SeaLink has acknowledged passenger confusion surrounding its dog muzzle policy and is taking steps to address inconsistencies in enforcement, ensuring a safer and more consistent experience for passengers and their pets.
The policy, which mandates that all dogs must wear muzzles while onboard and in the ferry terminal, applies to all SeaLink passenger ferry services, including those to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands and North Stradbroke Island.
However, enforcement of the rule had been inconsistent, leading to confusion about whether the policy was being upheld across all services.
In response to these concerns, SeaLink Sales and Marketing Manager Stevie Mills has assured passengers that the muzzle rule is a firm policy, and steps are being taken to remind all staff of this fact.
“We acknowledge that enforcement has varied, which has contributed to passenger confusion,” Ms Mills said.
“Our new SMBI Operations Manager, Simon Mannering, is actively working to address the inconsistencies by implementing clearer education for both passengers and crew.
“Additionally, all crew have been reminded that this is a firm policy that must be applied consistently across all services.”
To help address these issues, SeaLink is introducing several key measures, including updated signage at terminals and additional efforts to make muzzles more accessible.
SeaLink is also exploring the possibility of installing a vending machine at the top of the Redland Bay ramp to make muzzles more readily available to passengers who may have forgotten to bring their own.
The decision to enforce the muzzle rule stems from SeaLink’s commitment to safety, as the company operates under the guiding principle that “The Safe Way is the Only Way”.
The muzzle requirement is meant to prevent potential incidents such as bites or conflicts between animals, particularly in the enclosed spaces aboard ferries where people and pets are close.
Ms Mills reiterated that the muzzle policy was non-negotiable and applied to all ferry services.
“This is a firm rule, not subject to individual discretion, and applies to all passenger ferry routes, including Southern Moreton Bay Islands and North Stradbroke Island,” she said.
