Poll Proves Aussies wish to Dine with Dogs
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media release: 2 July, 2012
Poll Proves Aussies wish to Dine with Dogs
The VetShopAustralia.com.au poll results are in which prove Aussies want to dine out with their pets! The Australia-wide poll was conducted to determine community views on allowing dogs in the outdoor area of eating establishments.
VetShopAustralia.com.au’s in-house Vet, Dr Mark Perissinotto found, “88.24% of survey respondents were in favor of letting dogs accompany their owners in alfresco dining areas.”
The poll results reflect the nation’s pet-lover culture; however these attitudes are in stark contrast with the current code outlined by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ). The code does not allow animals in areas where food is handled, with the exception of assistance dogs.
“People who are accompanied by their pet dog are currently being kept out of eating establishments, so we are not just leaving dogs out in the cold, but our fellow Australian diners,” Dr Perissinotto said.
“The code does not accurately represent community views on the issue, as only 11.76% of poll respondents suggested that access should be limited to Guide or Assistance Dogs, and not one person voted against allowing any dogs in outdoor dining areas.”
Dr Perissinotto urges dog owners to contact their local council to lobby their support, as FSANZ considers amending the code to allow dogs in outdoor eating areas.
“The statistics prove there is overwhelming support for the proposed amendment. To achieve change, the authorities need to be made aware of shifting public opinions,” Dr Perissinotto said.
The push for such amendments to the code is becoming increasingly evident. Many Australian jurisdictions have made regulations that enable dogs to accompany their owners in outdoor eating-areas.
“Pet owners should not be marginalized when it comes to dining out, and many restaurant owners agree,” Dr Perissnotto said.
Currently the code as outlined by FSANZ is interpreted by different state governments, resulting in an inconsistent approach to the issue across the nation, which proves confusing for pet and restaurant owners alike.
“Unfortunately, there have been incidences where overly-cautious restaurants owners have refused entry to people with visual impairments, because they are accompanied by an assistance dog,” Dr Perissinotto said.
“Pet owners can also be caught unawares, as some local council laws hold the dog owner, rather than the business owner, responsible for any breeches of the code.”
Changes to the code will prompt state legislation changes; giving business owners across the country the ability to choose whether or not they cater for customers accompanied by pets, in their outdoor areas.
“Pet owners should be able to enjoy Australia’s outdoor lifestyle – including participation in alfresco dining after a walk with the family dog; and Australian restaurants should be able to offer them this service,” Dr Perissinotto said.
FSANZ has already conducted a risk assessment which found the potential risk for the foodborne transmission of disease from a pet dog to a human outdoors, to be negligible.
“As a Vet, I have absolute confidence in the FSANZ’s findings and whole-heartedly agree that regulations should reflect the conclusion of their assessment and community views,” Dr Perissinotto said.
Although FSANZ will no longer be accepting submissions on the proposal, it is anticipated they will make a decision about the proposed amendments, later in the year.
ENDS
Further information
Media Contact: Jemma Lenton 07 5453 4840
Jemma.lenton@vetshoponline.com
Address: 5/42 Owen Creek RD. Forest Glen QLD
Go to the Dr Mark bio page for more information about Dr Mark Perissinotto.