Meeting Point: Warren House Inn
What3Words: ///scar.unsettled.scrubber
Happy holidays, everyone! To celebrate the season, we’ve planned a festive hike followed by dinner at a nearby pub.
We’ll be hiking a circular route starting and finishing at The Warren House Inn, taking in Hockney Tor and Grimspound along the way. Wrap up the hike with a festive meal and drinks at The Warren House Inn — dinner is self-pay, but the fun and holiday cheer are on us! The Warren House Inn is dog friendly.
Bring your holiday cheer and your best festive sweaters for a fun, seasonal adventure.
Please RSVP by 10th December.
What to Bring:
Water (for you and your dog)
Weather appropriate clothing and footwear
Head torch and/or torch
Optional: holiday sweater
Optional: snacks for the hike
Dog essentials: lead, poop bags, and any treats or food
Important Information:
Dartmoor weather can change quickly. Come prepared for all weather conditions just in case.
Membership Requirement:
This event is only open to members of the K9 Commando Adventure Club. To join the club and sign up for future adventures, head over to our Shop page. You can also read more about the club here.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out before the day.
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Date: Saturday, 20 December 2025
Time: 15:00 - 19:00
Meeting Point: Warren House Inn
What3Words: ///scar.unsettled.scrubberHazard | Who Might Be Harmed | Control Measures
Uneven, natural trails, rocks, roots, or slippery surfaces
Participants and dogs
Participants advised to stay alert. Leaders brief participants on terrain at start. Dogs kept on lead where necessary.
Poor visibility, fog, or getting lost
Participants and dogs
Group leaders monitor progress. Participants must stay with the group unless cleared by leaders. Participants advised to bring head torches/torches.
Extreme or changeable weather (cold, rain, wind, etc.)
Participants and dogs
Participants advised to bring weather-appropriate gear. Organizers monitor forecasts and may shorten or cancel the event in dangerous conditions.
Hypothermia or cold exposure
Participants and dogs
Layers and waterproofs strongly encouraged. Shorter route option available if weather deteriorates.
Dog aggression or fights
Participants, dogs, and the public
Participants briefed beforehand. Organizers trained in canine first aid. Dogs kept on lead near other dogs, wildlife, or public.
Injury from fall, trip, or overexertion
Participants and dogs
Participants briefed on uneven terrain and obstacles. Leaders carry phones and first aid kits. Participants encouraged to pace themselves.
Medical emergencies (pre-existing conditions, allergic reactions, etc.)
Participants
Participants asked to disclose relevant info voluntarily and bring medications (e.g., inhalers, EpiPens). Emergency contacts collected and carried by organizers.
Livestock encounters or wildlife disturbance
Participants, dogs, wildlife, and livestock
Dogs kept on lead near livestock. Participants briefed on wildlife awareness and respectful conduct.
Dog fouling or litter
Public, wildlife, environment
Participants required to pick up after their dogs and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Lost participant or separation from group
Participants and dogs
Regular headcounts taken. Organizers use What3Words or GPS. Mobile phones carried. Group stays together unless permission granted.
Fatigue or overexertion (human or dog)
Participants and dogs
Regular stops planned. Route can be shortened if necessary. Dogs monitored for signs of fatigue.
Ticks or Insect Bites
Participants and dogs
Participants advised to check themselves and dogs after the walk. Use insect repellent. Suggest that dogs are on parasite prevention.
Mobile Signal Issues (common on Dartmoor)
Participants
Leaders familiar with area and equipped with emergency procedures.
Road traffic and crossings
Public, participants, and dogs
Participants briefed to use crossings safely. Dogs kept on leads at all times.
Crowded or slippery indoor areas
Participants and dogs
Keep dogs on lead inside. Participants advised to supervise dogs at all times.
Food and drink spillage
Dogs
Participants mindful of drinks/food around dogs.
Allergies / dietary requirements
Participants
Participants responsible for own food/drink choices and informing staff if needed.
Emergency Procedures
In case of emergency, call 999.
Closest hospital: Derriford Hospital, Plymouth (PL6 8DH), which is about a 40 minute car journey.
Organizers will carry a first aid kit (human and dog) and have emergency contact info for all participants. Organizers are trained in human and canine first aid.
Group leader to coordinate emergency response and stay with affected person until help arrives.
Review
This risk assessment will be reviewed at the start of the event and adjusted if necessary due to conditions on the day.
Prepared by: K9 Commando
Date: 30 November 2025