Q. When is the challenge?
1st November – 30th November!
Q. I have more than one dog, can I have an extra bandana?
Unfortunately, we can only provide one bandana per fundraiser. However, you can buy extra bandanas on our website here!
Q. Are bandanas safe for my dog?
When fitting your dog’s bandana please ensure that the bandana is safely and comfortably fitted so that it does not restrict the dog’s breathing or movement. Ideally, once secured the bandana should be snug but with enough room to fit two fingers between your dog’s neck and the bandana. For your dog’s safety we recommend that you do not leave your dog unattended or allow it off lead outside whilst wearing a bandana. Please ensure your dog is supervised at all times whilst wearing a dog bandana. If the bandana becomes damaged, please discontinue use. Keep bandanas away from naked flames. The Bone Cancer Research Trust accept no liability for any loss or injury caused to your dog by the use of any of our products.
Q. How do I keep track of my progress?
That’s up to you! You can use the manual tracker you'll receive with your beanie and dog bandana where you can write down the amount of steps you complete each day!
You don’t have to be completely accurate, but most people use their fitness watch, GPS device or a fitness app to track their steps.
We recommend Strava: a popular and free tracking app. We have a group you can join too!
Q. I have a puppy, can I still take part?
As puppies are so young and will be able to handle less exercise, we recommend that you get the advice of your local vet and/or animal welfare charity before starting this challenge. They will be able to advise whether your puppy can manage this distance.
The Blue Cross have some great advice about exercising puppies which can be read here.
Q. I have an older dog, can I still take part?
It is important to be mindful that older dogs will be less able to walk longer distances. However, you know your dog best. If you think your doggo can’t handle 100KM, but you would like to take part, then please feel free to set your challenge to a shorter, more manageable distance.
If you are unsure, we recommend that you get the advice of your local vet or animal welfare charity about whether your dog can take part in this challenge.
The RSPCA have some great advice about walking an elderly dog, you can read it here.
Q. What shall I do if I have welfare concerns about my own dog?
Please consult your vet if you have any concerns at all about your dog’s health or welfare.
Q. What shall I do if I have welfare concerns about someone else’s dog in the Facebook Group?
Please DO NOT message them directly or confront them. Instead, please report the post through Facebook to the admins using the ‘report’ function. We will then address the issue immediately.
If someone has reported content that suggests your dog is at risk, we may reach out to discuss this with you and signpost you to relevant animal welfare charities.
Q. How can I keep my supporters engaged?
Remember to share your progress with your Facebook friends, on your Facebook Fundraiser page and in our Facebook group.
Unsure on how best to share updates? Take a look at our top tips below:
- Videos: Short videos posted regularly with updates are a good a way to update supporters.
- Photos: Simple photos of you completing your miles with an update are often all it takes to engage supporters. Make sure to post photos of up-to-date trackers too!
- Instagram Boomerangs: Short, simple and, more often than not, pretty hilarious! Boomerangs are a fun way to share progress.
Q. What if I don't complete the challenge?
The only thing that matters is that you challenge yourself. Do as much as you can. Any distance you go will help, and your friends and family will see that. All that we ask is that you try your best.
Q. How can I fundraise?
Facebook Fundraisers are the easiest way to fundraise, and they allow you to share your page with friends at the touch of a button. You can set one up in just a few minutes here: https://givepanel.me/fb/IlDsN6Pk
However, you can also set up a fundraising page with JustGiving. Please click here.
In your welcome pack that you will receive, there will be a sponsorship form and a cardboard collection box that you can use for all offline donations. The sponsorship form explains how to get any funds raised to us once you’ve completed your challenge.
Q. How do I get my free beanie and tracker?
When you created your Facebook Fundraiser, you automatically registered for your free items! Your beanie and bandana will be on its way to you. Please allow 5 working days for delivery.
Q. How do I get my medal?
Individuals who raise £150 or more will receive a medal and certificate in the post once the challenge has ended.
Anyone who raises more than £20 will receive a certificate.
Q. How do I get people to sponsor me?
The beauty of a Facebook Fundraiser is it is super easy to share with your Facebook friends. Share it on your timeline and invite people to your Fundraiser using the 'Invite' button. Remember to let them know how important your challenge is to you and how vital the funds raised are for the Bone Cancer Research Trust.
If you have set up a JustGiving fundraiser, you can share that on multiple platforms. You can also get a QR code by simply putting /qrcode at the end of your JustGiving link.
Put up the sponsorship form provided to you, in your workplace or places you frequent, like a gym. Next to it, put your cardboard collection box to collect offline donations.
Q. Can teams take part?
Absolutely! If you would like to take part as a team, please email us at fundraising@bcrt.org.uk so we can register you as a team.
Q. How can I get friends and family involved?
Your family and friends will want to know how you are getting on so keep them in the loop by posting updates and photos on your fundraiser.
You could even ask your supporters to set you a challenge when they donate! Or even better, why not ask if they want to do the challenge with you too!