Deirdre Reynolds: Why it's time we joined the modern world and allowed dogs on public transport

"At least pets don't take part in antisocial behaviour or threaten commuters and staff. My dog is probably better behaved than your child, so why is she not allowed on a bus? That statement is sure to land me in the dog's house with parents everywhere, but even some frazzled mams and dads here would have to agree that it's easier to control a 12-year-old on four legs than two on public transport."

"And you can't put the latter on a leash. The comparison highlights the fundamental difference in controllability between pets and children on public transportation, suggesting that behavioral management should be the primary criterion for access rather than species classification."

The article argues that pets, particularly dogs, are often better behaved than children on public transportation yet face stricter access restrictions. Dogs do not engage in antisocial behavior or threaten commuters and staff, making them less disruptive than uncontrolled children. The comparison highlights the irony that animals can be leashed and controlled more easily than children, yet policies typically allow children while restricting pets. This raises questions about the logic behind public transport regulations and whether behavioral standards should be applied equally to all passengers regardless of species.

Read at Independent