Shoppers divided over Bunnings pet policy

It is not unusual to see people shopping with their dogs at Bunnings, especially since the retail giant started welcoming dogs into their stores over eight years ago. 

However, not all shoppers agree with the policy with Triple M Breakfast host Greg ‘Marto’ Martin reigniting the debate, after spotting 12 dogs in his local Bunnings store.

“I love dogs, but there’s a disturbing trend,” Marto, a fellow dog owner, said.

He added that he doesn't take his kelpie to the shops with him as it's "not necessary". 

Dogs are allowed in the hardware store if  if they’re friendly, on a lead, under control and comply with the conditions of entry. 

Pet owners also need to clean up after their dogs in the "rare occasion" an accident occurs. 

While Marto initially thought the dog policy was a "great thing", as the situation evolved over the years, he now argues that "dogs don't want or need to go," adding "we've got to stop all this."

"They don't like stopping, dogs like walking," he said.

His co-host Margaux Parker argued that "dogs need love too", but one caller sided with Marto saying he once witnessed  a dog "walk down the end of an aisle, cock its leg on the water bottles and start p***inng on it."

"The lady didn't even end up clean it up," the caller added.

"She just went on her way and left a little pile of p**s on the floor."

One social media user said: “Ridiculous to take your dog to the hardware store. Leave them at home.”

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

Others defended those who bring their dogs in-store, with one writing: “Dogs everywhere! I’m for it. They make me happy. Pure joy." 

“My dog loves a trip to Bunnings, gets all the pats," another added. 

A Bunnings spokesperson said: “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." 

“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.”

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