SPOOKY POOCH 5K — FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

GENERAL QUESTIONS

Q: Is there a Virtual Race option?
A: Yes! If you can’t make it to Grant Park, you can still participate by running or walking a 5K anywhere, anytime through October 31. Full details on how the Virtual Race works are available [here].

Q: If I register for the Virtual Race, can I also attend the in-person event?
A: Virtual registration is completely separate. Virtual participants are not able to run on-site at Grant Park. Only those registered for the in-person 5K (and wearing a race bib) will have access to the course.

Q: Our company, organization, or large group wants to sign up together. What’s the best way to register?
A: We’re excited to have you join us!

• If individuals are covering their own registrations: each person should register separately and include your group name during registration. Group leaders can email spookypooch@lifelineanimal.org if you’d like to request a full roster of your team’s registered participants.
• If your company or group is paying for everyone: email spookypooch@lifelineanimal.org and we’ll help coordinate bulk registration and payment.
• For groups picking up multiple race packets, please email us in advance so we can have everything ready.

Q: What kind of weather should we expect?
A: Welcome to Atlanta! Late October weather ranges from cool and fall-like, to warm and early spring-like. The event happens rain or shine, but any major weather-related updates will be emailed and posted on our event site.

Q: Can I cancel my registration or transfer it to someone else?
A: Registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable.

RACE DAY QUESTIONS

Q: What time should I arrive?
A: We recommend arriving by 7:00 AM to allow plenty of time for parking, packet pick-up, and getting to the start line.

Q: Where is parking located?
A: Parking will be available near Grant Park. Complete parking instructions and maps will be shared as we get closer to race day.

Q: Will there be bathrooms?
A: Yes! Restrooms and portable toilets will be available near the start/finish area.

Q: Can I bring my dog? My stroller?
A: Of course! Well-behaved, leashed dogs are absolutely welcome (this is Spooky Pooch after all). All dogs must be registered and waivers signed.

Strollers are allowed, but we kindly ask that participants with strollers line up toward the back to help keep the course safe for all runners and walkers.

Q: Can I wear headphones?
A: You may wear headphones, but please stay alert to your surroundings, especially with dogs, kids, and other participants on the course.

Q: How is the race timed?
A: All 5K participants will receive a chip-timed bib for official race results. Your finishing time will be based on the time you cross the timing mats.

Q: Is there a course map available?
A: Yes! See the course map section below.

Q: Does this race qualify for the Peachtree Road Race?
A: Yes, the Spooky Pooch 5K is a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race!

Q: Is there a bag check?
A: There will not be a bag check available, so please plan accordingly and only bring what you’re comfortable carrying.

Q: Will food and drinks be available?
A: Light snacks and water will be provided for registered participants after the race (while supplies last).

Q: Is there a rain date?
A: The race will happen rain or shine. In case of severe weather, updates will be shared and participants will have the option to complete their race virtually.

Q: Can my friends and family come watch?
A: Absolutely! Spectators are welcome to cheer on participants along the course.

Q: Can I wear a costume?
A: 100% yes — both people and pets are encouraged to show off their best spooky (or silly) costumes!

Registration Policies

By registering for Spooky Pooch 5K, participants acknowledge and agree to the following event policies.

Registration & Refunds

All registration fees are non-refundable unless refund protection was purchased at the time of registration and the claim meets the refund protection program’s eligibility requirements.

Participants may transfer their registration by following the transfer instructions provided : Click here

Registration fees are non-refundable if the event is canceled, delayed, shortened, rescheduled, or modified due to severe weather, natural disasters, emergencies, public safety concerns, government action, or other circumstances outside of race management’s control.

Event Changes

Race management reserves the right to cancel, delay, adjust the schedule, modify the course, or otherwise alter the event due to weather, safety concerns, permitting requirements, or other operational needs.

Spooky Pooch is a rain-or-shine event.

Participant Requirements

Timed 5K participants must be age 8 or older on race day.

Fun Run/Walk participants must be age 3 or older.

Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a registered adult.

All participants, including children and dogs, must be registered to participate.

Dog Policies

Dogs are welcome but must be registered through the Dog Add-On option.

Only one dog is permitted per registered participant.

Dogs must remain on a leash at all times and should be comfortable in crowded, active environments.

For the safety of all participants, dogs that display aggressive or disruptive behavior may be asked to leave the event.

Participants assume responsibility for the care, supervision, and actions of their dog during the event.

Event Merchandise & Swag

Event T-shirt sizes are guaranteed for Early Bird and General Registration only.

Swag items, dog items, and giveaway quantities may be limited and are available while supplies last.

Virtual participant packages will be shipped within the United States only.

Race Day Policies

Participants must follow all event signage and instructions from race staff, volunteers, public safety personnel, and event partners.

Strollers are welcome but may be asked to start toward the back for participant safety.

Only approved vendors may sell, distribute, promote, or sample products onsite.

Photography & Media Release

By attending Spooky Pooch 5K, participants grant permission for LifeLine Animal Project and its partners to photograph, film, and use images or video captured during the event for promotional, marketing, and fundraising purposes without compensation.

Questions

Questions may be directed to:
spookypooch@lifelineanimal.org