Thursday, March 20, 2008

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beaches, public transport and indeed almost anywhere where they cannot currently accompany their owners are to be repealed by the summer.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!

12 comments:

CherryPie said...

I am looking forward to the photgraph of the event ;-) xx

Welshcakes Limoncello said...

Watch this space, cherrypie! x

Leslie: said...

Oh my goodness, that WILL be a special event! I know in France people take their dogs EVERYWHERE, including indoor restaurants, shops, museums et al. Much as I love dogs, I think outside would be the best place for them (just in case).

Maria said...

I agree I am looking forward to the photo's! Sounds interesting! I wouldn't mind but boy that would never work here in nyc. lol I wouldn't mind trying! All the best always! M

jmb said...

Much as I love dogs I do not agree with this policy. I don't think non dog lovers should have to put up with other people's dogs in public places. Especially since as we all know not all dog owners are responsible with their pets and not all dogs are well trained. Imagine if everyone had a dog and they were all sniffing each other and barking and even fighting. Ugh.

James Higham said...

[cough] only in Italy I suspect.

Rowena said...

And just in the nick of time! Soon there will be two canines running around our home...it would cost too much to leave both of them at the doggie pensione!

Sally said...

............If the Lady Simi is Need of a Companion and escort at the Play, Opera or Ballet, Mr Bowser Wishes to Offer his Services. Beach and Shopping Excursions also Undertaken.

Nunyaa said...

Try this site to give you some ideas if you get stuck,
http://princesspetwear.com/ .
As Cherie said, shall await photos :-)

jams o donnell said...

I trust Simi will be suitably attired. |It would never do for her wear a shell suit!

Gledwood said...

Laws separating dog from owner? Being scrapped? I should think so bloody too!

Have a cheery egg weekend!!

;->...

Welshcakes Limoncello said...

Hi, Leslie. I love taking Simi almost everywhere but I agree you have to consider others! Ciao, M. Have the best Easter you can and Simi and I are thinking of you . x
Jmb, I totally agree and so does Simi - ill-mannered owners and dogs do not help her cause! Ciao, James. "Only in Italy", certainly.
Hi, Rowena. I understand completely. Ciao, Sally. Simi would be honoured to be escorted by handsome Mr Bowser. Buona Pasqua to you both. xx Ciao, Nunyaa. We will try it and thank you! Hi, jams. We are thinking of a little black number with sequins... Ciao, Gleds, e buona Pasqua a te! xx

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