A popular Wannanup bar and bistro has refused to apologise after being slammed on social media for asking customers to buy shares towards a greyhound puppy to race.
The Cut Tavern Bar and Bistro, which opened in July, posted a comment on social media telling customers they would be purchasing a six-week-old fawn dog.
The post said the puppy was from a winning breed and asked customers to purchase shares.
“We are selling 60 shares at $200 a share,” the post said.
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“This pays for the pup and all costs to get it to the race track.”
The post received more than 700 comments – many criticising the idea and slamming the greyhound racing industry.
One commenter said it was a “stupid irresponsible idea”.
“Stick to hospitality and don’t get involved in animal cruelty,” another posted.
But all 60 shares were sold within 24 hours, according to The Cut Tavern Bar and Bistro manager Kelly Brown.
A spokesperson replying from the business’s Facebook page said people who chose to not attend the establishment because they raced greyhounds were “naive and won’t be missed”.
Ten hours after the original post, the pub said they would donate $1 from every drink sold on Friday night to the RSPCA.
“...If you're really serious about animals welfare you will donate as well lets make it happen,” the post said.
Ms Brown and her partner Mark Simpson, who run the restaurant, have owned and trained greyhounds for the past 15 years.
“We fully appreciate people have different opinions and likes but some of the comments and personal messages we received has been atrocious,” she said.
“I get there are issues in the industry but there are issues in every industry.
“You can’t crucify someone for having a different opinion to you – that’s bullying.”
Carla Hildebrandt
Journalist at the Mandurah Mail
Journalist at the Mandurah Mail
