A garden centre has introduced a ban to stop its Halloween displays being ruined by urinating dogs.
Southwood Garden Centre, near Hull, said dogs were no longer welcome in its indoor Halloween and Christmas display areas.
In a social media post, management said: “We’ve had multiple cases of male dogs marking our displays and products, and, unfortunately, not all owners have taken responsibility.”
Dogs were still welcome in the plant area, outside areas, coffee shop and farm shops, as long as they were well behaved and under full control, the centre added.
The social post continued: “We love dogs, they’re part of the family. But, sadly, due to repeated incidents we’ve had to make a change.
“It’s not fair on our team who work hard to keep everything clean and enjoyable for everyone.
“We truly appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we try to maintain a magical and clean environment for all our guests.”
David Hickson says owners should take responsibility for their pets [BBC]
Small dogs can be carried through the Christmas section, management said.
The restrictions have had a mixed response.
Former dog owner, David Hickson, 72, said dogs should be allowed in such premises as long as they are well behaved.
He added: “Maybe it is a bit over the top banning the dogs in those areas [Christmas and Halloween displays]. Maybe [they could] have warning signs up beforehand?”
Julie Smith, 57, who owned a Yorkshire terrier for 13 years, said she had no problem with dogs being inside the garden centre.
She said: “Dogs nowadays, especially the small ones, are like children to people [rather] than just pets.”
Emma Clark, 41, who owns a beagle and cocker spaniel cross, said the ban did not bother her.
“I’m still grateful we can still come and use the facilities, like the cafe and have a wander round and use the play area,” she said.
“I can understand why they do it.”
Alan Harrison said customers would not want dogs “weeing all over stuff” [BBC]
Alan Harrison, 69, was also indifferent.
But he added: “You don’t want them weeing all over the stuff.”
Dog behaviour expert, Pamela Dempsey, said: “It always comes down to owner responsibility. People don’t put in the work to prepare their dog.”
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