Torontonians are voicing their thoughts online about whether or not pets should sit on TTC seats.
The conversation was recently ignited on a Threads post where the user called out riders who let their furry friends sit on TTC seats, sparking comments and revealing a city divided on whether fur-covered cushions are the real issue, or just a symptom of a much bigger one.
“Sorry pet lovers but ppl who put their pets on a Toronto Public Transit seat need to be stopped,” the original post reads. “Dog hair is all over and not everyone likes to wear dog fur all over their clothes.”
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Currently, the TTC allows pets on board during non-rush hours, and all day on weekends and holidays, as long as they’re leashed or in a carrier. Now Toronto reached out to the TTC for comment but has yet to receive a response.
Some users who entered the chat agreed that as a courtesy pets shouldn’t be taking up seats and getting their fur on it, for sanitary reasons.
“As someone who has had dogs all their life and has taken the TTC before, I agree with you. I love my fur babies, but I choose common courtesy and respect over having my pets sit on the seats,” a user commented. “I’m not going to get my dogs fur all over somebody else’s clothes when they’re heading somewhere. It’s just not a nice thing to do. Unfortunately most people don’t think of other people.”
“You can not want dog hair on you and also not want human bodily fluids on you. Both are unwelcomed. And as a person with allergies to fur, it’s more than annoying for me. It’s a health issue,” another user chimed in.
For some, it’s a matter of practicality.
“You can’t control every pet owner on the TTC in Toronto, dream on. You can easily fix this problem for yourself by carrying a lint roller. Focus on things you can control,” a user replied.
While the topic struck a chord with some, others quickly pointed out that dog fur might be the least of the TTC’s problems.
“Public transit user here and I’m chuckling because dog hair on the seats is the least of my concerns,” one user wrote.
Another added, “Meh I honestly don’t care… ttc seats are gross regardless. There’s definitely worse on there.”
The pet debate touches on a broader issue many TTC riders have long complained about — the overall cleanliness of transit seats.
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From food spills to suspected insect infestations, fabric seats have become a common target for criticism from Torontonians. In response, the TTC began phasing out cloth seats three years ago and introducing plastic, non-fabric seats.
Earlier this month, the TTC told Now Toronto that 100 buses have been equipped with new plastic seats so far. All buses are expected to feature plastic seats, however the TTC did not confirm when this will be completed.
