Dogs have been banned from attending a popular festival over welfare concerns.
The organisers of The Phoenix Festival, which takes place at Abbey Grounds Park in central Cirencester, won’t allow dogs – or any other animals – on site this year.
In a statement, a spokesperson said: “We understand that this may be unpopular but we have decided not to allow any animals into the festival site this year, with the exception of registered guide or assistance dogs.
“We are sorry and this may be problematic for some but we feel that a music festival with thousands of visitors is not really the best environment for your lovable furry friends to be in.
“We really hope you understand as our volunteers already have a lot to do to keep everyone safe.”
The free event attracts around 15,000 people, with the majority supporting the decision to disallow pets after many years. Though some people have threatened to boycott it, claiming their dogs love festivals.
One person said: “No!!! Our dog loves it. Surely it’s up to the owners to keep their dogs happy. I didn’t see any distressed dogs. Who did? Why the sudden change? So so sad about this.”
Another wrote: “I attended last year with my dog Biscuit and instantly felt like a warm fuzzy blanket was wrapped around us. There was a family-friendly and dog-friendly feeling everywhere.
In contrast, someone else said: “If you are deciding not to allow animals due to safety concerns or organisational issues then that is your prerogative.
“If you are banning pets because you think the animals won’t be looked after, it’s a different matter.
“Too often people are making judgment calls on others because they think they know better and look down on people who do what they wouldn’t choose to do.”
