A friend in another state was going to a small, local renaissance faire and wanted to bring her dog. Knowing my love for faire, she asked if I knew if dogs were generally acceptable. However, I have only been to Bristol in WI and I know they are not allowed there, so I really didn't have an answer for her other than to contact the faire. Since joining these forums and seeing so many wonderful photos from faires across the country, I have noticed there are dogs allowed at some faires. I have dogs of my own, Siberian Huskies. They are well used to strangeness and crowds because they have competed in shows and obedience trials. One is very wolfy looking in her coloration and I thought it would be fun to put together a northern barbarian costume and bring my "wolfy" dog to a faire some day.
Which now has me wondering, does anyone know off hand of any faires in the midwest that do allow patron's dogs on the grounds? I'd like to start visiting more faires next year and it would be much easier if we were able to bring the dogs with us.
As a side note: Does anyone know of a schedule for faires around the country that is listed by date? I tried the upcoming faires link here but it just returned a blank page.
Thank you kindly!
Alexandra
I'd check with any you consider and find out their rules in advance.
Minnesota Renaissance Festival allows dogs. I believe you have to check them in, provide rabies info, and they take the dogs picture.
Ferret
Quote from: Ferret on September 25, 2011, 10:33:47 PM
I'd check with any you consider and find out their rules in advance.
Minnesota Renaissance Festival allows dogs. I believe you have to check them in, provide rabies info, and they take the dogs picture.
Ferret
http://www.renaissancefest.com/MRF/petpage.html Complete rundown.
Ferret
It would be best to check. Though, I think it would be interesting, and yet annoying if people brought their dogs. It all depends, however. Dogs that are used to crowds, noise, and the like could be a joy to have at faire. Though, there are some people who would also probably bring their unruly ones.
Yup, I completely understand the concerns about having dogs in that kind of situation. I'm sure not only is there a liability issue in regards to the other patrons, but also the faire staff and resident animals as well.
Minnesota is a good starting point, thanks for the advice! Its not too terrible of a drive for us, coming from N. IL.
Oh nice, looking at their info, they even have a special pet fest themed weekend event. And its an opportunity to see Twig in person. Yes, I can see MN will be in our future, hopefully next year!
The Greater St Louis Renaissance Faire is very dog friendly. From their Website:
Pets:
We are a pet friendly faire. All pets must be registered at the front gate prior to entry into our faire. Please bring bring proof of current vaccinations. All dogs must be leashed at all times. There is water available, so bring a travel dish. Wentzville City Ordinance requires Pitbulls and Pitbull Mixes to be muzzled and on a lead no longer than 4 feet.
Huzzah! Another one and also close by! Thank you!
We attended Michigan Pirate Festival in August, in Grand Haven. We took our two small dogs, bc we had no one to leave them with for one thing, for another, this is their first summer, and we try hard to expose them to lots of different situations so they are not growing up to be the type of dog who is scared of anything different...faire is great for that, they see other animals, people in weird (to them) dress, noises, etc, and its a great way to socialize. Also, I dressed my dogs up for the pet costume contest, and it was great to see so many people who got a kick out of it, esp my pirate yorkie:) brought joy to many little kids faces.
I didnt take them to MIRF, although I see on their website that I could have, just bc that was "our" day...no kids, and no dogs! lol
We too are considering taking our dog to an occasional faire (Cane Corso Italiano ).
Some down here in the southern areas allow them anytime, others have a "Pet Day." Always best to check thoroughly. And any I have read up on will require papers and many will require a form signed assuring them they are not aggressive.
Do keep in mind it is a very long, very hot day for them. So be sure to bring a bowl along and extra amounts of water or be prepared to purchase (often pricy ) water. I would advise caution with costuming, make sure it also does not add to the heat.
They should be extremely socialized beforehand, as nearly everyone will want to see and pet the doggie. Sometimes even the most socialized will tire of it.
And be ever mindful and always watchful of anyone who has a phobia. Which happens anywhere. We were in Petsmart of all places and walked by a man who brought his wife along that had a phobia of large dogs. He absolutely loved him and invited us over so he could love on him, but she placed her shopping cart between us and nearly turned white. Of course I immediately removed him to a safe distance for her. But couldn't help thinking why in the world she would go into a place that encourages all sizes of pets... ???
I had considered taking a dog (Akita/Chow) to MNRF but though he is great with most people and has been well socialized, if they are frightend of him, he senses it and then all could go downhill real fast.
I guess it all depends on the dog but think a long time about it.
Have you checked the Directorie of Renaissance Faires?
http://www.faires.com/
The listings sections give general info like location, dates, 'year' of the faire (if any), pets allowed and weapons restrictions, points of contact for performers and vendors, etc. A link to the faire's website is included if you need more info.
They are generally well maintained, but it depends on the owner of the faire to keep his page updated. It's handy if I've never been to a particular faire before, or if I'm looking for other festivals in a specific region or area.
The only drawback I have noticed is that the newer, smaller faires usually aren't on the site.
I have two Scotties that adore faire (and the attention they get there) but it's very hard to keep them from helping themselves to what ever snacks they find on the ground.
There is a very popular chocolate shoppe at DMRF featuring delicious frozen cheesecake on a stick, bananas and strawberries dipped in chocolate. These frequently end up on the ground and as you know, chocolate and dogs do not mix.
Last year our male scarfed a plastic toothpick, and since our little female is allergic to any number of things, we have decided not to take them anymore. It's safer for them and less expensive (vet bills) for us.
Quote from: Lord Dragon on September 26, 2011, 12:59:08 PM
Of course I immediately removed him to a safe distance for her. But couldn't help thinking why in the world she would go into a place that encourages all sizes of pets... ???
Because people who own fish, snakes, gerbils, cats, frogs, ferrets, etc. have to shop there, too! ;)
Good point. But another thing about it was, they were smack dab in the middle of the dog section.
Secretly, I get the feeling I need to blame hubby. One of those erroneous species thought patterns of "maybe if I can eeeease my significant other into it or around it, I can get one of XXXXXX too, cuz I want one. And if that was the case we are not amused, especially since he called us over and then acted fairly unconcerned at her distress. :-\
Didn't mean to sound elitist or anything. All stores are for everyone. Was just a weird encounter and having a phobia or two myself have no wish to distress others with theirs. Like I said on another thread, the woman who decided without asking first that she needed a pic with the two of us and her...and Mr. SNAKE!!!!! :o :o :o
If she had dropped that hand with the snake wrapped around it on MY shoulder instead of Lady Griffons......I am certain I would have totally and completely FLIPPED out.
Having felt that firsthand, I will definitely go out of my way NOT to expose others to their phobias that closely, anyway. Ten feet seems to be a fair comfort range for most. Snakes, 50 feet for me, though. ;D
The Boy ScoutMaster of our church's Troop is afraid of snakes. But let me set the scene. He is about 6'5", 250lb of pure muscle, booming voice, a rifle master, hunter, avid outdoorsman. We were on a camping trip at Blanchard Springs, AR, walking down the creek. This snake comes off of one bank to make his way to the other side. The ScoutMaster totally flips! I know Jesus walked on water but I didn't know the ScoutMaster could do it, too! :o Then he starts throwing rocks at the snake. Funniest thing I have EVER seen in my life! ;D
My grandparents had a dog I grew up with. I knew her and trusted her. There are very few dogs I am comfortable with but it mainly has to do with the owners and how they raised the dogs. When people assume I like to be jumped on by an overexcited, slobbering dog, or that the dog growling and snapping at me is "just being playful" then I have a REAL problem.
I think the point is to be conscientious of other people and how they may not "like" the same things you do. This goes with pets, religion, food, movies, anything you can think of. It's all about respect. The world would be a lot better off if we ALL could remember that (goes for me, too!).
Sorry if we highjacked your thread, Soulstice! ;)
My personal feeling is that unless you know for sure your dog really enjoys this kind of outing, or you work at the Faire, or you have permission to bring dogs to the site for the purpose of raising awareness of a rescue operation (ie the Greyhounds at CORF) or are training the dog for "helping" purposes, it's much easier on everyone for the dog to be left at home, especially in hot season faires. Many dogs don't really like pressing crowd situations with sudden loud noises...a few handle it with aplomb.
Please remember if you do bring your dog and it's hot, they only perspire from their tongues, noses and pads and all of their vital organs are spread out at nearly ground level where the heat rises. They are much more susceptible to heat prostration, note that when watching sheepherding events, the dogs have a tub they can dunk their whole bodies into after performing their job. Most dogs would rather you take them to the dog park for fun with you and other dogs than a Faire situation. If you're going to MN, the Heart & Sole/Willing Soles booth has a doggie water bowl available.
CORF does not allow dogs except for the greyhounds and every now and then some bull mastiffs and service dogs. I have seen some people who have their dogs in backpacks to sneak them in. I have heard of the gate crew calling the police because some genius desided to bring fido along and it was a hot day.
I am in the please let them at home group. There are a ton of people and kids, noises and large animals. And it gets hot so let them hang out at home and sleep in the cool house.
Thanks for the support, Adriana! I know there are many people who think that because they love their dogs and they love Faire they should naturally go together. I know of dogs that have died from going to Faire from heat stroke. Love your pet and leave it at home.
I know that there a days I would rather be sitting at home in the cool then cooking at faire.
Only thing worse than bringing your dog to the faire in the heat is leaving the dog in the car while you go to faire.
Hopefully, none of us here are stupid enough to do that.
I've already called the police more than once in the Walmart parking lot when it's hot outside & I find a dog in a car with the windows partially rolled down. The owners are ticked, but the pet is still alive.
I agree with Lady Nicolette. I think people bringing their pets to faire is more for the human's enjoyment rather than the pet's. I have golden retrievers and a golden retriever/yellow lab mix, and while each of my dogs loves people, other dogs, and children, the last thing we want to do is bring them to faire. They wouldn't have fun like we do, and I wouldn't want to spend the time worrying about them.
For a rescue group to demonstrate, yes, because it brings an awareness to all the needy animals looking for homes, but to just go to faire along with their human, I am not a fan of that.
Yes, Renee, I shudder to think of that (the dog in the parked car scenario)! I don't even take Beau in the car on errands when it's hot, I worry that if something completely unexpected happened to me he would be in a very vulnerable place.
I never thought of that!
I guess it's good that I don't take my dogs anywhere in the car with the intention of leaving them alone in there, period. Even for a short time. They leave copious nose prints on every window, and if they find a food wrapper, it's over. Hard enough when I have to take them to the vet or take them to Petsmart to try on a new harness.
They love rides, mind you, but they are terriers first and they do not control their canine impulses well in strange surroundings. When I travel with them they get to ride in crates, that way I can be sure they are firmly on a leash before they can get out of the car, and I can actually see through the windows after the first 30 minutes into the ride ^_^
The only dogs that should be allowed at any faire, are service dogs.
Say 20 people, decided to bring their 'four legged' family member, on the very same day, it would become a 'doggie park', within a faire setting.
I believe Sterling has a 'no dog' policy, except for service dogs.
I for one, do not want to watch for 'doggie land mines' or wonder if where I am about to sit, was 'sprayed on'. You know there would be a 'spray off'! Lol!
I understand all the concerns, believe me, I have the same on most occasions when I walk out the door. It saddens me to say that many dog owners that I meet shouldn't own a dog. My husband says I have become a "dog snob" even since getting involved with our Siberians. But I have to be when I have precious puppies to find homes for (maybe every 4-5 years)! Our dogs are well socialized and have been going to shows and competitions since they were pups. They are obedience trained (one is off lead trained, no small feat for a born to run Siberian!) and well used to crowds, loud noises, and strange equipment. I remember being in the show ring once with one of our girls at a local fairgrounds and a large industrial fan plummeted from the ceiling and came down with a deafening crash. Of course, it was exactly at the moment that the judge was examining my girl! She handled it well though, startled at the big noise but recovered quickly and went right back to working the ring like the show-off she is. This same dog has a natural affinity for therapy work with special needs kids, she just senses there is a difference there and her normal exhuberant nature becomes very calm and inviting. They have been raised around kids and cats as well. We also have them tested under the Canine Good Citizen program thru the AKC. The tests all center around how well they behave and react when out in public and with strangers. We usually do this test before we start formal obedience training, and they still pass with flying colors, just based on the training they receive at home to be good pet companions. I had a very real fear of dogs as a child after being bitten by a shepherd and I've worked really hard with my dogs to make sure they are a pleasure to have around. I also struggle with social anxiety and the dogs have helped immensely in getting past that. Without the experiences I have had training and showing them, I doubt I would have the confidence to even walk out my front door in faire garb, much less talk to people at faire! LOL.
I was talking with the hubby last night more about this idea and he seemed very interested. We have not had any kind of vacation in 10 years due to financial constraints, job schedules, and the cost of boarding multiple dogs (we've had up to 9 on the property at once over that time). And we have brand new camping equipment that has never even left the boxes. We're considering a trip up to the MN Faire in September next year, when temperatures have the best chance of being tolerable for humans and dogs alike. We would likely attend faire on Saturday as a test run. If it went well, we would return on Sunday, if not, we would find a state park for some hiking with the dogs instead.
Dogs in cars is a common sense thing, something that is become a rare commodity in today's world. Personally, I do it all the time.. I take multiple dogs to the training center so I can work one for an hour at show class and then the other for off lead obedience for the following hour. Or I take multiple dogs to a show site and they will also stay in the car when not in the ring if weather permits (its safer than having them crated in the grooming area where any wacko can get their hands on them (happened last year that another competitor poisoned someone's dog after a win). We don't do this in the summer, of course. But some states are now trying to pass a law that it is illegal to leave a dog unattended in a car, and I really don't think this is necessary. People should use their brains. If they don't have any, they shouldn't be responsible for another life in the first place.
Soulstice, Kansas City Renaissance Festival is pretty darn big, almost as big as MN, and they do allow dogs. They photograph your pooch at the gate, check the vaccinations, and you are allowed to take your pooch around the festival. And it is a great experience for your pooch, almost a feast of the senes. All the foods to smell, all the other dogs butts for them to smell, it is great. I used to take my miniature schnauzer, all 10 pounds of him, and he would get in behind my leg and bark at the 100 pound dogs, it was great. The best part is almost everyone who brings their pooch knows how to manage their canine friends, so there aren't dogs just running around acting dumb.
Thanks for the info Kcdcchef. KCRF is on my to do list too! I checked the websites of most of the larger midwest faires and it looks like, Minnesota, St. Louis, Michigan, and Kansas City all allow dogs with pretty much the same policy of registration, photo, fee at the gate.
and it really is fun for the dogs, it really is. and again, most everyone who brings their dog are very expereicend with taking their dogs to events. not a lot of the hippy redneck white trash dog owner that lets their dogs run around crazy. too busy with nascar i guess!!!!
I'm sure my dogs would love it, they are pretty big hams. And since they would be portraying wolves, they wouldn't even need any costuming. I'll just have to prepare myself for the inevitable, "are those real wolves?" questions we'll no doubt get throughout the day. But we get those in every day life anyway, so I'm used to it. lol
I'm sorry I come from an era when hippies and rednecks were two very distinct opposites. And having lived in the south for many years, they still are. "Hippy" Rednecks just don't have the money for a haircut, they are nothing like the real hippies were. And never will be no matter how much they would aspire to it. Sorry, just a pet peeve of mine. Back to topic, some dogs really do enjoy Faire, but most don't and shouldn't be subjected to it on the whim of the person in charge of their lives.
Quote from: Lady Nicolette on September 27, 2011, 08:34:29 PM
I'm sorry I come from an era when hippies and rednecks were two very distinct opposites. And having lived in the south for many years, they still are. "Hippy" Rednecks just don't have the money for a haircut, they are nothing like the real hippies were. And never will be no matter how much they would aspire to it. Sorry, just a pet peeve of mine. Back to topic, some dogs really do enjoy Faire, but most don't and shouldn't be subjected to it on the whim of the person in charge of their lives.
as a long haired dude, I get mistook for a hippy or whatever you prefer from time to time. my favorite is when i go to the mall after work and get profiled as trouble or something, and get followed by mall security even though i make 2-3x what they do!
I worked for years for one of the richest men in America and he was profiled as a potential
shoplifter in a prominent grocery store in the extremely upscale town he lived in. They conspicuously carried his family's household name products in the store ever after their error in judgement. You can't judge a book by it's cover. Long hair doesn't make a hippie, nor does being a Southerner make a redneck.
Again back to topic...Some dogs thrive in a Faire setting, but most really don't. If you have one that does, great! I love dogs! But I also love them enough to know which ones need to be kept at home and which ones are happy in the big wide world of Faire.
*edited today for typo*
i lived in the south for 10 years, i know.
I am a dog lover. I have a Malamute (Denali) and an Akita (Abbe). Denali would love the attention at faire, but I wouldn't be so sure of Abbe. Nevertheless, I would never even consider taking either to faire. Their size would scare some people. As for me, I have no fear of larger animals, but do not like small dogs...at ALL! Unless they are part of an act, are service animals, or are there to be adopted as at CoRF, I don't think dogs have a place at faire.
...as for the comments about hippies, my wife and I both are, have been since the 60s, and proud of it. We also live in the South, and trust me: hippies and rednecks (which is actually a misnomer, but as is intended by the previous posts) are polar opposites... peace!
Thanks for the agreement, Merlin...For those of us who were there it's more clear how the twain really don't meet, despite the fact of the popular misnomer. I so wish we had a "like" button here!
The dogs at Faire subject has come up before and usually does create a bit of disagreement. Luckily
it's always resulted in a pretty good discussion on both sides of the issue...Dog people are usually pretty darned diplomatic!
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on September 28, 2011, 07:58:22 AM
I am a dog lover. I have a Malamute (Denali) and an Akita (Abbe). Denali would love the attention at faire, but I wouldn't be so sure of Abbe. Nevertheless, I would never even consider taking either to faire. Their size would scare some people. As for me, I have no fear of larger animals, but do not like small dogs...at ALL! Unless they are part of an act, are service animals, or are there to be adopted as at CoRF, I don't think dogs have a place at faire.
...as for the comments about hippies, my wife and I both are, have been since the 60s, and proud of it. We also live in the South, and trust me: hippies and rednecks (which is actually a misnomer, but as is intended by the previous posts) are polar opposites... peace!
merlin you're more of a hybrid of hippie and scotch afficianado.
Quote from: kcdcchef on September 28, 2011, 11:25:01 AM
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on September 28, 2011, 07:58:22 AM
I am a dog lover. I have a Malamute (Denali) and an Akita (Abbe). Denali would love the attention at faire, but I wouldn't be so sure of Abbe. Nevertheless, I would never even consider taking either to faire. Their size would scare some people. As for me, I have no fear of larger animals, but do not like small dogs...at ALL! Unless they are part of an act, are service animals, or are there to be adopted as at CoRF, I don't think dogs have a place at faire.
...as for the comments about hippies, my wife and I both are, have been since the 60s, and proud of it. We also live in the South, and trust me: hippies and rednecks (which is actually a misnomer, but as is intended by the previous posts) are polar opposites... peace!
merlin you're more of a hybrid of hippie and scotch afficianado.
*like button!*
Jack Daniel's is Tennessean rather than Scotch ;), and down in Lynchburg, blue-tick hounds are what you might see at a fair[e].
Just to be fair, I asked my dogs what they would think about going to faire with us. They both said, "Woof!" so I'll have to leave the controversy to someone else. :P
allright so back to the dogs..................do you guys not get the group i am talking about with the dogs? they generally come to festival just cause they are so happy to have some place to take their dogs in public, then let them run around and act stupid while everyone else watches their dog. perhaps hippy was the wrong word to throw in there, i am down with being a hippy and all. but these hicks generally arent even at faire to be at faire, dont even give a damn about faire. just treating it like an $18 dog park. and they generally come in the nascar looking winnebago with the stars and bars in the window!!!!
merlin -- your liver must be the size of texas by now!
Liking NASCAR doesn't make you an idiot. They come in all shapes, sizes, forms, and whereabouts! ;)
I personally know the biggest idiot in the world.... and he has 3 bachelors degrees and 2 masters. ::) Go figure!
I admit I don't know this group of people, LOL.
Our local faire does not allow dogs at all. But as an owner of a breed that IS listed as #4 by the CDC on the dangerous breeds list (which is hooey by the way), it is a HUGE issue to me if people are treating faire as an open run dog park. In fact, I don't even take my dogs to the dog park because of other people's dogs and attitudes that MINE are dangerous and their little ankle biter with the aggressive attitude is an angel. I run into that all the time at the dog shows even... "You can't trust those huskies!" - said by a women who wasn't watching her wiener dog on its retractable leash when it lunged at the neck of my dog in its 4 foot leash as we walked by to get to our ring. Unbelievable!
Hopefully, we'll be ok at faire. I've got a pretty accurate "kick reflex" when it comes to unleashed dogs coming to challenge my babies. Note, I said challenge, not visit and its only used when a sternly shouted, "No! Out!" doesn't deter them long enough for their owners to get a clue. LOL. We have short show leads that keep our dogs close and they don't eat things off the ground. We've had to train hard for that one because you would be surprised how many forgotten and dropped treats can litter a show ring at the end of the day and ruin a perfect go-round for the judge when the dog drops its head and sprouts roots because of a piece of liver treat in your path. LOL.
As long as the owner is responsible and observant, I don't mind dogs at faire. There are many people who bring their dogs that shouldn't though. The small, aggressive dog that barks at everything larger than it should stay at home. The large dog who is scared of loud noises and crowds should stay at home. The owners who don't clean up after their dogs should as well.
Also, I serve beer, please for the love of faire, don't set your small dog on my counter when you are ordering. Also, don't let your giant, drooley dog put their paws and slobbery face on my counter. It's gross and violates health code. At my pub, if your dog is well behaved, we will give them a biscuit...if they are not, no cookie for them! (we always ask permission from the owner before handing out treats)
I'm thinking about making a trip to a dog-friendly faire with my dog sometime soon. He loves everyone and is pretty small (15 pounds), so I think he'd have a good time. Not to mention the boyfriend and I want to do a road trip to an out of state faire soon and I would hate to leave him (the dog) behind.
I know MRF is almost over, but do they allow dogs every weekend or is it just their pet weekend? That seems to be the closest one and our best bet.
MNRF is very dog friendly and I've never encountered issues, as a playtron, of having to watch out for doggie bombs or misbehaving pups. (I'm sure they're out there but I, personally, haven't noticed it at Faire.) As far as I have seen the only dogs off leash are part of the sheep herding show. Though I would love to show off my dog (German Shorthair Pointer) I would never bring him to Fest just because I don't know how he would react. Better safe than sorry for us and I'll continue to leave him at home. I love seeing all of the different breeds out there- big and small, cute and ugly. The dogs are a great distraction for my girls at any given time. Most shop keepers at MNRF are dog friendly with water dishes available, I've noticed. Dogs are always welcome, not just during Pet Fest.
TO ALL DOG LOVERS:
I would like to repeat a story from way back.. When my wife and I were performing in TNRF many years ago, I think around 1992 or so. The faire allowed dogs then. We were greeting people at the front gate and a man came in and looked around and saw all of the people with dogs and announced that he would come back on Sunday with his Rotwieller(this is not a bashing the breed thread, it could have been any dog). I asked, then pleaded, then begged him not to bring the dog. His response "Oh he is gentle as a lamb and would never hurt an yone. BTW my wife and I love dogs, but will never bring one to faire. Any way on Sunday he brings the dog. It did appear mild mannered. At some point within the next couple of hours(I don't know the exact circumstances as I was not on the spot) the dog bit a little girl on the cheek. The dogs fault, the little girls fault, nobodys fault no one knows. It was not a huge gouge, but it broke the skin and the dog warden had to be called. End result the dog had to be quarenteened for 30 days at owners expense. As the man left for the dayI hated to to be snide, but I could not resist, I said "now do you understand why I asked you not to bring the dog?". The most well behaved dog in the world can have a bad fur day, and sometimes it just does not take much. So I will again ask, plead, and beg, leave your animals at home. The know from nothing about rennfaires. All they see is either humans or other animals in their space and in some cases they will protect that space and you from what they perceive as danger. And if you are from way out of town it would be most unpleasent if you had to leave a member of your family in a strange place for 30 days and then had to go back to get it, or worse yet had to be told your dog has to be put down because it is a vicous animal.
well to play devils advocate, i will say in all the years i have been to dog allowing faires, i have yet to see an incident of any kind and further see more large horse sized dogs at the faires then any place else i ever go. it amazes me to see these beasts, i mean, what does it cost to feed a dog like that WOW!!! but i digress. i think dogs make the faire that much more enjoyable, and i dont have a dog. what i do notice is they almost become a side show, people dress their dogs in robin hood costumes, people are always stopping to look at/pet the dogs. its funny, actually.
(Preparing for the slings and arrows) I agree with Blakduke that dogs do not belong at Faire. I have never seen an incident but it only takes once. My personal experience, some dogs don't like me. It may be that I walk differently than normal (well, it is normal for me). I even had a police dog threaten to lunge at me for no reason before his handler got good control. So for the pleasure and well being of everyone, leave the pets at home unless you really want to feed the dragon in the back. Or maybe the falcon with really small pets.
You are absolutely right, Keeper...and BlakDuke. In the excitement of the faire, the noise, the cannons, a small child—not knowing any better—running up to a dog and startles it, then gets his/her face half ripped off. Little kids just don't know any better, and a lot of adults don't either. But despite in inherent risk involved, some people are terrified of dogs. If nothing else, respect for other humans should dissuade people from bringing dogs to faire.
Speaking of dogs, mine just stole a bag of beeswax candles off the shelf... (she wanted the bag)... She is restless tonight because one of the cats beat up on her.
Anyway, all that aside, as much as I hate leaving her when I go to Faire, I don't think she'd do well in that environment. She likes people, but is not crazy about loud noises. (Rescue dog - God knows what happened to her before I got her.) She is a foxhound, and as much fun as I have with her, hounds are inclined to follow their noses no matter how much training work I do with her! So I think it would make my enjoyment of Faire less because I would have difficulty managing my food, my glass of ale (or cider), my garb, and my dog!
I'm glad to know that some Faires are dog-friendly though.
Morganne
well i am a FORMER dog owner who took their dog to faire, and think it's about being responsible. as much as some people let their dogs act up, more people let their children act up. so to say we shouldnt have dogs at faire because a kid could get bit is sad. i mean, at faire, there is open flames, swords, horses, iron works, bows and arrows, are we going to outlaw everything that children could get hurt with?
I, for one, have never seen a sword lunge at anyone when startled. You are missing the point we are making, kc.
I'm going to step out of this discussion, although I've found it informative and thank everyone for their replies. It always helps to be able to plan accordingly when we are well informed and consider all the possibilities.
Talking about taking a vacation next year with only two dogs has been a needed distraction for me lately, because our third dog, who was our oldest and our first Siberian Husky has been living on borrowed time for the last few months. It brought some comfort trying to looking towards the future. Only a month left until she would have been 14 years old and we had to have her euthanized yesterday morning when she could hardly walk more than a few steps and refused to eat after what we think was a mild stroke last weekend. The loss has hit our household hard, even though we have been trying to prepare ourselves for it all year.
Soulstice:
I feel your pain. At least you had the dog for 14 years. I know what you are going thru, having gone thru that a year ago.
The BLAKDUKE
My Husky has a place of honour in my backyard. I would visit her daily for a long time after we had her put down several years ago. I held her in my arms as she went to sleep for the last time. I, too, feel your pain. It hurts like hell.
I completely understand as well, having lost my Westie of many years this past winter. :'(
Im sorry :'( I lost one of my dogs this summer , even though she annoyed the hell out of me I still miss her.
Thank you all.
So sorry to hear this Soulstice. I'm sure your dog had a wonderful life with you!
You can have some solace knowing this, even though you will miss her.
I'm not very comfortable around dogs, especially large ones. Once as a kid, we had just finished a softball game and were running across the field to the picnic area. I was out in front of the herd of kids and felt a terrible pain in my side. A large black lab blind sided me taking a chunk outta my side and sent me tumbling to the ground. As it continued to attack, I pedaled my feet as fast as I could to keep him off of me. By this time, the owners had come up and said "He won't hurt you.......... he's a good dog". Right! I spent the rest of the afternoon in the emergency room getting my wound tended to and shots. Some people forget dogs are animals that can and do act on instinct..."Oh look, a herd of yummy children". Animals, leashed or not, do not belong in the boisterous, crowded lanes of a Renfaire for the sake of all involved, including the animals.
N.B. ...I would not ban service dogs as they are trained to a much higher standard then family pooches.
There's usaually too much going on, too much noise that most dogs can handle. Service dogs are of course desenitized and trained for such things: they are invaluable to those that depend on them. TRF has a pooch paddock service I hear is good. Requires reservations and proof of shots.
There is(or was) a service available once called houndstooth inn. They would setup outside the gates of a rennfaire and you could board your dog for the day. Rates were more than reasonable. They had a big covered tent and portable cages for you furball. They provided water, and would even walk the dogs. I hope they are still in business and hopefully did well enough to expand and/or do many other faires.
The BLAKDUKE
My experience at the MNRF is that it is a popular place for people to bring their dogs. I think too popular. I've never run into a problem with a dog that was there with a rennie (cast or playtron), but in my humble opinion at least half of the dogs there with patrons shouldn't be there at all. Last year I was attacked by two large dogs and one small dog. In all three cases the dogs were showing signs of distress and aggravation but the owners were doing nothing about it. And in all three cases I moved between the dogs and another person to keep that other person from being attacked (the other people hadn't noticed the danger from the dogs). Thankfully the worst of it was a torn skirt. This year I was there with a friend and her 3yo child. After getting permission from the owner, the 3yo was petting a dog when the dog suddenly tried to attack a passing by dog. The 3yo was in the line of fire and I had to quickly pick her up to keep her safe. The owner then goes on to tell me how this will be his last weekend with the dog because they are giving it back to the rescue group because it attacks other dogs, including their own family dog. Really? So you bring this aggressive dog to a public place with HUNDREDS of other dogs and then let small children pet it? Freakin' moron.
It really is a know your dog thing. And don't be a complete moron. Unfortunately, that is too much to ask of most people.
We're a dog family and our dogs are well socialized in public settings. My suggestion would be this - if your dog will react in anyway whatsoever to any of the varied experiences it may encounter, don't bring it. That's a pretty broad and sweeping statement, but it's probably the safest bet and the most enjoyable for everyone all around.
Your experience is why dogs should not be allowed at faire. The problem isn't with the good dogs, and we all know that there are some really good, patient dogs that can handle the faire...the problem is with the bad owners who have no clue about their own pets. Since there is no way to segregate the intelligent from the stupid owners, they must all bear the restriction.
You also have to bear in mind that there are a LOT of people who are afraid of dogs. I wouldn't want to pay good money to go to faire only to be tripped up and yapped at by a bunch of dogs. The faire is not for dogs. If you want to make it for dogs, then dogs need to pay full price for entry PLUS costs of insurance AND be limited to a particular section of the faire. Human patrons should come first, not last.
I'm the opposite of BubbleWright, although I completely understand his point of view. I personally do not like small dogs around me. If it's not at least 50-60 pounds, keep it away from me.
I hate leaving my dogs at home when I travel, but I care for them far too much to take them to a faire.
I have never owned a service animal or an entertainer animal which are specifically acclimatized to all types of strange humans and strangely behaving humans at that.
Currently I have two mutts, yard dogs, whose main job it is to bark ferociously to discourage other animals from crossing the fence line, including strange humans. Secondary job is to act as pillow cushions for grandchildren. A stranger would need to think twice or three times or ten before entering uninvited.
Merlin, you might like the bigger, maybe 60 pounds of solid dog. The smaller, maybe 40 pounds, Catahoula/shepherd mix, has been known to drop a grown man simply by body blocking at knee level and she just wanted a petting.
Would I bring either to Faire? ABSOLUTELY NOT.
Quote from: PollyPoPo on November 07, 2011, 08:18:17 AM...
Merlin, you might like the bigger, maybe 60 pounds of solid dog. The smaller, maybe 40 pounds, Catahoula/shepherd mix, has been known to drop a grown man simply by body blocking at knee level and she just wanted a petting....
hehe... The day I brought my Akita home, she and my Malamute were chasing each other through the house, playing. They knocked me over the sofa. The "little" one is over 100 pounds... Now when they chase each other, I just get out of the way.
Quote from: BLAKDUKE on November 06, 2011, 01:08:12 AM
There is(or was) a service available once called houndstooth inn. They would setup outside the gates of a rennfaire and you could board your dog for the day. Rates were more than reasonable. They had a big covered tent and portable cages for you furball. They provided water, and would even walk the dogs. I hope they are still in business and hopefully did well enough to expand and/or do many other faires.
The BLAKDUKE
I just love this idea! It would be just the thing for the local humane society to set up to raise money.
I'm surprised that most events (and not just renfairs) don't have a 'pet rest' area like this. Not every dog (or cat, or ferret) can deal with the constant barrage of new, loud or smelly experiences that happen when a lot of people get together in one place.
Bad pet owners are the root of so many issues that are impacting those of us that try to be responsible with our animals, I don't even want to get started about it.
There is a certificate program through AKC called the Canine Good Citizen. You take your dog through a series of tests such as meeting strangers, meeting people with dogs, being groomed by strangers, being left with a stranger, being around milling crowds, testing reactions to sudden loud noises (think garbage can lids) and strange equipment (wheelchairs, crutches, umbrellas). I forget what else is in there but it covers quite a bit. I love this program because to pass it, a dog owners needs to have put some time and energy into raising a well adjusted and trained animal. Our older dogs were all certified as Canine Good Citizens before I had ever set foot in any sort of dog training class some 6 years ago.
I've been lax in letting our next generation skate by without achieving a CGC. And since the loss of our oldest Siberian, the remaining two girls have been having some difficulties adjusting. So plans to take them with us to Faire next year are on hold. They need to settle into the new pack structure, and we need to get back to the training center now that some normalcy has returned to the household. Its been three years since our last pups, so we are also planning a litter for Spring 2012. No going far from home with little devils running about!
I will console myself with more frequent trips to Bristol next season! LOL
I've seen a posting for something called the Hound's Rest Inn at TRF. I don't know if its owned by TexRenFest or if its a private service.
<-------------------- This dog pictured accompanying me at NCRF in 2008 earned his CGC title this past summer at the tender age of 9 years old, he is now 10. He is my first rescue... left at some horse stables in a crate with a note @ 6 months of age. I also show Italian Greyhounds in AKC conformation events and have 2 finished champions... one of which has enjoyed Great Lakes M. F. with me in the summer of 2009.
The dogs who are used to showing, going and doing, being in large crowds with lots of dogs and people are pretty used to it. I start them out young, as pups and it's just part of their life. When you have a dog that has had relatively little interaction with other people/animals it's whole life and has some years on it... not a good combination. Imagine you've lived in a cave for 2-3 years and then somebody takes you to Disney... sensory overload!
If you intend to do social events with your pup, take it out while it's young... i.e. 4-6 months. Many local petsmarts and kennel clubs offer reasonable rates for puppy socializing classes. Invest in it... I flunked out of my first one, my then husband finished that puppy socialization class with our Dalmation. I've obviously improved since then.
Please though, if you are going to take your pup somewhere like Faire and he starts panting and pulling at the lead. Something is not right... take your pup to a kennel and board it for the day or take it home. If you need help finding a local Kennel Club to help you better train your dog please message me. I will help you find one. ;D
On the radio this morning the DJ told of his most recent dog encounter. He was out walking his two dogs, on leash. There was a loose dog in a yard, the owner with it. He decided to turn around and not pass the yard (to prevent an encounter) but the dogs spotted each other. The loose dog came his way. The owner told the dog to stay, it left. The owner told the dog to not cross the street, it crossed the street. Etc.... It became obvious to the DJ that the dogs did not like each other. He tried to pull them away but it was too late. The leashes became tangled around his feet and the dogs pulled on the leashes causing him to fall down on his back. Now the dogs were fighting right in his face! He didn't exactly finish the story (i.e. what did the other owner do since it was her dog not on leash; probably couldn't being a DJ and all) but he did say that he and the dogs were ok. He used this event to emphasize the importance of keeping a dog on leash and that owners should not be in denial about their dog's behavior. No matter how well behaved a dog may appear they are still an animal and react to other dogs, people, and situations in ways we may not be prepared for.
As noted by Ron White, "you can't fix stupid".
No matter how well behaved I believe my dog to be, they are always on leash in public. The exceptions are in the dog park or doggie day care.
I even keep them on leash in the car.
Reason # 1, I don't want someone to accuse my dog of doing something and using the city leash laws and pound laws to take my baby away from me.
We're having the same problem at our house, Dinobabe. My neighbor across the street will not put his dogs on leash, and if we are out with one or both of ours, one of his comes charging us.
We finally had enough of it. We contacted animal services, and they are going to send him a warning. They also told us that if the guy's dog attacked again, to turn ours (an Akita, and a Malamute) loose on it. I'd rather hurt the guy than the dog, if you know what I mean.
Our dogs are never off-leash, unless penned.
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on November 10, 2011, 12:17:44 PM
I'd rather hurt the guy than the dog, if you know what I mean.
I know how you feel! ::)
Bad dogs are like bad kids... a direct result of parenting (or lack there of).
I would say no to dogs at faires, unless they are service dogs or like the Greyhound Rescue at CoRF. My DH & son have allergies & being outdoors is hard enough. If dogs were added to the mix they'd be miserable & possibly unable to attend.
Also, while I am not afraid of dogs, I don't love them. I also get nervous around them unless they are service dogs. Having dogs at our local faire would make what is normally a fun experience into a slightly stressful one.
i say let's bring cats to faire.
Funny response, but not so funny in reality. MNRF does a raffle every year to raise money for the local cat rescue for all of the feral cats that show up during Faire. Some cats who are still on site after Faire seem to be tame as well, but there are no apparent owners. Our booth there found a permanent home for a resident kitty that adopted willin while he was there, but not all are so lucky.
MNRF does allow cats as well. This one guy has brought his out in a stroller for the past 15+ years.
Lady Nicolette: I got my kitty from site the week after closing a few years ago. He seemed very confused by the lack of food and lovin's since fest was over. He is now a spoiled house cat. It took quite a while to break him of his habit of chewing open plastic bags to find food.
Thanks for taking another good creature in, Sitara!
Adopt your pets. We need to put the critter mills out of business. I have 2 dogs, 2 cats, and 1 fish. They are all adopted. End of PSA.
Quote from: Lady Nicolette on November 22, 2011, 11:36:27 AM
Funny response, but not so funny in reality. MNRF does a raffle every year to raise money for the local cat rescue for all of the feral cats that show up during Faire. Some cats who are still on site after Faire seem to be tame as well, but there are no apparent owners. Our booth there found a permanent home for a resident kitty that adopted willin while he was there, but not all are so lucky.
I assume the cat rescue folks trap the kitties, give them vet attention, fix and chip them for new homes?
I ask this because I have heard of well meaning but misguided folks (my sister is among these) feeding feral cats, thus enabling them to continue to breed in the wild and making the problem worse. My sister feels like it would be 'snitching them out' to alert the ASPCA.
It is a hard life out there for animals that were meant to be pets, and the feral cats can spread disease to house cats that spend time outdoors. The humane society here is pretty good at catching ferals, but they need to know where the populations are at.
I know there are some locals who go out and do put out food over the winter months for the ones who didn't get caught, but they try to capture whoever they can and get them into feral rescue or homes if they are ready for that. Obviously, everyone spaying and neutering both cats and dogs, adopting or rescuing of existing animals and education of the public to do this is the real answer.
I have 2 dogs and neither belong at faire. IMHO
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on November 22, 2011, 11:40:47 PM
Adopt your pets. We need to put the critter mills out of business. I have 2 dogs, 2 cats, and 1 fish. They are all adopted. End of PSA.
my babies are adopted. albeit from a petsmart, but their adoptable kitties are from shelters to keep them from gettting killed, so we rescued two awesome kitties from being unloved, executed, and discarded. and love our two fluffy dummies!
and how the fu*& can you adopt a fish?
It is eazy to adopt a fish. It is like "Hey Merlin want this gold fish?"
Quote from: kcdcchef on November 23, 2011, 11:34:24 AM
and how the fu*& can you adopt a fish?
LMAO
I was thinking the same thing!!
Quote from: Lady Nicolette on November 23, 2011, 10:22:04 AM
I know there are some locals who go out and do put out food over the winter months for the ones who didn't get caught, but they try to capture whoever they can and get them into feral rescue or homes if they are ready for that. Obviously, everyone spaying and neutering both cats and dogs, adopting or rescuing of existing animals and education of the public to do this is the real answer.
Amen to that. When I wanted a pure bred Scottie I adopted through a rescue. He is healthy but my little female needs lots of TLC, and she's a little doll. When they go to the rainbow bridge, I will adopt the same way.
I haven't bought from a pet store in eons; not that there are any left in this area that sell puppies and kittens anymore; that trade has thankfully all but dried up here in Omaha. The single remaining kennel gets as much negative press and attention as the local Women's center.
Quote from: Dinobabe on November 23, 2011, 12:17:48 PM
Quote from: kcdcchef on November 23, 2011, 11:34:24 AM
and how the fu*& can you adopt a fish?
LMAO
I was thinking the same thing!!
Quote from: angusmacinnes on November 23, 2011, 11:42:49 AM
It is eazy to adopt a fish. It is like "Hey Merlin want this gold fish?"
Angus has it pretty close. Most folks tend to flush unwanted fish down the toilet. Someone I knew wanted to rid themselves of their last remaining tropical. I offered to adopt it.
by fileting it and making a maki roll?
Quote from: kcdcchef on November 23, 2011, 03:12:23 PM
by fileting it and making a maki roll?
No! But I trained him to get the paper for me when it's raining really hard...
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on November 23, 2011, 04:55:03 PM
No! But I trained him to get the paper for me when it's raining really hard...
Yer gonna kill me!!! ;D ;D ;D