Saddleworth canine behaviourist offers support to pub that banned dogs

The Kingfisher, in Greenfield, Saddleworth, announced that it was banning dogs after a member of staff was allegedly attacked by a customer’s canine.

The ban does not affect assistance dogs, and all dogs are still allowed outdoors at The Kingfisher if they are on a lead.

The move led to divided opinions on social media, but in a statement on the pub’s Facebook page, management said: “This decision has not been made lightly, and is with a heavy heart, but we are sure that you will understand that the safety and wellbeing of our team, and guests is number one priority.”

Rachel Bean, a qualified veterinary nurse who lives in nearby Grotton, says she is keen to help the pub put strategies in place to welcome back dogs.

Rachel, who wrote the iPET Network’s qualification in canine first aid and is an ambassador for the national Safe Pets and People Campaign, has contacted the pub to offer her services for free.

She is also an expert witness in court for cases involving dog bites to people. 

She said: “I can completely understand the Kingfisher pub's decision to ban dogs, as incidents like this are scary.

“But with the right training and support, they may not have to take such a reactive measure.

“Staff training goes a long way in preventing and helping avoid dog bites, but owners also have a responsibility to recognise when their dog is not happy.”

Rachel gives staff training sessions to companies around the country including recently to Brewdog, and Yappy.com.

Rachel Bean is a Qualified Veterinary Nurse (Image: Rachel Bean)

It is not yet known whether The Kingfisher will accept Rachel’s offer, but regulars are clearly keen to bring well-behaved dogs back into their local.

One took to Facebook and said: “This is like saying you're no longer serving alcohol because a drunk person assaulted a member of staff.”

The Kingfisher referred The Oldham Times to parent company Marston’s PLC, who did not reply to a request for comment.