Comments on: No Dogs Allowed

By: Pete

Pete — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 17:52:15 +0000

One of the things I most liked about visiting France were all the dogs everywhere, even in restaurants. They pull it off with complete respect (for all species) and aplomb. And I did not see one dog who was ever a problem, in 16 days. In fact, if I was a dog I think I would probably love it–it’s better than being cooped up at home all day long. It’s a trend I hope catches on in Portland–even if there are few accidents on the MAX. There are far worse things in this world than a little dog pee.

Petulant Pete, Pretentious Portland
http://pretentiousportland.blogspot.com/

By: Jennifer

Jennifer — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 19:48:47 +0000

I’ve never taken my dogs on MAX, and doubt I ever will. But for people who use that as their main mode of transportation I think there should be some rule in place to allow dogs to legally ride out of a carrier. Carriers are great for small dogs, but my labradors are 80lbs each. Perhaps muzzles and traffic leashes? (which is either a leash handle with a clip or a less than 2 ft leash)
p.s. I rarely fold the stroller, juggling that and all the gear that goes in it plus a toddler who will take any opportunity to escape is more dangerous than breaking the rule.

By: jonashpdx

jonashpdx — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 17:36:58 +0000

i wasn’t actually arguing FOR collapsing a stroller, i’m just saying that that’s what the official rule on the max train is, and that those rules are somewhat arbitrary, though sometimes (as in the case of dogs) necessary, but are often ignored.

and there’s no rule that i can find about the number of bikes allowed on a train, though i’ve seen fare-checkers kick bikes off if there were more than the two that could hang off the bike hangers, and i’m CERTAIN i’d never see a parent kicked off with a kid in a stoller.

By: Melissa

Melissa — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 17:29:33 +0000

I completely agree about the dog issue. I have two and though they are very well behaved I would never consider bringing them on a train!

I do want to address the stroller issue though. If you’ve ever traveled with a baby or small child by yourself you would understand. Imagine carrying your child, a diaper bag, and whatever else you may have. Now throw in having to entertain your child, possibly feed them if they are hungry (or I guess you could let them scream – that would win you some friends on the train), AND collapse a stroller. How are you going to get off the train with your child and belongings and then manage to get the stroller reopened with one hand and get your child in it?

I think a bicycle takes up more room than a stroller but those are welcome on the train (thank goodness!). I’ve also seen folks headed to the airport with several pieces of large luggage. So I tend to be sympathetic to the parents out there and even try to lend a hand when I can. I encourage all you out there to do the same!

By: dieselboi

dieselboi — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:46:40 +0000

As a small dog owner, I don’t bring my dog to where I eat. Even if he/she were in a carrier of some sort.
Regarding MAX, I agree that the rules should be enforced better. Every owner believes they “know” their dog and that “their” dog would never act up or bite or whatever. Yet, there have been more than a few times when I have seen the opposite in certain situations. Dogs are dogs and they have a pack mentality. They will react to things you can never prepare for. Bringing them in a crowded area will just exacerbate the issue in my humble opinion.
I’m not worried about the first time a dog pees or poops on max. I’m worried about the first time a dog lunges at a kid or worse.

By: PAgent

PAgent — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:40:54 +0000

And what’s with folks bringing their little toy dogs into the food court at Pioneer Place? I guess I missed the memo about little yappy dogs being a stylish fashion accessory. But regardless, food is being served there, people. If it isn’t a service dog, don’t bring it in.

By: Aaron B. Hockley

Aaron B. Hockley — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:39:40 +0000

And in a less sarcastic comment, my thoughts are that while it would be neat for common sense to prevail, there is a noticeable lack of common sense at times... hence the need for rules. And if you're going to have rules, they need to be enforced. Equally. Without bending: http://www.portlandfeed.com/2007/01/29/dogs-on-the-max/

By: Aaron B. Hockley

Aaron B. Hockley — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:34:18 +0000

“but they’re like kids, you always prefer your own to everybody else’s.”

Well DUH! That’s because my did, and dogs, are much better than anyone else’s. Apparently you just have a poor attitude, Ms. Fishbones. Hmph.

By: Banana Lee Fishbones

Banana Lee Fishbones — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:04:03 +0000

I’m calling it-this won’t be an issue until one of these dogs is stuck on the train but really needs to be walked and has an accident. AFAIK it hasn’t happened yet but when it does it will be a HUGE deal.

Why just MAX? What is it about Portland that people take their dogs EVERYWHERE???? I’m not anti-dog, but they’re like kids, you always prefer your own to everybody else’s.