RSPCA backs push to allow dogs on Brisbane public transport

The state’s peak animal welfare group has backed a push to allow some pets to travel on buses, trains and ferries as public support for the potentially lifesaving idea grows.

Alex Morris from Kangaroo Point (042384122) waits for the ferry at Holman Street Ferry terminal, Kangaroo Point.

THE state’s peak animal welfare group has backed a push to allow pets to travel on buses, trains and ferries in a bid to stop animals being left in hot cars.

RSPCA Queensland has thrown its support behind a petition that has amassed hundreds of signatures calling on Brisbane City Council to allow commuters to take their dogs on the city’s public transport services.

Petition calls time on dog ban on ferries

The organisation says it receives more than 1,000 distress calls about animals left in hot cars every year and believes the move could turn these numbers around.

RSPCA spokeswoman Alex Hyndman Hill said the idea would also bring the River City in line with other major cities, including Sydney, New York City and Paris.

New Farm resident Annie Boxall wants dogs to be allowed on public transport. Picture: AAP Image/Richard Walker

“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 (of animals left in hot cars),” she said.

“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.”

The RSPCA says pooches would have to be given a “good boy” tick of approval for behaviour and socialisation standards before they would be allowed to travel on public transport.

Ms Hyndman Hill said laws should be “modernised” to recognise the increasing number of pet owners in Brisbane.

“It’s important to review laws to make sure they meet the current needs and expectations of society, and the petition highlights that people want this change,” she said.

“It’s not fair that there is a go card for humans but a no card for our pets.”