Pet Owners Advocate for Allowing Pets on Public Transport in NSW

Pet owners in New South Wales are fighting for the right to bring their furry companions on public transport, staging a “pawtest” outside the NSW parliament. The protest, organized by retailer Pet Circle, saw attendees holding signs with pictures of their dogs, who were unable to attend because they couldn’t catch the train.

More than 20,000 signatures have been gathered for an online petition calling for pets to be allowed on public transport and domestic flights. The petition, addressed to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s dog, Toto, emphasizes the importance of allowing pet parents to travel with their beloved animals.

Animal Justice Party MP Emma Hurst joined the protest, advocating for a change in the state’s rules regarding animals on public transport. She believes that the transport system should be inclusive of companion animals, just like it has quiet carriages for passengers seeking a peaceful journey.

Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore has also expressed support for allowing pets on public transport, highlighting the high number of cats and dogs in the area where many residents do not own cars. While accredited assistance animals are permitted on all forms of public transport, pets are currently banned from trains and stations.

Policies on pet travel are under review, with a spokesperson for NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen stating that the needs of all passengers, including individuals with disabilities and transport workers, must be considered. While the benefits of allowing pets on public transport are recognized, the spokesperson emphasized the importance of balancing these with the needs of other passengers.

As the debate continues, pet owners in NSW are hopeful that their furry friends will soon be able to accompany them on their public transport journeys.