We love dogs at the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event, but to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, please follow these guidelines:
Leash Policy & Restricted Areas
- All dogs must be leashed at all times. No exceptions.
- Dogs are not allowed in Rolex Stadium, Alltech Arena, any grandstands, hospitality tents, museums, the theater, or restaurants at The Kentucky Horse Park.
- Service animals trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities are permitted in accordance with ADA and Kentucky law. Service animals must remain under control and off tables/seats and cannot come into contact with food or service items in accordance with food safety regulations. Establishments may refuse service if a dog poses a risk.
- Emotional support animals are not permitted as service animals. Please note that misrepresenting a service animal is a legal offense.
Clean Up After Your Dog
With nearly 90,000 attendees, it’s important to keep the event clean! Please bring waste bags and dispose of them in trash cans throughout the park—even on the Cross-Country Course. We appreciate your cooperation in making K3DE a great experience for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike!
Aggressive or Excessively Loud Dogs
For the safety and enjoyment of all attendees, dogs exhibiting aggressive behavior or causing excessive noise may be removed from the event at the discretion of event staff.
Doggie Daycare
The Lexington Humane Society offers on-site Doggie Daycare on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited to approximately 50 dogs at a time. Hours are 8 AM – 5 PM, and rates are $15 per hour (max $60 per day). All proceeds benefit the Lexington Humane Society. To board your dog, you must provide proof of current vaccinations (Rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella). For questions, contact
ahall@lexingtonhumanesociety.org or call 859-233-0044 ext. 254 during business hours.
Amenities & Safety
- Water stations are available throughout the event, but we recommend bringing your own. Some vendors provide water stations.
- No veterinary services are available on-site. If your dog needs medical attention, please contact a local veterinarian.
- There will be no special parking concessions for vehicles containing dogs. Distressed dogs will be removed from vehicles, by whatever means necessary, by event Security/Animal Control/Lexington Humane Society.