Viral photo of dogs on public transit sparks debate: People need to respect public spaces

A photo of two dogs sitting on passenger seats on a Sydney light rail service has ignited a heated debate online, with many labelling the act as “entitled.”The image, posted to Reddit, shows two small dogs seated next to their owners, who are holding onto their leashes.“Typical entitled dog owners flouting public transport rules,” the original poster wrote.The comment section quickly filled with Sydneysiders divided over both the etiquette and legality of the situation.One remarked, “Great, now those dogs have their dirty butts rubbing all over the seats.Gross.”Another added: “I love dogs and have a German Shepherd myself, but I would never do this nor want to see any other dog on public transport chairs”.“As a dog owner myself, this p**ses me off so much.

I absolutely hate it when other dog owners flout the rules,” a third said.Some also pointed out the potential health risks.“I generally am pro-dog in any debate, but the reality is that pet dander allergy is one of the most common allergies.You can make people sick by putting these pups on seats,” wrote one user.Others just saw it as a blatant disregard for shared spaces.“I love dogs, but I wouldn’t do this.

People need to respect public spaces,” one person commented, while others described the move as “nasty”, “clueless”, and “useless.”Concerns were also raised for people with illnesses, disabilities or a fear of dogs.“I don’t want to take my disabled and/or immunocompromised clients on public transport for something like this to happen to them,” wrote one woman.“It’s so avoidable, it’s dumb.”However, some supported the idea of dogs on public transport, arguing that Sydney lags behind other global cities, especially across Europe and the Americas, where dogs are commonly allowed.“In Europe, dogs are everywhere: trains, restaurants, etc.,” said one commenter.“Too many rules in this country,” another added.“For such an outdoorsy city, it’s insane...