Greater Manchester pub bans dogs after staff member bitten on shift

A Greater Manchester pub has divided opinions after it announced a full ban on dogs.

The Kingfisher, in Greenfield, Saddleworth, made the announcement on social media after a member of staff was allegedly bitten by a dog while on shift.

They added that while dogs will no longer be allowed inside the pub, they will still be allowed in their outdoor seating area if they’re on a lead.

Pub bosses wrote on Facebook: “Following an incident in the pub that has resulted in a member of the Team being bitten by a dog, we have made the decision to no longer allow dogs inside the pub.”

They continued: “This decision has not been made lightly, and is with a heavy heart, but we are sure you will understand that the safety and well-being of our team, and guests, is our number one priority.

“Whilst we understand that not all dogs are the same and many would never cause any harm, for the time being we are taking this action to safeguard you all.”

The post added that assistance dogs will still be welcome within the pub’s premises, while dogs in the outside area will need to remain on a lead at all times. 

The Kingfisher

However, their decision was met with backlash from some punters, who weren’t too pleased to hear the news of their dogs’ barring. 

One person commented: “Most pubs allow dogs, so I imagine this will negatively impact on your business.”

Another noted: “This is like saying you’re no longer serving alcohol because a drunk person assaulted a member of staff.”