The Farm Gate Market’s no dog policy will be enforced from this weekend following dog attack

A dog attack at a Hobart market has prompted the enforcement of a firm canine ban at future market gatherings.

Farm Gate Market, Hobart. Picture Chris Kidd

• Hobart’s Farm Gate Market set to continue with more strict social distancing measures in place
• Hobart’s Farm Gate Market reopens to the delight of stallholders and shoppers

A VICIOUS dog attack at a Hobart market has prompted the enforcement of a firm canine ban at future market gatherings.

Hobart’s Farm Gate Market organisers said about 100 witnesses watched on last weekend as a passing dog was set upon by a tethered dog.

Organisers said market staff and people who pulled the attacking dog off the other pooch were left injured and distressed after the attack.

Staff described the incident as “incredibly traumatising”.

“While this recent incident is one of the worst we have faced, it is by no means the only one,” organisers said.

“Aggressive dogs pose an obvious danger, but even the best behaved animals can react when stressed⁣ or threatened – and an event environment, with its sensory overload of noises, smells, crowds, confined spaces and unpredictable movements by people, is a perfect storm. ⁣”

It’s prompted market organisers to enforce its no dog policy at the Sunday market.

“After the weekly dose of unwarranted⁣ abuse directed at us from some dog owners, when asked to comply with the no dog policy we have had for 10 years, we are saying enough is enough,” staff said.

“⁣Following on from this incident we ask that you respect and adhere to the market’s very firm NO DOG policy that forms part of our Conditions of Entry⁣ into the market to shop with us.

“This includes tying your dog up to a railing, pole or other tethering point, and also includes no carrying your dog through the market. ⁣”

Market organisers are saying no dogs are allowed within the vicinity of Bathurst Street, between Elizabeth and Murray Streets during Farm Gate Market⁣.

“For the sake of all our patrons, the children who attend the market and other dogs, it’s now time to leave your pooch at home,” organiser said.

Please treat our staff with respect and politeness as we communicate this message – we’re a small team and we are doing our very best to keep everyone safe and happy each and every Sunday. ⁣

The ban does not include service and assistance dogs.

Hobart City Council has been contacted for comment.