It's academic
Defining the human/dog relationship
Zach
Growing up in Germany, like in many European countries, I would see dogs in department stores, at the newsagent (and I mean inside), in restaurants, pubs, small apartments - even in 5 star hotels! It is very different for dog owners in Australia.
You want to go on holidays, but feel sad about putting your dog in a kennel. Or you may have looked at holiday accommodation that allows dogs, but the ones you like are booked out 12 months ahead. When you go out shopping or out for a coffee on the weekend, your dog stays home (*sigh* feels as lonely as on a weekday…). And if you are renting, it can be tough finding nice accommodation that permits dog. And how many times have you arrived at a picnic spot or beach and found a ‘No Dogs’ sign?
Europeans seem to have recognised that dogs can hold a similar companionship status to other humans, and that it is important to some people that they can include their dog in everyday life. Public inclusion is obviously possible, so why can’t we do it in Australia?
For the last 14 years I have been in private practice as a psychologist. Many of my clients confirm that their dog plays an important role in their life, and that they consider their dog to be a family member. Despite the intimate relationship between some individuals and their canine companions, our community places strong constraints on dog owners. Australian dogs are not permitted in many public places, in most workplaces and schools or community events. Dog owners are subject to legislation dictating how, when and where they may exercise and socialise their companions and are not permitted leave from work for pet health reasons or to grieve following the death of a pet.
At the beach
My current PHD study is attempting to more clearly define the nature of the human-dog relationship. A web-based questionnaire will form the basis for future interview-based exploratory research to assess the roles dogs play in people’s lives, and the needs and constraints experienced by dog owners. Given that 40% of Australian households have a dog, and the health benefits believed to be associated with companion dog ownership, this knowledge could assist in a review of current public policies relating to constraints placed on owners and their dogs.
