LIMERICK City and County Council has paved the way for the county to become the most pet friendly in Ireland.
A motion put forward by Aontú Cllr Sarah Beasley that the Council adopt a PAW policy (Pets Are Welcome) by providing stickers with paw print symbols to pet friendly businesses was passed. A comprehensive list of pet friendly businesses and establishments will now be listed on Limerick.ie.
“I couldn’t tell you the times I have been asked by tourists and visitors to Limerick just why it doesn’t have a pet friendly policy, I was at a loss to answer,” Cllr Beasley commented.
“I have travelled all over the world and so many places are actively pet friendly. More and more people are keeping dogs as pets for myriads of reasons, they are family,” she said.
“They are a valuable lifeline for elderly people and those with disabilities and are their constant companions. So many of these people were severely curtailed from socialising  and engaging in their communities solely because they couldn’t bring their pets with them.
“Thankfully, more places are recognising it’s actually good for business; it encourages people who would be reluctant to go to places in case their pets were unwelcome, it’s fosters good responsible pet ownership. and it’s absolutely brilliant for tourism.”
Cllr Beasley added that “also, it is crucially important for people who rely on their dogs for emotional support, absolutely vital. Limerick is leading the way and that is so positive.”