The Cove resident John Robertson said his afternoon dog park excursions with his beloved 3-year-old miniature poodle, Pepper, would be "impossible" by bus under the Otago Regional Council’s current policies.
The 75-year-old retiree, who lives alone, drives to various parks by car, but was concerned he may not be fit to hold a driver’s licence in the near future — leading him to consider the alternatives.
Orbus’ website says domestic pets are only allowed to travel on buses during off-peak times and while "fully enclosed in a suitable pet carrier".
Under the Dog Control Act 1996, service dogs are also allowed to sit on the bus floor when with their handler.
But Mr Robertson said the buses did not stop close enough to the dog parks and lugging a huge plastic carrier with the 9kg Pepper inside was "basically impractical".
He also lived too far away to easily walk to any dog parks — the closest being Rotary Park, and the favourite Jubilee Park.
"I feel the council has dropped the ball in providing a reasonable service, especially to the elderly in the community.
"The council is making it essentially impossible for people like me to take their dog for its daily run."
Pepper was his "companion" and their afternoon trips were a social activity that was good for both of them, Mr Robertson said."I want me to be fit and healthy, and you become quite bonded to your dog.
"You start to think in terms of him being like your kids."
He suggested the council adopt rules similar to Auckland Transport, which allows pet dogs on buses and trains, either wearing a cage-type muzzle and lead, or in an approved carrier.
ORC transport manager Lorraine Cheyne said the policy was determined by the Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP), which was consulted on with the public in 2021.
It was reviewed roughly every three years, and yesterday considered a new draft plan to go out for consultation next week.
"I would encourage this person to present his concerns to council through a submission on the draft RPTP 2024 later this month.
"This will enable council to give direct consideration of his concerns, in the context of providing a reasonable service that best meets the needs of all members of the community."
