The idea of dogs big and small hopping aboard Greater Victoria buses has brought barks of dismay from opponents and pats of approval from supporters who say it’s long overdue.
“The response has been swift and passionate,” said B.C. Transit spokeswoman Meribeth Burton.
By Friday afternoon, 90 people had contacted the Greater Victoria Transit Commission since it decided Tuesday to study the issue.
Staff will look at how Canadian cities that allow dogs to walk on board with their owners deal with issues from passenger safety to operator responsibility. Issues include legal liability, passengers who are afraid of dogs, access for aggressive breeds, allergies and cleanup duties.
Advocates for more canine access are asking that dogs on leash and wearing muzzles be allowed on buses during off-peak hours.
Two presentations — including an 800-name petition in favour of the change — were made to the commission last week by supporters, who cited Calgary, Montreal and Toronto, as well Britain, Italy, France, Germany and Switzerland, as jurisdictions that allow dogs on buses, trains and subways.
B.C. Transit allows only small furry or feathered animals — including dogs, cats, ferrets and birds — in secure carriers that can be held on riders’ laps, Burton said.
The transit study will include transit operators and other members of Local 333 and customer feedback before coming back to the commission on Dec. 9.
Union president Ben Williams, a dog owner, said members are concerned about added responsibilities for drivers, such as having to refuse boarding to some dogs.
“The concern would be, would it increase confrontation between passengers and operators,” he said. “There’s enough conflicts [already].”
He also raised the issue of how many passengers with dogs would be allowed on board at any one time.
The union wants to hear from drivers in Calgary and Toronto about their experiences and make management aware of any problems before a decision is made, Williams said. Toronto dog owners must pay to take their pets on transit, and the union would support a look at some kind of fee here, he added.
Rachel Armstrong, a dog owner and veterinarian technician, said proper rules would help mitigate any problems for other riders.
“As the owner of a large dog myself, I resent the fact that my well-behaved dog cannot ride because he is too big to fit in a carrier. … I can also say that many people who have pets do not own cars, which makes it difficult to get their pet to a vet when needed without incurring huge expenses,” Armstrong said.
Sample of opinions
Times Colonist readers are gnawing over whether leashed and muzzled pooches should be allowed on B.C. Transit buses. Here is a sampling of comments from our Facebook page:
Mary Hutson: “We have enough trouble with the drunk population. As a lifelong transit user and one who has small children, this would be horrible … This is a single vehicle with shared air.”
Kelly Wijdenes Miller: “Definitely yes. Most dogs are better behaved than most kids.”
Christina Cheply: “My son suffers from severe allergies to dogs. Having to deal with well-behaved service dogs can be a challenge; we wouldn’t be able to catch the bus anymore if they do this.”
Ann Behennah: “They’re dogs, not wild dingoes or wolves. Seriously, do your kids a favour and teach them how to interact safely with animals.”
Tanya Hud: “My dog is welcome in the bank, Canadian Tire, the Castle store, a dollar store, etc, etc, etc. I have never seen anyone freak out, get scared, have allergic reactions. Nothing but smiles…”
Jen Warnock: “I’m a dog person and I think this is a very bad idea. The liability insurance, for one, is going to be massive. There are already crowded conditions on buses. Please don’t add poop and dog fights to it.”
Sheila Fiorin: “I vote NO. Too many allergies! Frightened people, frightened animals could cause mayhem for the drivers. The driver has enough to deal with!”
Angela Mcpherson: “No thanks … my two kids are terrified of dogs even if they are on a leash. Not a good idea. Not everyone loves dogs.”
Sarah Anderson: “I’m allergic to noisy stinky kids but they aren’t banned off the buses!!! … People with allergies should be armed and ready for unexpected attacks. Common sense.”
