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Shame to see a half page story in today's Herald Sun regarding the petty, ongoing battle between Port Melbourne and Williamstown over an incident some six years ago where Williamstown president Trevor Monti's mutt wasn't allowed into Port Melbourne's TEAC Oval. Williamstown have stirred the pot annually with a "dog show" when they play home games against Port Melbourne.
Port reportedly lodged a complaint with AFL Victoria that dog droppings were left on the ground following the half time event at the ground last month.
It's tragic that the only publicity the league seem to get are over minor, off field issues.
The concept of a dog show just allows dogs of all shapes and sizes to venture to Pt Gellibrand to run amok and poop everywhere. I am not a dog lover, in fact the things terrify me, and unleashed dogs at VFL games make me uncomfortable. There was one there on Sunday chasing a loose ball on the grass, and having it tearing past at a decent speed is inconsiderate and dangerous to other spectators. A nice little poodle might be alright, a big german shepherd, a bulldog or a greyhound surely are not. Particularly if not on a leash.
But my issue aside, surely dog faeces on the ground isn't acceptable. It might be a million to one chance of happening, but if a player has an open wound infected by dog shit it could be very dangerous.
It'll be interesting to see what the VFL do, but surely its time after six years to see the VFL end this on going drama. If they had the guts they'd encourage all clubs to ban dogs entering grounds - or at least encourage clubs to ask owners to keep their pooch on a leash. Williamstown should can their dog show which seems to be just a petty reminder of an incident which should've been dead and buried years ago.
Thoughts? Do you take your dog to the footy? Do dogs bother you at the footy?
