FREEDOM FOR FIDO

Pet dogs are generically known as "Fido" in the Italian press and thus it is reported that the Fidos of Tuscany are about to gain their freedom in all sorts of ways, for the local laws banning them [and other pets] from restaurants, beaches, public transport and indeed almost anywhere where they cannot currently accompany their owners are to be repealed by the summer. How cultured the Fidos of Florence will soon become, once they are allowed to visit that lovely city’s art galleries! My Simi thinks all this is quite right but wants me to tell you that she wouldn’t have time herself, as there are squeaky mechanisms to be got out of squeaky toys, water lorries to be awaited and barked at and, most importantly, her mummy’s bed to be kept warm whilst the latter is out earning "bonio" money at the centesimi kennel!

Other regions of Italy are expected to follow suit in ditching the laws which separate dog and owner. I am all for taking my dog nearly everywhere but I do think there is the matter of people with allergies to be considered, especially in enclosed spaces. On the other hand, Franco Zeffirelli has proved himself my hero once again by declaring that he wouldn’t take his dog to La Scala as the sounds might cause pain to his best friend – not a word about the dog’s possible barking upsetting the audience! This being Italy, though, there will have to be all sorts of health and other certificates for the pets and I find it hard to imagine the bureaucracy working smoothly.

In this area there is no problem if you want your dog to sit with you on a café terrace and I can understand the hygiene and safety reasons for the summer beach ban . But I am just dying to take Simi to a chamber concert and we are already planning what she will wear!