This is a tricky sensitive subject. TRM pet policy is not specific as it depends more on the friendly nature of the pets. In the interest of other guests we sometimes have to ban aggressive or noisy dogs. Most inmates understand but we regret we have had to refuse some due to their dogs unfriendly or unnacceptable behaviour.

The key issue is that the comfort of TRM’s other guests must always come first.

(Rosemary & Wayne Searle on the Koura Street swingbridge, guided by Boof in 2008)

As we have always had our own pet dogs we hope we understand the close connection anglers have with their pets. Many guests who stay regularly at TRM look forward to meeting up with our dogs and spoil them rotten. They add to their holiday enjoyment.

(Caroline & Denis from New Caledonia with TRM’s dogs in 2013)

In the brief video below are Richard and Stuart, who coincidentally arrive today for another trout fishing trip on the Tongariro River. They are wonderful regular guests, accompanied by their guide dogs, Molly and Choco. As we had this old video we are using it to illustrate SWMBO’s strict policy of not allowing dogs on beds or furniture. As these pets are sitting on their laps, they complied. How could we refuse?

But sometimes dogs are too boisterous to be allowed to jump all over beds, so somewhere we have to draw the line. If you have any doubts about the behaviour of your dog, then they must be boarded elsewhere in a proper kennel.

There is also the danger that TRM layout is open to a busy main road – SH1 . The one-acre property has three street frontages, which are not secure or suitable to fence them in.

(India George in 2016 was infatuated with Pumpkin)

TRM has allocated specific units for “friendly” pets. i.e. Unit 8 carport has a portable dog fence donated by Nick Padfield – thank you, for whenever he brings his two well-behaved boisterous Labs. The dogs can then live undercover in any weather and remain in control without annoying other guests.

(Regular inmates, Kay & Neil with their savage team of pig dogs?)

But if there are any aggressive signs, then we must insist that dogs are securely tied up. They will not be welcome back again. We cannot risk having dogs roaming the property and upsetting other guests who may not enjoy being pestered by dogs. OK?

(John & Rosanna from USA – returning from their river walk)

Over the last twenty or so years our motel dogs created their own legend with inmates. The photos below tell the story.