‘Disturbing’: Star’s shock at Bunnings trend

Dogs in retail stores have always been a hot topic, but the debate has been sparked once again after a radio host spotted 12 dogs on one trip.

Dogs in retail stores have always been a hot topic, but the debate has ignited once again after a radio host spotted 12 dogs on one trip.

Greg “Marto” Martin declared there was a “disturbing” trend emerging at Bunnings after going into the Newstead, Brisbane, store on Wednesday.

Mr Martin, who hosts Triple M Breakfast with Marto, Margaux & Dan in Brisbane, said he’d been watching the situation evolve over the years.

He said he previously thought it was a “great thing” when Bunnings announced dogs could be in stores as long as they were on a leash.

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Dogs in Bunnings has always been a hot button topic. Picture: Facebook

Dogs are only allowed in stores if they’re friendly, on a lead, under control and comply with the conditions of entry. Bunnings staff can refuse entry to a person with a dog or ask a customer to leave if their dog is displaying aggressive behaviour.

People also must clean up after their dogs in the “rare occasion” an accident happens in stores.

“I saw three dogs in one trolley yesterday. They had goods in the bottom [of the trolley] and three dogs in the top bit,” he said.

“I saw 12 dogs in total.”

He said “no dog” wanted to be dragged about. He said his own dog, a kelpie named Ted, does not go to shops or cafes.

Many social media users were divided on the issue.

“Dogs everywhere! I’m for it. They make me happy. Pure joy,” one social media user said.

Another added: “My dog loves a trip to Bunnings, gets all the pats.”

“People that take dogs everywhere, cause dogs to have anxiety. Leave them in the yard protecting your house, like they’re meant to,” one said.

Another social media user said: “I’m sure they’ll stop letting dogs in once someone trips on one.”

“It’s the most socially inept thing I’ve witnessed in my life! Women putting their dogs in clothing or bows etc then in a car, then putting them in a trolley to walk around Bunnings,” one said.

A radio host has brought it up again. Picture: Facebook

Another said: “Ridiculous to take your dog to the hardware store. Leave them at home.”

“Dogs want to go everywhere with the owners,” one social media user declared.

Rod Caust, Bunnings’ director of stores, said dogs have been welcomed into stores for “many years.

“We’ve been welcoming pets into our stores for many years and love the feedback from customers about how much they enjoy having their four-legged companions with them while they shop with us,” Mr Caust said.

“Like many other retailers that offer pet products, we take a commonsense approach when welcoming dogs into our stores. The feedback we receive shows that the vast majority of pet owners are respectful of other customers and our team when they’re in our stores.

“We know this topic comes up from time to time, however what remains consistent is the support we see from customers for allowing pets in our stores and our commitment to maintain this.”

Originally published as ‘Disturbing’: Star’s shock at Bunnings trend