Are event attendees required to adhere to specific coronavirus (COVID-19) guidelines?
We are working closely with the City of Chicago, including the Chicago Department of Public Health, to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all event attendees. Event guidance and/or requirements will follow local and state coronavirus (COVID-19) guidelines. We recognize this guidance is likely to change between now and the event. For this reason, specific guidelines for registered participants will be updated closer to the event date.
Will event attendees be required to show vaccination status to participate?
Event guidance and/or requirements will follow local and state coronavirus (COVID-19) guidelines, including vaccination documentation if needed. At this time there are no vaccination requirements set for outdoor events by the City of Chicago. We recognize guidance is likely to change between now and the event. For this reason, specific guidelines for registered participants will be updated closer to the event date.
Will event attendees be required to wear a face covering?
COVID requirements for the event will follow guidance and requirements from the City of Chicago.
All attendees are required to wear a mask while in tented areas. Masks must be two-ply at a minimum and cover the mouth and nose securely. Gaiters and face shields are not acceptable face coverings.
Participants are encouraged to wear masksduring the entirety of the event. Masks will be available (while supplies allow)for participants.
What does the walk support?
BARK is The Anti-Cruelty Society’s largest fundraiser of the year. All the proceeds benefit our programs and services that help animals. With a mission of building a healthy and happy community for pets and people, our comprehensive programs and services include: adoption, charity veterinary clinic, low or no-cost spay/neuter clinic, cruelty investigations and rescue, humane education & community outreach, a free behavior helpline, dog training classes, S.A.F.E. program (short-term accommodations for emergencies), The Bruckner Rehabilitation & Treatment Center, the Virginia Butts Berger Cat Clinic, and the Dog Rehabilitation Center. For more information, visit anticruelty.org or call (312) 644-8338.
What is the time of the event?
Walk in registration opens at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 21. Walk kicks off at 9:00 a.m. Event ends at 1:00 p.m.
Is the walk and event dog-friendly?
Yes, we encourage you to bring your dog(s) with you to BARK! Please make sure that your dog(s) is well-behaved, kept on-leash throughout the entire event, spay or neutered, and all shots and vaccines are updated. If your dog is easily agitated or stressed around other dogs and/or crowds, this might not be the best place for them.
Can I participate if I am not a dog owner?
Yes, everyone is welcome to participate! You do not need to have a dog or bring your dog along.
Do I have to participate in the walk?
No, you can hang out and enjoy the festivities while the walk is taking place. Can I walk with a stroller? Yes, strollers are allowed on the lakefront path, as well as in the event space. Please note that the event space is a grassy area.
I registered but now I can’t come to the walk. Can I get a refund or transfer my registration?
Yes, email bark@anticruelty.org to transfer or get a refund. Please note that it may take 3-5 business days to show up on your credit card statement.
Will there be refreshments on the course?
Water stations will be located at each mile marker along the walk’s path. Water stations and light snacks will also be provided after the walk for registered participants.
Will I be able to adopt a dog on event day?
Unfortunately, there will not be any available animals to adopt at BARK. If you are looking for a new companion, we encourage you to check out our available animals at www.anticruelty.org/adoptable or visit the Society’s River North adoption center at 510 N. LaSalle in Chicago or the South Loop Everyday Adoption Center located in the PetSmart at 1101 S. Canal in Chicago.
Will there be a bag check?
There will not be a bag check so please plan accordingly!
Can I volunteer at BARK?
Absolutely! To pull this off we’re going to need a lot of help! If you'd like more information about volunteering on event day, please email bark@anticruelty.org and we’ll be in touch shortly.
