Pets on public transport

[ozbob]

FYI. It is permissible to take pets on trains in Melbourne ..

http://www.metrotrains.com.au/About-us/Service-Commitments/Customer-Charter/Customer-Charter-text-version.html

Carrying of Pets

Only animals identified on an Assisted Animal Pass can travel on all Victorian public transport services.

Dogs on leads are permitted on metropolitan trains, but only if they are muzzled.  Dogs are not allowed on seats, are not allowed to block doorways or passageways and must be controlled by their owner at all times. Any customer who travels with an animal must also clean up any mess it creates.

Small animals can travel on metropolitan public tranport, but they must be in a suitable container.

[ozbob]

Interesting development:

http://www.gazette.vic.gov.au/gazette/Gazettes2011/GG2011S131.pdf

Says pets can now go on VLine

But VLine says ..

http://www.vline.com.au/home/news/carousel/2125860180/Article.aspx

Pets on trains

Please note that despite a State Government announcement on Wednesday 20 April, pets* are NOT allowed on V/Line trains until further notice.

V/Line is working with staff and government to resolve concerns around the carriage of animals and until all risks are assessed, pets will not be allowed on V/Line services.

We apologise for any inconvenience and please continue to check the website for updates, or call 136 196 before travelling.

*Animals on an Assistance Animal Pass and guide dogs, hearing guide dogs and training guide dogs will continue to travel on all public transport services in Victoria without restriction.

Malfunction junction!   

[ozbob]

Tweet from Daniel B.

danielbowen

This pets on V/Line thing reminds me of the bike ban on trains; rushed through by govt without checking implications for operator #SpringSt

6 minutes ago

[ozbob]

From the Melbourne Age click here!

Minister red-faced as his pet issue goes off the rails

Minister red-faced as his pet issue goes off the rails
Clay Lucas
April 22, 2011

Transport Minister Terry Mulder's order to Victoria's regional rail operator that pets be allowed back on board with their owners has hit a snag, with V/Line saying they are still banned.

In an embarrassment for the government, V/Line posted a statement on its website yesterday saying: ''Despite a state government announcement on Wednesday 20 April, pets are not allowed on V/Line trains until further notice ... Until all risks are assessed, pets will not be allowed on V/Line services.''

Last night, Mr Mulder issued a statement of his own, blaming the confusion on V/Line, and saying the operator had ''failed to take appropriate measures to ensure implementation can occur this Easter''.

Travel with pets would now not be allowed over Easter, Mr Mulder said, but the government's policy to allow commuters with their pets on V/Line services would eventually go ahead. A V/Line spokeswoman said there had not been enough consultation by the government with staff before the announcement on Wednesday.

''A proper process needs to be followed on this, our conductors will have to deal with the animals on board, so we need to look at the risks there are issues around hygiene,'' she said.

The opposition, which in 2008 changed the rules to forbid passengers from travelling with animals on regional train services, said the confusion was a sign Mr Mulder was not in control of the rail network.

''What a wally,'' opposition public transport spokeswoman Fiona Richardson said. ''Could he not even be bothered to ring the rail authority that he was about to launch this initiative with?''

Guide dogs can still travel on all public transport services in Victoria without restriction.

■Rail and tram travellers passing through the city over Easter will have their journey disrupted, as Metro rebuilds rail lines between Southern Cross and Flinders Street stations. Yarra Trams is replacing tram lines along Spencer Street over the Easter break. There will no City Loop train services on Good Friday.

Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/minister-redfaced-as-his-pet-issue-goes-off-the-rails-20110421-1dqn5.html#ixzz1KBUNrvWt

Footnote:  I grew up with pets on trains.  Never been an issue provided the right thing is done.  It is great to be able to take a pet dog for a ride, my dog Missy would love to go for a ride I am sure. She likes looking at trains ...

[ozbob]

Twitter

themykiuser

I'd love to bring my dog on the Vline train Mr Mulder, but he'd like to use his #myki yfrog.com/gyj9gepj
1 hour ago

[ozbob]

From The Courier click here!

V/Line trains allow dog and cat travel

V/Line trains allow dog and cat travel
21 Jul, 2011 06:47 PM
TRAIN passengers can now travel with domestic cats and dogs on V/Line trains.

The rail authority announced the policy yesterday but stressed animals must be placed in a suitable container for the journey.

A V/Line spokesperson said containers must be no larger than 56cm long, 30cm wide and 38cm high and the animals should not weigh more than 15 kilograms.

The restrictions were developed in line with RSPCA guidelines, and state animals should be able to stand up straight, lie down and turn around inside the container without discomfort.

The spokesperson said the arrangements for domestic animals followed an analysis of potential impacts on other passengers, train staff and the animals themselves who could travel up to almost four hours on some V/Line trains.

Domestic animals that can not fit inside an RSPCA approved container remain banned from V/Line train services.

However, guide dogs, hearing guide dogs in training and approved assistance animals are permitted on all V/Line services without restriction.

[ozbob]

http://www.vline.com.au/journey/whatyoucantake/animals.html

Animals & pets

Animals & pets
Passengers are welcome to take domesticated animals (including cats and dogs) on a V/Line train as long as they follow the conditions set out below which ensure the safety and welfare of everyone onboard.

Guide dogs, hearing guide dogs, guide dogs in training and approved assistance animals are permitted on all V/Line services and there are no conditions around the carriage of these animals travelling with us.

If you wish to travel with you pet you must observe the following conditions:

    Pets are not permitted on V/Line buses.
    All domesticated pets (including cats and dogs) must be carried in an approved container that meets the following guidelines:
    Small - equivalent to one unit of baggage
    Suitable for cats and small dogs - up to a small terrier size
    Size - 56cm long / 30cm wide / 38cm high
    Maximum Weight (including pet) - up to 15kg
    Small animals in approved containers can be carried on the following train configurations on the designated locations provided:
    Loco - Hauled Services - in the luggage van (not allowed within passenger cabin)
    VLocity Fleet - inside the passenger cabin within the designated bike/luggage storage area
    Sprinters - inside the passenger cabin within the designated luggage storage area (known as the corral)
    All small animals carried in an approved container are the responsibility and under the supervision of the owner. Owners are required to place the animal container on and off the V/Line train.
    Provided the RSPCA guidelines are met of the animal being able to stand up straight, sit down (without being cramped) and turn around in the approved container, carriage of more than one animal is permitted.
    All small animals carried in an approved container are to be stored in designated luggage areas and cannot be stored in walkways, under seats, in overhead luggage racks or on seats.
    Owners are responsible for the removal and clean-up of any excrement and/or mess that the animal produce on their journey.
    It is recommended that you travel in off-peak periods
    V/Line staff will take no responsibility for the storage and carriage of small animals.
    Only one approved container per adult ticket.

Dangerous Dogs
V/Line will not permit dangerous dogs (full breed and half breed) on any of its train services. Dangerous dogs are defined under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 under Restricted Breeds. "Restricted breed' dogs are defined as those dogs prohibited from being imported by the Commonwealth Customers (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956, including rge Dogo Argentino, the Japanese Tosa, the Fila Brasileiro, the Perro de Presa Canario (or Presa Canario) and the American Pit Bull Terrier (or Pit Bull Terrier).

Refusal to travel
In addition, V/Line staff may refuse carriage as a result of an animal that causes a disturbance, presents or becomes savage and may risk harm to itself, its owner, other passengers and staff onboard the train service. On services where seating availability and space is limited, staff may request passenger and animal to board an alternative service.

Assistance Animal Pass

Only animals identified on an Assistance Animal Pass can travel on all Victorian public transport services.

Full details on the pass, including how to apply, can be found on the Metlink website.


For further information please call us on 136 196.

[Fares_Fair]

Do they pay extra for the privilege ?
Does the pet get a seat ?   

Regards,
Fares_Fair.

[ozbob]

On V/Line don't get a seat, as indicated above.

On Metro, dogs I have seen are generally on floor, well behaved..  In the days when the Taits were running (the red rattlers) I can remember dogs enjoying the breeze next to a window. Gunzels and dogs poking out from windows ... LOL

I wouldn't expect a change of heart in SEQ about pets anytime soon.  We must accept that Queensland is 'different' ....

Here is an interesting yarn --> Wild dogs commute from suburbs to scavenge in Moscow

I love the bit about the dogs liking the first and last carriages, the quiet ones ...

[ozbob]

Smart dog --> http://www.flickr.com/photos/billie_terrier/1728173605/

[SurfRail]

There is a story somewhere about a cat in the UK that catches the bus each morning from the same stop down to the local chippy to have a fish breakfast.

[p858snake]

There is a story somewhere about a cat in the UK that catches the bus each morning from the same stop down to the local chippy to have a fish breakfast.

It passed away a while ago after it was involved in a accident with a motor vehicle.

[ozbob]

Enhanced Inclusion of Dogs in Community Spaces & on Inner-City Public Transport

https://www.epetitions.brisbane.qld.gov.au/petition/view/pid/660

Brisbane is now considered to be a world-class city particularly in the arts and liveability. Noticeably, for dog owners/lovers all over the city but most specifically in the inner-city areas, Brisbane continues to have an archaic view of dogs out and about within the community - though they play a major role for many people in terms of stress reduction, combating loneliness and increasing exercise and connection to the community. Off-leash areas are limited, small, often overwhelmed with users and in poor condition (no grass from overuse). In addition, getting around Brisbane with a dog without private transport is near impossible, and therefore creating a necessity to have cars out on the road to simply get between otherwise easily accessible areas such as New Farm to Bulimba, Hamilton to Bulimba, etc. This inconvenience has very real financial implications for business owners who would directly benefit from owners and their dogs being out and about on weekends and outside of work hours when they most wish to be with (and have a responsibility to meet the needs of) their dogs.

We respectfully petition Council to implement a program to allow dogs to travel on Brisbane's ferry services and on other modes of public transport, in conjunction with a system to ensure the safety of the travelling general public. By system, we recommend a complement of tactics aimed at ensuring the responsibilities of dogs owners in this scheme are known, transparent, vetted by managed constructs and met. Specifically, this means a certification program to ensure the behavioural suitability of dogs using these transport services which is simple to design, implement and manage. In addition, a code of conduct for dog owners would be made transparent and implemented as a condition of use of these services.

We also petition for use of New Farm Park to be shared more reasonably with pets. We petition for designated off-leash recreation use for dogs and owners between certain hours/days. Again, using certified criteria to ensure dogs are under verbal control of their owners and responsive to their owner's commands to a suitable level. We propose 5.00am - 7.00am & 6.00pm - 8.00pm Monday - Friday, and 5.00am - 7.00am Saturday and Sunday as dog-friendly times. These times have the lowest number of people in the park and can be granted with certain rules - dogs must be responsive to owner's commands, no walking on garden beds, pick up waste and dispose of, etc, all of which dog owners must adhere to and respect. These hours can also be seasonally adjusted as needed. Sydney and other international cities (New York, Washington, Paris, Cannes and Aspen to name a few recently visited and most airports, train stations and bus terminals across USA and Europe) all manage these types of dog-human shared spaces and transport services very well. The many positive aspects of dogs on transport are well documented across social media - more positive human interaction, enjoyment of patting the dogs, reducing travel stress for everyone, increasing human socialisation and interaction, etc. We respectfully request proper, mature and consultative consideration be given to making these changes towards a more international standard of inclusiveness of dogs within the community.

Your petitioners therefore request domestic dogs, with good behavioural standards and socialisation, be allowed to use public transport including inner-city bus services, cross-city and CityCat ferry services and trains. This can be granted alongside the implementation of a certification system that confirms the suitability of the dogs and owners to use these services safely. In addition, it is requested that use of New Farm Park be reconsidered as a shared off-leash recreation area for dogs and owners between certain hours and days. We propose between the hours of 5.00am - 7.00am & 6.00pm - 8.00pm Monday - Friday, and 5.00am - 7.00am Saturday and Sunday as shared dog-friendly park times.

[ozbob]

I grew up in Melbourne.  Dogs (and other small animals) have always been allowed on trains as far as I can remember.  Still can.

PTV --> Animals on public transport

> https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/more/travelling-on-the-network/animals-on-public-transport/

Animals on public transport

You can bring dogs and some other animals with you on public transport under certain conditions.

Guide dogs and assistance animals

Guide dogs, hearing guide dogs or guide dogs in training can travel for free on all public transport services.

You can travel with an Assistance Animal Pass if you need a trained assistance animal to help you use public transport. To receive a pass, you'll need to show that your assistance animal is trained to help you manage your disability.

Metropolitan trains, trams and buses

If your animal isn't a guide dog, hearing guide dog or guide dog in training, and doesn't have an Assistance Animal Pass, it may still be able to travel with you on public transport.

Small animals can travel with you on trains, trams and buses in a suitable animal container.

Dogs can travel with you on trains, as long as they're on a lead and wearing a muzzle. If you bring your dog on a train you must:

clean up any mess your dog makes
make sure your dog doesn't sit on seats, or block aisles and doors
keep your dog under your control at all times
avoid travelling on weekdays between 7am and 9am or 4pm and 6pm.

Animals other than those in a suitable animal container, or dogs on a leash and wearing a muzzle, are not allowed on trains. Only animals in a suitable animal container are allowed on trams and buses.

V/Line trains and coaches

You can bring small animals on V/Line trains in an suitable animal container. Suitable animal containers must:

be no more than 56cm long, 30cm wide and 38cm high
weigh a maximum of 15kg, including your animal
allow your animal space to comfortably stand up, lie down and turn around.
Only one container is allowed per customer.
You can put your animal container in the luggage van of Loco-Hauled trains or inside the passenger cabin or bike and luggage storage area of VLocity and Sprinter trains. V/Line conductors will confirm if there is enough space for small animals.

When travelling with an animal on V/Line trains:

clean up any mess your animal makes
avoid travelling on weekdays between 7am and 9am or 4pm and 6pm
don't bring any dangerous animals on board
Animals are not allowed on V/Line coaches, including rail replacement buses, unless they're a guide dog or have an Assistance Animal Pass.

[STB]

I would've thought that the rules surrounding pets (dogs/cats etc) on public transport falls under the State Government?

In the past I've voxpopped my friends surrounding these rules and most of them say that they shouldn't allow pets (except accessible animals) on board public transport.  Some of them say for sanitary reasons, others say for allergy reasons.

[ozbob]

Folks don't have a problem with guide or assistance dogs.  But this has been tried before and the State wouldn't allow it, and I don't think they will change.  Yes, it is the State not BCC STB.  The petition is in the wrong place.

Meanwhile ... 

[ozbob]

Couriermail Quest --> Petition calls time on dog ban on ferries

Annie Boxall's fur-baby Banjo Paddington has a bone to pick with Brisbane city - he wants to travel on its ferries.

Unlike many world cities including Sydney, New York, London and Paris, Brisbane continues to prohibit dogs from travelling on public transport, unless they are assistance dogs, but Banjo and his family are hoping to change that.

Ms Boxall has set up a Brisbane City Council e-petition to bring the city in line with its southern counterpart and international destinations.

"I really do believe it is time for change," Ms Boxall said.

"Our dog travels everywhere with us including interstate on flights and on public transport in Sydney without issue. In Brisbane, it feels like a dark cloud hangs over the joy of dog ownership imposed by outdated views, rules and attitudes."

"We recently moved back to Brisbane from Sydney where most local parks in the inner-city are either off-leash all the time or have designated dog off-leash times."

Ms Boxall, who grew up in Brisbane, said the contrast between their life in Sydney with Banjo and now back in Brisbane "could not be greater".

"In Sydney, Banjo can travel on most transport either on a leash or in a soft carry-on pet crate with ease," Ms Boxall said.

"As a result, we would spend all our leisure time and money doing things with our dog around different villages and experiencing new walking adventures - great exercise and no car on the road."

"By comparison, we do less of everything including spending our money out and about as life with a dog here sadly feels more suffocating than inspiring."

"Brisbane is considered to be a world class city on many levels and it is in area such as the arts and many aspects of general liveability but continues to have an archaic view of dogs out and about within the community."

Ms Boxall said dog friendly cities she had visited like Paris, Cannes, New York, Denver, Aspen and Beaver Creek all allowed dogs to ride public transport including buses, small shuttle buses at ski areas, ferries and boats and throughout air terminals.

"It was wonderful to see what a calming and happy impact dogs (and some cats) had on the tensions of the travelling public especially during peak commuter periods," Ms Boxall said.

"People smile and request pats and discussion opened between people who may never have otherwise connected."

"Internal areas such as the airports even had "Pet Relief Rooms" while waiting for flights."

"I'm not suggesting we go straight for this level, but one step into modern thinking toward pets and opening up our communities for dog owner would be great. The fight for better conditions for pets on flights is another battle for another day...especially in light of recent deaths of dogs in transit."

Across the river in Bulimba, Paul Liddy and his dog Ziggy are equally keen to see a major shake up of public transport rules for pets.

Mr Liddy said dogs were an "integral part of a lot of people's lifestyles".

"A higher proportion of Australians live in households with a dog and/or cat than with a child," Mr Liddy said.

"Dogs remain the most popular type of pet with almost two in five households (3.6 million) owning a dog and the percentages are increasing."

"Non-dog owners might find it difficult to understand how important they are to us. I certainly didn't before I had my first dog but they don't call them fur babies for nothing."

"They become a part of your family, and as with the other family members you want them to have a happy, enriched life.

Mr Liddy said the benefits of travelling around the city with pets was two fold - more contented dogs and owners and less cars on the road.

He said just across the river from Bulimba was a world-class facility in New Farm park as well as well as walking paths, and a "multitude of attractions for dogs to sniff around and explore on leash".

"Beyond that, there are numerous other places/markets/riversides we would visit as well as the likes of Southbank, Kangaroo Point under the bridge," he said.

"Unfortunately if I want to take Ziggy to those, or any other interesting adventure around our river city, I need to add to my carbon footprint, create traffic congestion and park in already overcrowded street parking by owning and using a car. BCC have made it clear, that these are all issues that they are aiming to eliminate, not create."

He said there would be a range of elements to consider before allowing pets onto ferries including "not everyone likes dogs, some people are frightened of them, some people have allergies, dogs can be dangerous (that's mostly about the owner, not the dog) and pets can make a mess sometimes."

But like Ms Boxall, Mr Liddy proposed a solution - a "dog owners gocard" that registered the dog as approved for the ferries could solve the problem.

"An owner could have to get approval from a vet/RSPCA or other agency to prove it was not dangerous or destruction and "if necessary, pay a higher fee for the privilege," Mr Liddy said.

He also said dog owners could be limited to using citycats and restricted to the rear of the vessel outside, would provide a safe, allergen free zone for non-dog people in the cabin or front of the vessel.

"Furthermore , if a pet did make a mess it is in an area that is designed to be hosed out/cleaned easily without any residue," he said.

"Let's enhance (at least 60% of) our populations lifestyle, Encouraging greater use of the city's recreational facilities , create a healthier city, reduce cars and traffic inner-city and Bringing our river to life by allowing pets on Brisbane's ferry services."

Mr Liddy and Ms Boxall are not the first to push for change.

Owners across the city have been calling on government to bring Brisbane into line with the rest of the world for years.

In December 2017, the News asked TransLink about animals on ferries.

A spokesman said "Animals and pets are not allowed on public transport services in accordance with the Transport Operations (Passenger Transport) Regulation 2005 for the safety and comfort of all customers".

"The only animals permitted to travel on all TransLink services are certified guide, hearing and assistance dogs, in accordance with the Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dogs Act 2009," the spokesman said.

"Guide, hearing and assistance animals are specifically trained to behave appropriately in public and are registered with the Queensland government prior to being able to travel on public transport services."

The spokesman said pets could pose a danger to passengers and "may not be as well trained as assistance animals"

He said there was no plan to change the policy.

Ms Boxall said an example/outline of how such a program could work...

•Dogs can be cleared by a BCC approved dog trainer that they are well socialised, happy to interact with strangers and other dogs, good with children approaching, respond to essential commands and are under control.

•This could take place with a monthly group session in a park where the approved trainer and dog transport applicants/dogs meet and step through the critical criteria for clearance. Or, between these sessions, the dog owner could fund assessment privately.

•If the dog gets the tick of approval then the owner has a digital or paper certificate that the dog may travel on transport which can be shown to the driver/ferry operator.

•As part of the program, the owner must acknowledge and sign an agreement that outlines their responsibilities while using public transport. Content may include, a secure leash or harness, seating in a particular area etc.

[ozbob]

It is kind of amusing.  The transport boffins are happy to allow speeding missiles on footpaths but pet dogs are too much of a risk.

As usual, other jurisdictions get it right, banana-land remains locked into yesterday failure paradigms ...

#justsaying

[techblitz]

ii don't have any issue with it as long as the pet is quiet......pets can have a good effect on fellow commuters as it gives them something else to focus on other than their phones....

[ozbob]

I always enjoy seeing the odd woofer on the trains in Melbourne.  Never an issue ..

I can understand the petitioners raising this.  Many of the people who live in the inner city apartments and what not, do have small pets.  It is only natural to want to take them around with them.  Hardly an issue to be real.   They don't have big yards and the like so they want to get them out of the place and have some time outside.  Many use public transport and so they want to be able to take their little ' furr babies ' with them.

[#Metro]

I'd rather not see dogs and cats on the train.

They could poop, pee, leave hair and dander, and attack people.

There was a time I was overseas, someone brought two huskies on the train, which were a bit wet and stank. Then there was dog slobber which was dripping. It was horrible.

[BrizCommuter]

I'd rather not see dogs and cats on the train.

They could poop, pee, leave hair and dander, and attack people.

There was a time I was overseas, someone brought two huskies on the train, which were a bit wet and stank. Then there was dog slobber which was dripping. It was horrible.

+1 buying a dog doesn't give you a right to inflict it on everyone else.

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> Hundreds call for pets to be let on Brisbane buses, trains and ferries

The RSPCA has backed calls for pets to be allowed to travel on buses, ferries and trains in Brisbane to boost the economy.
It comes after a petition with almost 700 signatures by New Farm resident Annie Boxall for dogs to be allowed on public transport.

The idea comes with a proposal for a "certification program" which would allow dogs to travel on public transport as long as they had been given a "good boy" tick of approval for behaviour and socialisation standards.
Pooches are allowed on public transport in cities across the world, including Paris, Washington and New York.

RSPCA Queensland spokeswoman Alex Hyndman Hill said changing the law would benefit dogs, pet owners and the wider community.

"The RSPCA Queensland receives over 1000 distress calls each year about animals being left in hot cars," she said.
"If owners had alternative methods of transporting their pets, such as being able to take them on the bus or ferry, we would hope to see a reduction in this number.
"From an economic perspective, allowing pets on public transport would encourage people to take their furry friends out and about more often, which brings more business to the local community."

In 2018, more than 107,000 dogs were registered with the Brisbane City Council.

Ms Hyndman said the number of pets continued to rise.

"Each year, the RSPCA see around 39,000 cats and 39,000 dogs in Australia find good homes or be reunited with their family," she said.

"It's not fair that there is a Go Card for humans but a no card for our pets."

The petition said it was "near impossible" to get around Brisbane with a dog without private transport.

"The many positive aspects of dogs on transport are well documented across social media - more positive human interaction, enjoyment of patting the dogs, reducing travel stress for everyone, increasing human socialisation and interaction, etc," the petition reads.

A TransLink spokesman said the agency understood why people would want to travel with their pets on public transport.

"However, there are practical reasons why TransLink does not allow pets on public transport," he said.

Those reasons were for the safety and allergy-prevention of passengers, space restrictions, particularly on peak services, because not all pets may be well-trained or behaved, some people were not comfortable with animals and for legal reasons.

"Approved assistance animals (guide dogs) are allowed on the public transport network," the spokesman said.

"Customers wishing to travel with an assistance animal are required to hold a TransLink assistance animal pass.
"TransLink has no plans to change our policy, which is in line with many other states in Australia."

[ozbob]

Couriermail Quest --> Petition launched to get pets on Brisbane's public transport system

Is Brisbane ready for pets on public transport? A new petition, fast gathering momentum, believes the river city needs to change.

YOU can do it in Paris, Washington and New York but you can't do it in Brisbane, now another petition is hoping the river city will soon allow pets on public transport.

Ipswich academic Dr Patricia Petersen has created a change.org petition lobbying the Queensland Government and Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk to change the transport laws.

"Many dog owners would like to catch public transport with their pets," the petition says.

"However, in almost all cities and regional areas within Australia, they are unable to do so.

"Changing laws to allow dog owners to travel with their pets would be of benefit to all dog owners, but be of particular assistance to those who cannot drive, for example, people with disabilities and the elderly."

The petition has already gained more than 13,000 signatures since it was posted.

"Pooches are allowed on public transport in cities across the world, including Paris, Washington and New York," Ms Petersen says.

"A "certification program" would allow dogs to travel on public transport as long as they had been given a "good boy" tick of approval for behaviour and socialisation standards.

"I am calling on all governments in Australia to change their laws so that dog owners can travel on public transport with their dogs."

In January, New Farm resident Annie Boxall called on the Brisbane City Council to bring the city in line with other world cities.

"I really do believe it is time for change," Ms Boxall said.

"In Sydney, Banjo can travel on most transport either on a leash or in a soft carry-on pet crate with ease.

"Brisbane is considered to be a world class city on many levels and it is in areas such as the arts and many aspects of general liveability but continues to have an archaic view of dogs out and about within the community."

Ms Boxall was joined by Bulimba resident Paul Liddy who also backed the need for change.

Mr Liddy said dogs were an "integral part of a lot of people's lifestyles".

"A higher proportion of Australians live in households with a dog and/or cat than with a child," Mr Liddy said.

"Dogs remain the most popular type of pet with almost two in five households (3.6 million) owning a dog and the percentages are increasing."

"Non-dog owners might find it difficult to understand how important they are to us. I certainly didn't before I had my first dog but they don't call them fur babies for nothing.

"They become a part of your family, and as with the other family members you want them to have a happy, enriched life."

[verbatim9]

I am all for pets on Public Transport as long as they dont soil seats and disrupt the public around them. It seems to work in Victoria and European countries. But has never really taken off Australia wide or in NZ or USA?

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> CityCats gone to the dogs? Council pushes for pets to be allowed on water transport

Brisbane pet owners would be allowed to take their beloved dogs and some other pets on the CityCats and ferries under a renewed push from the city council.

South-east Queensland public transport agency TransLink bans pets on CityCats and ferries under the Transport Operations Act 1994.

After Tuesday's full meeting, Brisbane City Council will write to TransLink and again ask permission for pooches to travel on the 'Cats.

The council operates the CityCats and ferries but must observe TransLink's pet ban under the legislation.

Deputy Mayor Krista Adams revealed the pet travel proposal earlier this week at a council committee meeting after a petitioner asked the council to reconsider letting pets ride on the river.

"I personally think it would be nice to have animals on the CityCats, but they would need muzzles," Cr Adams said.

"I'm familiar with North Stradbroke Island where dogs can go on the water ferries.

"I think it is the same type of thing.

"But they have to have a muzzle."

The council committee meeting heard modern-day soft muzzles could be used by pet lovers.

Cr Adams said the council would write to TransLink and ask that pets - mostly dogs on leads - to be allowed on CityCats and ferries.

Dog lovers in the City Botanic Gardens were enthusiastic but acknowledged the change could be tricky.

IT specialist Steve Bakker lives in the inner city on the 30th floor of an apartment building with his labradoodle Bozo. He works at South Brisbane.

"Bozo would love to go to work on the CityCat," Mr Bakker said.

"Bozo has to walk to work at the Mater Hospital at South Brisbane and he would love to catch the CityCat home on a Friday night."

Not all dogs were well behaved, he acknowledged, but then "not all people are well behaved."

"It is a valid point to say it can be difficult because some dogs can be difficult to control," he said.

"But it is a subset of dogs that live in the inner city and I think they are used to being around people."

Bozo would probably not like wearing a muzzle but if it was a condition of travel Mr Bakker imagined he could get used to it.

Car broker Todd Simpson also lives in the CBD. His dog, Daisy, flashed her eyes as he said the idea had plenty of merit.

"I think if it's a well-behaved dog it should be fine," Mr Simpson said.

"It would be good if they let dogs on the CityCats; that would be awesome."

Some owners suggested dogs with their owners could be restricted to the back of the CityCats, away from people who were nervous of dogs.

Mr Simpson did not know dogs were not allowed on the ferries until he was asked about the proposal.

"I suppose the difficult part is if you make it law then someone will have 15 killer breeds and they want their dogs on," he said.

"So is it going to create bigger problem?

"Does it bring out all the wild breeds and create more problems than it is worth?"

A TransLink spokesman said the organisation understand people wanted to be able to travel with their pets.

"There are practical reasons why TransLink does not allow pets on public transport," He said, naming safety, hygiene and allergy problems were the top of the list of concerns.

"There is also space restrictions, particularly on peak services, and not all pets are well behaved or trained."

TransLink allows guide dogs on board and issues an assistance animal pass to their owners.

"We have no plans to change our policy, which is in line with many other states in Australia," the spokesman said.

[ozbob]

The Queensland Government is considering a trial of allowing dogs to travel on Brisbane CityCats and ferries. #9Newshttps://t.co/axPukE0GbQ

— Nine News Gold Coast (@9NewsGoldCoast) August 12, 2019

[#Metro]

What do you do when the dog lifts its leg?

Dog does massive poo in middle of train leaving passengers gagging for four hours

https://metro.co.uk/2018/08/09/dog-massive-poo-middle-train-carriage-leaving-passengers-gagging-four-hours-7820717/

It's the ultimate nightmare. A foul stench while you're stuck on a long train journey home. But what about if you could see the source of the horrific smell but couldn't do anything about it?

^^^ Includes photographs 

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> 'A very good idea': Queensland minister backs trial of pets on CityCats

Pets will soon ride on CityCats and ferries with Queensland's Transport Minister Mark Bailey on Monday supporting the suggestion from Brisbane City Council.

Mr Bailey on Monday described the idea as "positive" and said he would begin a trial of pets on CityCats in the near future.

He said a trial would begin on the Bulimba and Teneriffe ferries bit did not set an exact date.

Brisbane City Council will formally write to TransLink – which sits within Mr Bailey's transport portfolio – to ask for the trial after the idea is passed at the full council meeting on Tuesday.

However, Mr Bailey has already welcomed the suggestion, first reported by Brisbane Times on Monday.

"I think this is a good idea if we set the appropriate rules and regulations that might go with it," Mr Bailey said.

"This happens in a number of other states in Australia," he said.

"I think a trial should go ahead allowing small pets, with a range of rules that go with it."

Mr Bailey said he wanted to speak with public transport customers and pet owners over the next month before a trial began.

He said there were legitimate concerns to consider.

"Things like 'Will we do it on all CityCats and ferries, will we just do it on ferries, what are the appropriate dimensions (for pets) and what would customers' expectations be?" he asked.

"One issue we might like to look at is the size of pets allowed. There might be a limitation there on being able to take them on board.

"We will look into that over the next month. But I think a trial is a very good idea."

Mr Bailey agreed with lord mayor Adrian Schrinner that cities in other countries allowed pets on public transport.

"I know people have been taking pets on public transport in other countries for quite some time and I see no reason why it cannot be done here as long as it is done reasonably," he said.

Labor's Morningside Ward councillor Kara Cook said she had approached Mr Bailey several months ago after several residents in her council ward asked to take their pets on to CityCats.

A petition debated at Brisbane City Council's public transport committee last week came from a resident within Cr Cook's ward.

"Di Farmer, Grace Grace and myself have been talking to the minister about this for four to five months," Cr Cook said.

"We have been lobbying him in response to local residents asking Di, Grace and I for help with dogs – in particular – being able to go across from Teneriffe to Bulimba," she said.

"We are absolutely supportive of a trial and we want to see dogs travel between here at Bulimba and New Farm."

Cr Cook said dog owners had "complained politely" about the length of time it took to travel the long way around to get to New Farm Park.

"It's a gorgeous dog-walking area and people from Bulimba want to be able to access those areas," she said.

"Likewise, the people from New Farm want to be able to access the walks and parks on our side of the river as well.

"It is something that has been long lobbied for and it is now overdue."

Cr Cook said her residents also wanted the free ferry service enjoyed by other inner-city suburbs to extend to Bulimba and Teneriffe.

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Brisbane City Council will vote to ask for review of pets on public transport

Brisbane City Council will today vote to ask the State Government to review the rules surrounding pets on public transport, meaning dogs could soon be allowed to travel on CityCats.

DOGS could soon be allowed on Brisbane's ferries under a trial to make public transport more attractive.

Brisbane City Council will today formally vote to ask Transport Minister Mark Bailey to review the rules surrounding pets on public transport, after a petition from residents.

Mr Bailey has already announced he supports a trial of dogs on ferries and told ABC Radio this morning it was something that worked well in New South Wales, Victoria, London and New York.

"I was lucky enough to live in New York for a couple of years, people often took small dogs in bags that looked like handbags ... and they would take them on the subway, you would see it quite often," he said.

"And of course they were contained so there was no issue there with affecting other passengers."

He said the trial would be limited to dogs and ferries at this stage but did not rule out expansion to buses and trains in the future, saying it was "not impossible".

Bulimba based property consultant Paul Liddy said allowing pets on public transport would open up the "opportunity to enjoy Brisbane with my dog as I could never before without leaving a carbon footprint, creating more traffic and parking problems".

"She can only sniff the dirt in the Bulimba dog park for so long without needing more adventures," Mr Liddy said.

"People who don't own dogs could see improvement in their lifestyle by a reduction in dogs barking, digging holes and being generally destructive which is what they do to cure boredom and burn energy. A tired and and contented dog is a happy dog."

Mr Liddy welcomed Brisbane City Council's decision and said he was "delighted that council have seen the potential benefits to all the community".

He said the benefits would far outweigh "the minor inconveniences a very small percentage of the community may experience".

"Of course at the end of the day to state government decision, but the support of Brisbane city council Is vital," Mr Liddy said.

New Farm's Annie Boxall said the vote and potential trial was "extremely exciting".

"I do really hope that it will move Translink to change a very rigid and out-of-step policy about dogs on transport," Ms Boxall said.

"If it does get the green light, it is just so wonderful Brisbane (it's legislators, transport operators and community) are growing and adapting to modern world-class standards particularly in terms of inner-city lifestyle which – in many instances – includes pets."

She said many inner-city pets often went to work and socialised with their friends and communities "in the inner-city ring and if this goes through, it will mean so many of those pet owners will not have to get the car on the road to socialise, shop and spend time and money in the surrounding communities as well".

"And one would hope that will make a difference to parking and road congestion too."

She said the move would mean she could "take my dog to visit my Mum without having to pay the exorbitant parking fees on a week day – between $40-60 sometimes".

While the trial would be a great move, Ms Boxall said she was concerned about some of the restrictions.

"It is disappointing muzzles would be suggested as part of the proposal (if that is fact) as seeing any dog in a muzzle has a psychologically negative effect on how people view dogs," she said

"In addition, dogs can get agitated with the restrictive nature of that apparatus which frankly adds to the negative perceptions. I am concerned this sets dogs/the process up for failure."

"A positive show of well-trained dogs on a trial and some broader education to dog owners about expectations would be a better strategy – responsibility put 100% on the pet owner.

"Personally, I will not put Banjo in a muzzle as he is well trained and very people friendly and responds well to complex situations. I would be happy to have him in a closed carrier/dog bag or to sit with him in a specific area with him on a ferry, bus or train (or plane for that matter)."

Mr Bailey said New South Wales also allowed dogs on ferries if they were contained in a box or basket while Victoria also allowed pets on public transport with their own rules.

"We obviously want public transport to be more friendly ... We need to ensure it continues to be safe," he said.

"Not everyone loves dogs, we've got to remember that but it is well-managed in other jurisdictions."

He said the Queensland Government would start researching rules where pets were allowed on public transport and see what could apply in Brisbane, including how they should be contained and controlled and any size restrictions.

Mr Bailey said this would be combined with consultations with stakeholders, staff and ferry operators to see what was practical and appropriate.

[ozbob]

It's #InternationalDogDay so here are some of our favourite dogs on trains and in stations. #dogsontrains ^Ste pic.twitter.com/Z5rQNJTZhi

— ScotRail (@ScotRail) August 26, 2019

[ozbob]

https://translink.com.au/service-updates/244931

Proposed trial of pet dogs on ferries

Have your say!

The Queensland Government is proposing a trial to allow pet dogs to travel on Brisbane River ferry services, including CityCats.

The conditions of the proposed trial would require that dogs:

only travel during off-peak times (dogs will not be permitted between 6am – 8.30am and 3.30pm – 7pm Monday to Friday)
be in a carrier or on a lead and wearing a muzzle
remain under the control of their handler at all times.
We're seeking feedback from the community and stakeholders, including the ferry operator, to inform further requirements.

Please complete the 'Pet dogs on ferries' survey at http://www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au/gi/consultation/6751/view.html to have your say on these recommendations, or on any aspect of the  proposed trial.

The survey will be open from Friday 30 August until 30 September 2019.

Proposed trial of pet dogs on ferries
🐶>⛴️ https://t.co/25K33KplPt#bnepol #qldpol pic.twitter.com/BpJ9giRIv3

— RAIL_BoT_Forum (@railbotforum) August 30, 2019

[ozbob]

Brisbanetimes --> CityCats to ferry city's dogs by Christmas

Dogs will be allowed on Brisbane's CityCats and ferries before Christmas, after 86 per cent of people supported the idea in a TransLink survey.

More than 5000 people voted in the month-long survey, which was announced after the idea was raised in a Brisbane City Council committee meeting in August.

Dogs will not be allowed between the peak times of 6am and 8.30am or between 3.30pm and 7pm Monday to Friday.

They will be permitted to travel with their carers outside those times and at any time on weekends.

The dogs must be in a carrier or on a lead and wearing a muzzle. They must remain with their carer.

Transport Minister Mark Bailey said TransLink would begin a three-month trial after the idea was strongly backed by the community.

"People have been telling us for a while now that they wanted us to give this idea a go, but it was important that we asked people for their views on how the trial could be run," Mr Bailey said.

Mr Bailey said TransLink was surprised the idea was also supported by people who did not own dogs.

"It probably isn't surprising that the vast majority of dog owners and assistance dog owners supported the trial," Mr Bailey said.

"But more than half of respondents who did not own a dog also thought the trial was a good idea.

"Findings showed 85 per cent of respondents supported pet dogs travelling on CityCats, 80 per cent on Cross River Ferries and 77 per cent on CityHoppers."

The survey showed most people did not mind whether dogs were allowed inside the CityCats or ferries, although some people preferred dogs to stay on the outside area of the CityCat.

"Sixty-seven per cent of respondents said they did not mind whether the animals were inside or outside CityHoppers and Cross River Ferries, while only 33 per cent preferred to have the dogs remain outside," Mr Bailey said.

The three-month trial will allow TransLink to monitor how people respond to the dogs on CityCats and ferries and how it influences how they use the service.

Mr Bailey said it would give TransLink time to consider extending the trial and making any necessary changes.

Brisbane City Council, which put the idea on the city agenda by discussing it in a council committee and writing to the state government, welcomed the three-month trial.

"I'm so glad council was able to work with residents to encourage the state to make this trial a reality for the thousands of people who have been calling for it," Public Transport chairwoman Krista Adams said.

"I think the conditions of the three-month trial are appropriate and I look forward to seeing how the trial goes.

"I encourage everyone, and their dogs, to jump on board a CityCat or ferry throughout the trial and experience all there is to see and do in Brisbane."

TransLink will prepare a report to Mr Bailey after considering in detail the large number of public responses.

Mr Bailey said a start date for the three-month trial would be announced after he received those findings.

A spokesman for Mr Bailey said he believed the three-month trial would begin before Christmas.

The council, ferry operator Transdev and accessibility reference groups will be consulted before any trial starts.

Dogs are allowed on ferries in other east-coast states.

After the trial, Mr Bailey would need to oversee amendments to the Transport Operations Act 1994, which bans dogs on CityCats and ferries.

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Dogs to ride on CityCats under State Government trial

DOGS will soon be allowed to travel on Brisbane's ferries and CityCats after residents overwhelmingly backed a push for a three month trial.

Transport Minister Mark Bailey today confirmed the Government would move ahead with a trial, which is expected to kick off before the end of the year.

It comes after 86 per cent of the almost 5,000 respondents to a State Government poll supported the idea.

During the trial, pet dogs will only be allowed on ferries and CityCats during off-peak times and must be in a carrier, or in a lead and wearing a muzzle.

While transport authorities are yet to determine if there will be a designated area on the vessels for pooches, they will always have to be under the control of their handler.

Mr Bailey said a start day for the trial would be announced once TransLink had analysed feedback from the Government survey to determine any further rules.

"It probably isn't surprising that the vast majority of dog owners and assistance dog owners supported the trial, but more than half of respondents who did not own a dog also thought the trial was a good idea," he said.

"Findings showed 85 per cent of respondents supported pet dogs travelling on CityCats, 80 per cent on cross-river ferries and 77 per cent on City Hoppers.

"People have been telling us for a while now that they wanted us to give this idea a go, but it was important that we asked people for their views on how the trial could be run."

The survey also found 67 per cent of respondents did not mind whether dogs were inside or outside City Hoppers and cross-river ferries, with 33 per cent saying they preferred them to remain outside.

TransLink will hold discussions with Brisbane City Council and accessibility reference groups in the coming weeks before the trial commences.

The trial does not extend to other pets, such as cats.

Brisbane City Council's Public and Active Transport Chair Krista Adams said she believed the conditions of the trial were appropriate.

"I encourage everyone, and their dogs, to jump on board a CityCat or ferry throughout the trial and experience all there is to see and do in Brisbane," she said.

"I'm so glad Council was able to work with residents to encourage the State to make this trial a reality for the thousands of people who have been calling for it."

Bulimba dog owner Paul Liddy, who co-created the River City Dogs Association to push for the change, said he was "delighted that it's come through as fast as it has".

"I am sure that within a month or so Brisbane will have fully embraced the concept," Mr Liddy said.

"I am comfortable with the rules. I would be like most dog owners, we were very happy to be as accommodating as possible. We appreciate it's a privilege not a right and we are more than happy to work within their parameters."

Mr Liddy said he believe muzzling and leashing dogs was essential if dogs were not officially "approved as they may be under new legislation if it goes through".

He said the restraints would protect the majority of dog owners from the small number who may not abide by the rules.

[verbatim9]

I saw a smooth Jack Russell puppy on the train today. Must of been a companion puppy  It was sticking its head out of the shopping bag.

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/TransLinkSEQ/status/1202732640127737857

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/ozbob13/status/1203788736590270464

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/AklTransport/status/1203811708374044675

[ozbob]

https://twitter.com/trashyhonky/status/1206088842589007878

[ozbob]

Couriermail --> Queensland ferry, CityCat trail to change open public transport up to pets nationwide

Pet owners could soon be able to bring their four-legged friends on public transport, if recommendations from a TransLink trial prove positive. See the pet-friendly pubs near you too.

Brisbane has long been known as the River City and now its four-legged residents will have the opportunity to experience the joy water travel.

TransLink is running a three-month trial allowing pet dogs to travel on board Brisbane River ferries and CityCats.

Brisbane City Council and TransLink were persuaded to relax the rules after a survey of 5000 people found 86 per cent to be in favour of sharing public transport with our furry friends.

A YouGov Galaxy Poll conducted for Dogs of Oz suggested dogs get a ruff deal in general when it comes to accessing public space.

Most of those surveyed (76 per cent) support the idea of dogs being allowed to exercise on beaches during designated hours and 71 per cent believed there should be more designated off leash areas.

More than half said dogs should be allowed on public transport.

Head of TransLink Matt Longland said customer feedback during the trial had been positive and the majority of travelling dogs had been well behaved.

"The Brisbane trial allows pet dogs to travel for free in off-peak times and will provide TransLink with an opportunity to gain feedback and insights from our customers and our ferry operators regarding this policy change – making sure it is safe and operationally feasible," he said.

The trial ends at the beginning of March and will likely set the tone for other states.

Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore is a big advocate for pet inclusion in everyday life.

"For many years, I have called on the government to make it easier to bring pets on public transport, or have them in apartments, retirement villages and rental properties," Ms Moore said.

"In other global cities like New York City and London, pets are allowed to travel with their owners as long as they are well behaved and remain on leads.

"It's a model that should be pursued here in Australia, to allow pet owners to visit the park, the vet or family and friends without needing to drive."

In the Brisbane trial, dogs are required to wear a muzzle and to ride in the open stern compartment of the ferries and CityCats in off-peak periods.

Owners are limited to taking a maximum of two dogs on board and they must be kept on a leash at all times.

Upon completion of the trial, TransLink will review customer and staff feedback to make recommendations regarding a permanent implementation of the initiative.