welfare of other dogs or persons
 * disqualify any dog who is blind or deaf to the extent that it is, in the opinion of the organisers or vet, unable to participate in the competition safely
 * disqualify any dog that attacks any person, horse, or other dog as described in Chapter 1.14 of these Regulations
 * disqualify any competitor or competitor ’ s escort who abuses his dog(s) or who uses foul or abusive language
 * disqualify any bitch in season

Any serving veterinary helper who believes a dog or competitor should be removed from the competition for any of the above reasons shall consult with the vet. The vet may then disqualify the dog(s) and/or competitor(s) for the above reasons if s/he deems it necessary.

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Assessment In addition to the overall duties and responsibilities, it shall be the responsibility of the vet to check the condition and soundness of each dog(s) both before each animal begins the course and after each animal finishes the course, and to score the dog ’ s condition at the finish. The first evaluation shall serve to establish======


 * the animal ’ s health and soundness before being allowed to compete, and
 * a baseline for comparison for the final evaluation for each animal.

The vet shall observe and record the following criteria:


 * temperature
 * pulse
 * respiration
 * pads
 * capillary refill rate
 * hydration
 * gait-coordination and soundness
 * musculature
 * any other tests, as s/he may deem necessary,

and indicate these on the score sheet.

These observations shall be recorded immediately upon examination, and before starting to examine any other dog. The vet ’ s observations shall be recorded on a separate sheet for each dog.

5.5 Scoring The vet shall rate the dog ’ s condition at the Starting vet check with an overall rating of either Pass or Fail. Any dog that receives a "Fail" rating at the Starting vet check shall be removed from further competition at that trial. The vet shall rate the dog ’ s condition at the final vet check, with an overall rating of either Pass or Fail, and a score on a scale of 0 – 100, with 0 – 50 being a "Fail", and 51-100 being a "Pass". When scoring a dog after the Final vet check, the vet shall compare the baseline information recorded for each dog on the Start/Finish score sheet, the information recorded on the Mid-Point vet score sheet, and the condition of the dog at the Final vet check, in order to rate each dog ’ s overall condition.

The vet shall report the Pass/Fail Starting vet check evaluation, and the score and Pass/Fail of his Final vet check evaluation to the Scorer after he has evaluated all of the teams.

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Mid Point duties and responsibilities In addition to the overall duties and responsibilities, it shall be the responsibility of the midpoint vet or authorised person to check and record the condition and soundness of each silver and gold dog at a designated check point, to observe each dog during a rest period of at least five minutes but not more than 30 minutes, to record the "time in" and "time out" of each team, and to report these records to the official Scorer. This evaluation shall serve to determine each animal ’ s health and soundness before being allowed to continue on the course. The Mid-Point vet shall observe and record the same criteria for each dog on the score sheet immediately and before starting to examine any other dog. In the case of more than one team arriving at the Mid-Point check at the same time, the temperatures of all dogs shall be taken and recorded immediately, starting with the dog(s) on the team with the earliest start time. (Except in an emergency, horses shall be checked after the observations for all dogs have been recorded.) The dog ’ s condition shall be given an overall rating of either "Pass" or "Fail". The Mid-Point vet shall report the Pass/Fail rating for each dog into the Official Score Book after s/he has judged all the teams and returned to the starting area. Any dog which receives a "Fail" rating after 30 minutes at the Mid-Point vet check, shall be removed by the Mid-Point vet from further competition at that Trial.======

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Timing of the Mid-Point Vet Check Immediately upon the arrival of each team at the Mid-Point vet check, the vet or his steward will immediately record on the score sheet the "time in" for each team, and advise the competitor of the time recorded. This shall serve as the official start time of the rest period. The length of this rest period for each team shall be at the discretion of the vet, within the constraints of these Regulations, depending upon the condition of the animals on the team. At the discretion of the Mid-Point vet, i.e. particularly hot and/or humid days, the vet may order a standardized rest period for all teams, but not for more than 30 minutes. It shall be the responsibility of the Mid-Point Vet to advise the competitor of each team how long a rest period has been ordered, and what the official "time out" will be. This time shall be deducted from the competitor ’ s total course time. Competitors are encouraged to request notification of "time in/timeout" times recorded.======

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Standardised vet assessments The same methods and standards must be used for rating dogs in the silver and gold classes. The vets shall aim to give standardised examinations and assessments. A competitor familiar with these Regulations should be able to enter the checkpoints knowing what checks the vet shall conduct on his dog(s). In the case of a dog that is in the vet ’ s opinion under stress or incapable of continuing, the animal must be removed from competition. The vet may conduct additional non-invasive tests on the dog other than what is specified in these Regulations in order to determine the animal ’ s health and soundness. Time required for any additional tests shall be subtracted from the team ’ s total course time. The opinion of the vet shall be final.======

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Qualifying Condition The vet ’ s certification in the Official Score Book of a Qualifying Score/Pass Rating for any particular dog constitutes their mutual certification to the Carriage Dog Society that the dog has performed all of the required tests in accordance with the minimum standards and that its performance would justify the awarding of a Carriage or Road Dog bronze, silver or gold certificate. Any dog that, in the opinion of the vet, requires more than a 30 minute rest period at the Mid-Point vet check shall be removed from further competition at that Trial.======

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0 Announcement of vet check Pass/Fail Rating Each vet shall notify each competitor of the Pass/Fail status of each dog as soon as the assessment has been completed, and the results entered on the score sheets. The vet shall not disclose the points awarded each dog at the finish.======

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Best Condition Dog Award At each Trial there shall be an award for the competing dog which, in the opinion of the Canine Vet, is in the best condition. The vet shall base his/her decision on the information gained from the start, finish and mid-point vet checks combined with his/her professional assessment of the overall condition of each dog. This award will be for dogs in the Silver and Gold class and will be awarded at the discretion of the organisers.======

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Equine Vets Where a Trial offers a silver or gold class the organisers should provide an equestrian vet to examine all the horses competing at those levels if it is deemed necessary for the horse ’ s welfare. Any horses covering a distance of 20 kilometres or more may also be examined at the discretion of the organisers or vet. Any check will be designed to avoid undue stress and abuse to a horse, whether by ignorance or intent.======

Overall Duties and Responsibilities The duties and responsibilities of vets shall apply to horses eligible for checks and shall include:

 * giving advisory opinions to the mounted judges when requested
 * examining the health and well-being of horses
 * evaluating the fitness of horses to begin and/or continue in the Trial
 * assessing the condition of horses at the end of the Trial, in particular "fitness to travel"
 * rendering medical attention to horses in cases of sickness or injury occurring at the Trial which will be at the expense of the competitor or owner
 * The vets shall not be called upon to treat horses for physical conditions that existed before they were brought to the Trial.

Any vet serving at a Trial will have complete authority to remove from competition:


 * any horse which s/he considers a danger to any persons or animals present
 * any competitor or competitor ’ s escort who abuses his horse(s) or who uses foul or abusive language

Any veterinary helper serving at a Trial who believes a horse or competitor should be removed from the competition for any of the above reasons shall consult with the vet. The vet may then disqualify the horse(s) and/or competitor(s) for the above reasons if s/he deems it necessary.

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Assessment In addition to the overall duties and responsibilities, it shall be the responsibility of the vet to check the condition and soundness of each horse(s) both before each animal begins the course and after each animal finishes the course, and to evaluate the horse ’ s condition at the finish. The first evaluation shall serve to establish the animal ’ s health and soundness before being allowed to compete, and a baseline for comparison for the final evaluation for each animal.======

The vet shall observe and record the following criteria:


 * pulse
 * respiration
 * capillary refill rate
 * gait-soundness and coordination
 * temperature- if weather conditions deem this advisable
 * feet/shoes
 * hydration
 * lesions

any other tests may be taken as deemed necessary, and indicated on the score sheet.

These observations shall be recorded immediately upon examination, and before starting to examine any other horse. The vet ’ s observations shall be recorded on a separate sheet for each horse.

Except in an emergency, horses shall be checked after the observations for the competing dog have been recorded. The horse ’ s condition shall be given an overall rating of either "Pass" or "Fail".

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Timing of the Mid-Point Vet Check The equine vet should note the length of the rest period for each team shall be at the discretion of canine vet, within the constraints of these Regulations, depending upon the condition of the animals on the team. It shall be the responsibility of the Mid-Point Canine Vet to advise the competitor of each team how long a rest period has been ordered, and what the official "time out" will be. This time shall be deducted from the competitor ’ s total course time. The horses will be vet checked during this time. Any horse which receives a "Fail" rating after 30 minutes at the Mid-Point vet check, shall be removed from further competition at that Trial.======

Best Condition Horse Award
At any Trial there may, at the organisers ’ discretion, be an award for the horse which, in the opinion of the Equine Vet, is in the best condition. If there is such an award the vet shall base his/her decision on the information gained from the start, finish and mid-point vet checks combined with his/her professional assessment of the overall condition of each horse. This award will be for horses that have completed both the obedience and endurance elements in a Silver or Gold class and awarded at the vets discretion. Because the presence of an equine vet is discretionary and will depend on a number of factors, including the number and level of entries in each discipline and the condition of the course, horses may not be vetted at every trial and that consequently there will not always be a Best Condition Horse award.

Requirements for Mounted Judges
The organisers will secure a mounted judge or judges, and vet or vets, to be utilised at the organisers ’ discretion to enable the Trial to be conducted successfully.

The mounted judge will judge the hock/axle, distraction, recall and stay and may judge the speed exercise. If a course judge is assigned, the course judge will judge the speed exercise.

The mounted judge must:

1.a) be a recognised Kennel Club or affiliated society judge

OR

1.b) have grandfather rights*

OR

1.c) have stewarded in the obedience field on at least two occasions

OR

1.d) have qualified a dog at a British Carriage Dog Society sanctioned trials at Silver or Gold level

OR

1.e) have qualified a dog at a British Carriage Dog Society sanctioned trials at Bronze level and stewarded in the obedience field on at least one occasion


 * AND

2. have experience either in owning, breeding, showing, or training Dalmatians

3. have a working knowledge of the obedience exercises and judging regulations

4. be a competent equestrian

5. have attended at least two trials

The course judge must:

1.a) be a recognised Kennel Club or affiliated society judge

OR

1.b) have grandfather rights*

OR

1.c) have stewarded in the obedience field

OR

1.d) have qualified a dog at a British Carriage Dog Society sanctioned trials at bronze level

AND

2. have experience either in owning, breeding, showing, or training Dalmatians

3. have a working knowledge of the judging regulations for the speed exercise

4. have attended at least two trials

Organisers should apply to the British Carriage Dog Society for a list of approved judges.

Standardized Judging
Standardized judging is of paramount importance. Mounted judges are not permitted to inject their own variations into the exercises, but must see that each competitor and dog executes the various exercises exactly as described in these Regulations. A competitor familiar with these Regulations should be able to enter the course under any mounted judge without having to enquire how the particular mounted judge wishes to have any exercise performed and without being confronted with some unexpected requirement. No mounted judge shall require any dog or competitor to do anything, nor penalize a dog or competitor for failing to do anything, that is not required by these Regulations.

The same methods and standards must be used for judging and scoring dogs in the Silver and Gold classes. The judge must also standardize judging within the Coaching Certificate and the Bronze test.

Standard of Perfection
The Carriage Dog Trial mounted judge(s) must carry a mental picture of the theoretically perfect performance in each exercise and score against this visualized standard which shall combine the utmost in willingness, enjoyment, and precision on the part of the dog, and naturalness, gentleness, and smoothness in handling. Lack of willingness or enjoyment on the part of the dog must be penalized, as must lack of precision in the dog ’ s performance, aggression by the dog, and/or roughness in handling or commands by the competitor.

Qualifying Performance
The mounted judges ’ certification in the Official Score Book of a qualifying score for any particular dog constitutes his/her certification to the British Carriage Dog Society that the dog has performed all of the required exercises at least in accordance with the minimum standards for the relevant award. In deciding whether a faulty performance warrants a qualifying score, the mounted judge shall consider whether the awarding of a Carriage Dog Trial title would be justified if all dogs in the class performed the exercise in a similar manner. The mounted judge must not give a qualifying score for the exercise if he/she decides that it would be contrary to the best interests of the sport if all dogs in the class were to perform in the same way.

Mounted Judge ’ s Directions
The mounted judges ’ orders and signals should be given to the competitors in a clear and understandable manner, but in such a way that the work of the dog is not disturbed. The mounted judge shall take care that his/her horse does not come so close to any of the dogs as to interfere with any exercise. Before starting the exercises the mounted judge shall state, "This will be the (particular) exercise, are you ready?" The competitor should then respond, "Yes," or "No." If the competitor is not ready, the mounted judge will give the competitor a reasonable amount of time to prepare, and then ask the question again. For the Speed exercise, an official course steward may be used to give the signal on order from the mounted judge, the steward will state, "This will be the Speed exercise, are you ready?" The competitor will then respond. If the competitor is not ready, the mounted judge will give the competitor a reasonable amount of time to prepare, and then proceed. At the end of each exercise, the mounted judge shall say, "Exercise finished." At the end of the Speed exercise, there shall be a trail marker, which indicates the end of the exercise. After each exercise, the mounted judge shall advise the competitor if any dog on the team has failed the exercise, and the competitor shall be given the option of continuing on the course. The mounted judge is not required to explain his scoring and need not enter into any discussion with any competitor who appears dissatisfied. (See also chapter 6.12)

The judging of an exercise will begin when the mounted judge, or official course steward in the case of the Speed exercise, gives the first order, not before.

Interference and Double Handling
Any mounted judge, who is aware of any assistance, interference, or attempt to control a dog by anyone other than the competitor, must act promptly to stop such double handling, and shall penalize or fail the dog as the circumstances warrant.

Re-judging
If a dog has failed in a particular part of an exercise, it shall not ordinarily be re-judged nor given a second chance. If, in the mounted judge ’ s opinion, however, the dog ’ s performance was prejudiced by peculiar and unusual conditions, the mounted judge may, at his own discretion, re-judge the dog on the entire exercise.

Ties and Run-offs
In case of a tie for any prize, or for the championship, the dog with the highest veterinary score will be placed the highest.

0 Official Score Book and Mounted Judges ’ Score Sheets
The mounted judge(s) must enter each dog ’ s performance on their score sheets immediately after judging each team, and before starting to judge the next team. The mounted judge may also act as scorer when s/he has finished judging and should transfer the scores onto the official aggregate score sheets as described in chapter 1.18. Mounted judges may use separate score sheets or a tape recorder for their own purposes, but shall not give out or allow competitors to see such sheets or hear such recordings, nor give out any other written scores, nor permit anyone else to distribute score sheets or cards prepared by the mounted judge. If the organisers distributes scorecards, they must contain no more information than is shown on the aggregate score sheet and must be marked "Unofficial Score".

Announcement of Scores
No-one shall be required to disclose any score or partial score to contestants or spectators until the public announcement of scores, nor shall he/she permit anyone else to do so. After all the scores are given final verification, the course steward, after consulting with the mounted judge(s), shall call for the dogs that have won qualifying scores to be brought to the awards table. If at all possible, all mounted judges and vets shall be present during the announcement of scores. Before awarding the prizes, the maximum number of points for a perfect score shall be announced, followed by the score of each prize-winner, and the score of each dog that has achieved a qualifying score.

Explanation and Errors
No mounted judge or vet is required to explain his scoring, and need not enter into any discussion with any competitor who appears to be dissatisfied. The mounted judge or vet is encouraged to offer comment to interested competitors about the performance of a dog at their discretion. Any person who thinks there may have been an arithmetical error, or an error in identifying a dog, may report the facts to the start/finish steward and to the organisers so that the matter may be checked and cleared up. Objections must be made in writing to the organisers with in half an hour of the occurrence, accompanied by £20 which may at the discretion of the show committee be forfeited if the objection is disallowed.

CHAPTER 7 - Carriage Dog Trial Classes
The following classes may be scheduled:

Carriage Dog Gold

Carriage Dog Gold (Groom Handler)

Road Dog Gold

Carriage Dog Silver

Carriage Dog Silver (Groom Handler)

Road Dog Silver

Carriage Dog Bronze

Carriage Dog Bronze (Groom Handler)

Road Dog Bronze

Coaching Certificate (Road or Carriage)

All classes at regional competitions must be in line with awards the national competition except in exceptional circumstances when any variations must be agreed with the BCDS prior to the schedule being published.

Eligibility and General Requirements
Bronze Class

Any dog may be entered at Bronze level. Dogs previously qualified at Silver and Gold level may be entered in the Bronze class of the same discipline and will be judged and scored in accordance with the rules, but will not be awarded a place.

Silver Class

Any dog may be entered at silver level.

Gold Class

Only dogs previously qualified at Silver level in the same discipline may be entered at Gold Level.

Road and Carriage Certificate Tests

A Road or Carriage Certificate Test shall be offered at all Carriage Dog Trials. A dog may not be entered in the Road or Carriage Certificate Test and a Bronze, Silver or Gold class of the same discipline at the same Trial. Any entered dog that has not yet earned a Road or Carriage Dog title and receives a qualifying score in each of the judged exercises, but fails to complete the course, shall be awarded the Road or Carriage Certificate. The Road or Carriage Certificate Tests shall be conducted after all entrants for other classes have completed the obedience exercises, all exercises are to be judged pass/fail. No vet checks are required, but the mounted judge may remove a dog from competition as provided in the Regulations Chapter 1.14 To earn the Coaching Certificate Title, a dog must earn a "Pass" rating in all five obedience exercises. The exercises shall be performed on the same course as the Bronze, Silver and Gold classes, and shall be conducted in the same manner as the exercises for these classes.

Dogs that have previously qualified at a higher level to a class they wish to enter must enter Not For Competition.

Any dog may be entered Qualification Only to qualify for a title but will be outside all aspects of the competition.

Dogs must complete the required endurance component separately for each class entered i.e. endurance trials may not be combined to enable entry in multiple classes.

General Requirements
Carriage or Road Dog Bronze:

Dogs entered in the Bronze class shall be required to pass:


 * an initial vet check
 * a qualifying score in all of the five obedience exercises
 * 10 km within a time limit of 80 minutes
 * A qualifying score at the final vet check

Carriage or Road Dog Silver

Dogs entered in the Silver class shall be required to pass:


 * an initial vet exam
 * a qualifying score in all of the five obedience exercises
 * 20 km within a time limit of three hours excluding the time required for the Mid-Point vet check
 * A qualifying score at the final vet check

Carriage or Road Dog Gold Dogs entered in the Gold Class shall be required to pass:


 * an initial vet check
 * a qualifying score in all of the five obedience exercises
 * 40 km within a time limit of 6 hours, excluding the time required for the Mid-Point vet check
 * A qualifying score at the final vet check

It is the responsibility of the competitor to properly condition each dog to compete at this distance within this time frame.

Titles
The British Carriage Dog Society shall award titles to any dog that earns an overall "Pass" rating in the classes.

Non-Regular Classes
The organisers may hold non-regular classes at their discretion. Such classes should be listed in the schedule for the Trial. No titles will be awarded for non-regular classes. The organisers may offer prizes, ribbons, and awards for these classes at their discretion.

Exercises and Scoring
The exercises for all classes are:

The scoring for each of the exercises 1-5 is:

Score 51-100 = Pass

Score 0-50 = Fail

n.b. The Coaching Certificate exercises receive no score, but to gain the title a dog must receive a "Pass" rating in all exercises.

The scoring for the start and midpoint tests is pass or fail

The scoring for the final vet check is: 51-100 points = Pass/ 0-50 points = Fail

At the discretion of the mounted judge, the Hock/Axle, Distraction, Recall, and Stay exercises may be judged in any order. The Speed exercise shall be judged last.

Starting, Mid-Point, and Final Vet Checks
The principle feature of the vet checks is to determine that the dog is in sound condition before beginning the course, while traversing the course, and after completing the course. These tests shall be conducted by the vet(s) as described in Chapter 5. There shall be stewards at the vet check points available to hold the competitor ’ s horse(s), so that the competitor may assist the vet with the dog(s) during the examination. On request from the vet, the competitor shall hold his dog while the vet shall conduct any tests he/she deems necessary, as described in Chapter 5, and indicate the results on a score sheet. The competitor shall then gait each dog, on instruction from the vet, so that the vet can check for any signs of lameness. At the Mid-Point vet check, each team shall be allowed a rest period of at least 5 minutes, but not to exceed 30 minutes, as described in Chap. 5.7.

Any dog that, in the vet ’ s opinion, requires more than a 30 minute rest period shall be removed from further competition in the Trial. The vet shall also check each horse for any signs of stress or lameness, and any horse that, in the vet ’ s opinion, requires more than a 30 minute rest period shall be removed from further competition in the Trial. Another horse may be substituted if such horse is available within a reasonable time frame, as described in Chapter 1.14.

Starting and Mid-point Vet Checks: Scoring
No points are awarded at the Starting vet check and the Mid-Point vet check. The Starting and Mid-Point checks are "Pass/Fail". A dog must receive a "Fail" and will be removed from further competition in the Trial if it exhibits any lameness or excessive stress during these tests as described in Chapter 5. If the vet is satisfied that a dog ’ s condition is sound after conducting the tests, he/she shall give the dog a "Pass" rating.

Final Vet Check: Scoring
At the Final vet check, each dog will receive a score of up to 100 points. A dog must receive a "Fail" (0-50) if, in the opinion of the Start/Finish vet, the dog is in distress and needs immediate medical attention. If the vet is satisfied that a dog ’ s condition is sound after conducting the tests, he shall give the dog a "Pass" (51-100) rating. When scoring a dog after the Final vet check, the Start/Finish vet shall compare the baseline information recorded for each dog on the Start/Finish score sheet, the information recorded on any Mid-Point vet score sheet, and the condition of the dog at the Final vet check, in order to rate each dog ’ s overall condition within a scale of 0-100 points.

A dog required by the vet to rest for the maximum time at the mid-point vet check should be awarded a minimum vet score.

Hock/Axle Exercise
Carriage:

The principal feature of this exercise is to test the ability of the dog to stay close to the horse and carriage when required. The Axle Exercise for the Coaching Certificate class shall be at trot over a distance of 100 metres, in as straight a line as is practicable, if the terrain permits. The Axle Exercise for the bronze class shall be trot over 200 metres in as straight a line as is practicable, if the terrain permits. The Axle Exercise for the silver class shall be at walk and trot over a distance of 200 metres with one turn. The Axle Exercise for the gold class shall be at walk and trot over a distance of 200 metres in a figure of eight, or with at least two turns. Markers shall serve as a general guide, but the mounted judge ’ s orders shall in all cases take precedence over their location. Orders for the exercise are, "This will be the Axle Exercise, are you ready?" "Commence the Exercise" and "Exercise Finished". The mounted judge shall standardize as much as practical the place on the course that each dog is required to work. The mounted judge will announce the exercise and asks if the competitor is ready. When the competitor replies, "Ready," or "Yes," the mounted judge will proceed with the orders. On the mounted judge ’ s order the competitor may give each dog a single command to fall into the Axle position, where the dog(s) shall remain while continuing forward. The competitor may praise his/her dog(s) as the team continues forward, and may give additional commands, if necessary, recognizing that additional commands and praise during exercises will be scored accordingly. The dog(s) shall remain in the Axle position, without swinging wide, lagging, forging ahead, or coming so close to the horse and carriage as to interfere with forward motion. At the approximate completion of the required distance, the mounted judge shall command "Exercise Finished". The mounted judge shall remain at least twenty metres away from any dog.

Road:

The principal feature of this exercise is to test the ability of the dog to stay close to the horse and competitor when required. The Hock Exercise for the Coaching Certificate and Bronze classes shall be at the trot over a distance of 100 metres, in as straight a line as is practicable, if the terrain permits. The Hock Exercise for the silver class shall be at the trot over a distance of 200 metres with one turn. The Hock Exercise for the gold class shall be at the trot over a distance of 200 metres in a figure of eight, or with at least two turns. Markers shall serve as a general guide, but the mounted judge ’ s orders shall in all cases take precedence over their location. Orders for the exercise are, "This will be the Hock Exercise, are you ready?" "Commence the exercise" and "Exercise Finished". The mounted judge shall standardize as much as practical the place on the course that each dog is required to "Hock ". When the mounted judge announces the exercise and asks if the competitor is ready, the mounted judge and competitor shall be moving forward. When the competitor replies, "Ready," or "Yes," the mounted judge will proceed with the orders. On the mounted judge ’ s order the competitor shall call each dog in and then give each dog a single command to fall into the Hock position, where the dog(s) shall remain while continuing forward. Once in Hock position, the competitor may begin a brisk trot with the mounted judge. The competitor may praise his/her dog(s) as the team continues forward, and may give additional commands, if necessary, recognizing that additional commands and praise during exercises will be scored accordingly. The dog(s) shall remain in Hock position, without swinging wide, lagging, forging ahead, or coming so close to the horse as to interfere with forward motion. At the approximate completion of the required distance, the mounted judge shall command "Exercise Finished". The mounted judge shall remain at least twenty metres away from any dog.

a Hock/Axle Exercise: Scoring
If a dog is unmanageable, or refuses to Hock/Axle, the dog must be scored zero on this exercise.

Substantial deductions shall be made for excessively loud or gruff commands or signals to Hock/Axle, or if a competitor adapts his horse ’ s pace to that of the dog. Substantial or minor deductions shall be made for such things as lagging, forging, interfering with the horse or vehicle ’ s forward movement, and/or going wide or excessive barking. Substantial deductions shall be made for a dog that goes ahead of the horse during this exercise, but who drops back into Hock/Axle position on command. Minor deductions may be made for repeated commands or praise during the Hock/Axle Exercise.

Distraction Exercise
The principal feature of this exercise is to demonstrate a dog ’ s ability to remain under the competitor ’ s voice control in the event of a distraction. Orders are, "This will be the Distraction Exercise, are you ready?" "Commence exercise" and "Exercise Finished." The Distraction Exercise may be judged at a trot, at the competitor ’ s discretion. On signal from the mounted judge, a hiker with a dog on a lead shall start walking toward the approaching competitor, but while remaining on the competitor ’ s right side, at least twenty metres away, while passing. The competitor shall continue forward with his dog(s) in Hock/Axle position from the previous exercise, and shall be allowed to command each dog to "Hock/Axle" when he has noticed the approaching distraction. When the competitor and his dog(s) have gone past the distraction dog approximately five metres, the mounted judge shall indicate that the exercise is finished, and the competitor may release his dog(s).

The distraction dog handler shall remain on the down-course side of the competing team until after the mounted judge has completed judging the remaining exercise(s) and has started back toward the course start.

a Distraction Exercise: Scoring
A dog must receive a score of zero if it attacks the on-coming hiker or dog, or if it disregards its competitor ’ s command to Hock/Axle. Substantial or minor deductions shall be made if a dog barks repeatedly at the distraction (a single warning bark shall not be penalized), if it starts to approach the distraction but comes back to Hock/Axle on command, if it displays shyness, or if it moves out of Hock/Axle Position. Minor deductions may be made for repeated commands or praise during the Distraction exercise.

Stay Exercise
Carriage - Whip Handlers: The principal feature of this exercise is to demonstrate the dog ’ s ability to wait under his handler ’ s control in a working position next to or under the carriage until released. The judge must establish if the dog is to be judged in sit, down or stand before the exercise begins.

The Orders are, "this will be the stay exercise", "are you ready", "last command", and "exercise finished". The groom should dismount before the exercise begins and stand at, or parallel with, the horse ’ s head, in accordance with the whip ’ s instructions and from where they may inform the whip of the dog ’ s behavior if required. On "last command" from the judge the competitor should give a last command to their dog(s). If more than one dog is judged at the same time for this exercise, a separate command may be given to each dog. The clock will start after the competitor has given the last command to their dog(s). The mounted judge and any competitor ’ s escort must remain at least 6 metres away from the dog(s). The exercise finishes when the steward calls "time".

Carriage - Groom Handlers: This test shall emulate the whip handlers ’ test except for the following provisions.

The groom handler will dismount the carriage and put the dog(s) into the desired working position. On "last command" from the judge, the competitor should give the last command to their dog(s) and go to a position at, or parallel with, the horse ’ s head (as previously agreed with the whip). Any re-commands shall be made from the groom ’ s position at the horse ’ s head. The exercise finishes when the steward calls "time". The groom handler may praise their dog and return to the carriage.

For both classes organisers must provide a steward to attend to the horse if the whip deems it necessary.

Road: The principal feature of this exercise shall be to demonstrate the dog ’ s ability to wait under his competitor ’ s control until released. The judge must establish in what position the dog is to be judged in before the exercise begins. Orders are, "This will be the stay exercise, are you ready?" "Commence the exercise" and "exercise finished." On order from the mounted judge, the competitor shall call his dog(s), command each dog. It shall be the competitor ’ s choice whether to command each dog to stand, sit, or to down, and different dogs on the same team may be given separate and/or different commands. After placing the dog(s), the competitor shall assure that his horse does not come so close to the dog(s) as to threaten their safety, while waiting for a period of one minute. The competitor must remain mounted for this exercise, but he/she may choose to move the horse(s) away from the dog(s) after the "Stay" command is given, as long as he/she does not interfere with the mounted judge ’ s line of vision. The mounted judge and any competitor ’ s escort must remain at least 6 metres away from the dog(s). Neither the competitor nor his/her escort shall move in any position that might interfere with the mounted judge ’ s line of vision during this exercise. If a dog gets up and starts to roam, or if a dog moves so as to interfere with another dog, the mounted judge shall promptly instruct one of the stewards to place the dog on a lead and take the dog aside and away from the other dogs on the team until the exercise is finished. After one minute from the time the competitor has given the "Stay" command, the mounted judge shall say, "Exercise Finished." The dog(s) should not move from the sit or down position until the competitor has released them after the mounted judge has said, "Exercise Finished."

a Stay Exercise: Scoring
During this exercise, the mounted judge ’ s horse shall stand in such position that all the dogs are in his line of vision, and where he can see the competitor without having to turn around. Scoring of this exercise shall begin as soon as the competitor responds "Yes," or "Ready," to the mounted judge ’ s question of "Are you ready?" Timing of the exercise shall begin after all dogs on the team have responded to the competitor ’ s command to sit, down or stand, and the competitor has given the command to "Stay". A competitor whose dog assumes a position in such a manner that it could interfere with an adjacent dog, or be too close to a horse for safety, shall be required to reposition his dog. A score of zero is required for the following: a dog ’ s refusing to Sit, Down or Stand, moving at any time during the exercise a substantial distance away from the place where it was left, or going over to any other dog. A substantial or minor deduction shall be made for a dog that moves a minor distance away from the place where it was left; for barking or whining during the exercise; for resisting its competitor ’ s commands or for or for overly loud or gruff commands. A minor deduction may be made for commands or praise repeated during this exercise or for a dog not remaining in the position that was commanded.

Willingness to Work/Recall Exercise
Carriage: Whip and Groom Handlers: These shall be scored against the same criteria.

Carriage-willingness to work: The principal feature of this test is to demonstrate the coaching dog ’ s enthusiasm for his work with the carriage. This is not a separate exercise, but rather an impression gained by the judge, during each exercise throughout the trial, of each dog ’ s approach to its work. This will be gained through observation of the dog ’ s work throughout each obedience test. It will include things like attitude, enjoyment, responsiveness to its handler, and general demeanour throughout the trial.

a Carriage - Willingness to work: Scoring
A dog must receive between 51 and 100 points for this exercise. It is not possible for a dog that has passed all it ’ s obedience exercises to fail this exercise. A dog will be deemed to be "willing to work" if it has received a pass score in each of the other obedience tests. Dogs must be scored according to the judge ’ s overall impression of the dog ’ s attitude to its work during each exercise throughout the trial. A dog which displays a reticence to work, an unhappy demeanour or any antipathy towards its handler may score low on this scale. A dog which displays a commitment to its work, a happy demeanour throughout, and a good relationship with its handler may score high on the scale.

Road-Recall: The principal feature of this exercise is that the dog responds promptly to the competitor ’ s command to "Come". Orders are, "This will be the Recall Exercise, are you ready?" "Call your dog," and, "Exercise Finished." When the dog has run naturally in front, or has dropped back a good distance behind the competitor ’ s horse(s), on order from the mounted judge, the competitor will give a command for each dog to come while his horse is still moving forward at a walk. Each dog must come straight in at a brisk trot or gallop to the competitor ’ s left or right side. On the mounted judge ’ s order, the competitor may release his dog. The mounted judge shall remain at least twenty metres away from the competitor ’ s horse(s).

b Recall Exercise: Scoring
A dog must be scored zero for failure to come when called. Substantial deductions shall be made for a slow response to the "Come", varying with the extent of the slowness, and for a dog that comes partially in and then runs away once again before being released by his competitor. Minor to substantial deductions shall be made for dogs whose competitors repeat the command to come, or who continue talking to the dog as it comes.

Speed Exercise
The principal feature of this exercise shall be to demonstrate a dog ’ s ability to exhibit a fair turn of speed, as described in the Kennel Club ’ s Standard for the breed. One such demonstration shall be sufficient. Orders are, "This will be the Speed Exercise, are you ready?" "Commence the exercise," and "Exercise finished" (which may be indicated by trail markers). On order from the mounted judge or a steward acting on signal from the mounted judge, the competitor shall commence the exercise. The total distance of the Speed Exercise shall be one hundred metres.

At the start of the measured distance and on order from the steward, the competitor shall increase his pace sufficient to demonstrate that the dog is capable of running at speed, allowing his dog(s) to run in any position they choose whilst remaining under control. When the competitor has passed the trail marker indicating the completion of this exercise, he shall reduce his speed. After completion of the Speed Exercise, the competitor shall look back to obtain a signal from the mounted judge. The team may be re-judged if the mounted judge does not deem that the horse ’ s speed was sufficient to determine the dog ’ (s) speed. At the completion of the exercise, the mounted judge will inform the competitor whether each dog has passed or failed this exercise. The mounted judge shall be situated in such a way as to not frighten the horse(s), preferably at a mid-way, elevated point. The mounted judge ’ s steward(s) shall be instructed to remain quiet and still during this exercise.

Carriage: The competitor will increase his pace at trot or canter, according to the competitor ’ s preference and ability, the size/pace of the equine(s), and the vehicle type, but sufficient to demonstrate the dog ’ s turn of speed. The organisers and judges must take into account the trial conditions, terrain and vehicle type. The dog must run in a position that is safe.

Road: The competitor will increase his pace at trot or canter, according to the competitor ’ s preference and ability and the size/pace of the equine(s), but sufficient to demonstrate the dog ’ s turn of speed. The organisers and judges must take into account the trial conditions and terrain. The dog must run in a position that is safe.

a Speed Exercise: Scoring
A dog shall be scored zero for not attempting to keep up with the horse(s) or vehicle, or if the competitor/horse does not exhibit any increase in speed. Substantial or minor deductions shall be made for nipping at the horse(s) or vehicle; for falling increasingly behind the horse(s) or vehicle; for repeated barking; or for a competitor who adjusts his horse ’ s pace to that of the dog(s).

0 Communication re. Pass or Fail
At the completion of each exercise, the mounted judge will inform the competitor whether each dog has passed or failed the particular Exercise.

'''These Regulations were originally developed by the Dalmatian Club of America. In 2003 the DCA gave permission to the organisers of the first British Carriage Dog Trials to adopt and adapt them. They were published in draft form in May 2005 by Alison Burgess, Joy Claxton, Michele Boys, Mike and Chris Cleland, and Anne Dickens.'''

Revised August 2006 Revised by the BCDS November 2007

Revised by the BCDS February 2008