Developer-builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a> has pushed beyond the now-standard inclusions of rooftop pools and landscaped podiums at its recently launched new Epping project, Senso.

It has laid out over 4,000 sqm of resident-only amenity in a move designed to compete directly with low-density housing on livability, not just density. The result is a development that supports genuine daily use through purposeful spaces distributed across its five-building, 479-apartment precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4396]

Two rooftop pools form the anchor of Senso. One is a 27-metre lap pool adjoining a heated spa, designed for everyday fitness rather than just summer leisure. The second sits on a lower podium, allowing different buildings to share in vertical access and reducing crowding during peak times.

It is the secondary spaces that start to distinguish Senso from other large-scale suburban projects. A rooftop cinema is integrated into a landscaped terrace, offering open-air screenings with natural ventilation and passive cooling.&nbsp;

The inclusion of a “sensory walk”, an elevated boardwalk that threads through the site, suggests a rare investment in non-commercial, non-essential amenity: space for quiet movement that doesn’t double as access or traffic circulation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4402]

The gym and wellness centre, often relegated to a small ground-floor room in many builds, takes on more substance here. Residents have access to a fully equipped gym, as well as outdoor yoga areas and meditative zones that integrate greenery and natural light.&nbsp;

The Club Lounge is similarly designed to support multiple use cases, with a private dining terrace, kitchenette, workspace, and lockable wine storage. These aren’t superficial additions; their scale and spatial allocation indicate serious intent for frequent resident use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4391]

Importantly, Senso’s amenities are embedded within a site that spans more than 10,000 sqm, allowing for better separation between spaces and reduced noise spillover, a critical but often overlooked factor in high-density developments. This spatial generosity also enables multiple alfresco kitchens and communal terraces without compromising individual privacy or usable space.

While many developments make claims about lifestyle, few back it with this level of built infrastructure. Senso’s mix of dedicated fitness, wellness, social and passive green spaces suggests a conscious response to the post-pandemic shift in housing expectations, especially among owner-occupiers.&nbsp;

DASCO is one of several leading developers who have taken out Resilience Insurance's Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing buyers with a 10-year structural and waterproofing warranty, and giving them the ultimate peace of mind.

Senso is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134954]

Staff Writer

The outdoor amenities elevating life at Senso, Epping

Following the proposal by the Minns Labor Government to rezone Parramatta Road to create up to 8,000 new homes, prominent developer Ceerose has gone to the NSW Gov to increase the density of its new mixed-use residential building in Leichhardt.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/ceerose">Ceerose</a>, founded by Edward Doueihi nearly three decades ago, has filed plans for 154 apartments above ground-floor retail at 307-315 Parramatta Road, a key corner site near Norton Street, the main high street strip in Leichhardt.

It's an upsize from the previously approved scheme of 63 apartments across a seven-storey building.

<img alt="Ceerose" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba1ae75b-5f08-43fb-b8d5-3de6d9f6ef71" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-04%20at%2010.31.39%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yA3hBBLPH4ev7MsAE0_hieXeqiFqBUb7" />

The project is being advanced through the State Significant Development (SSD) pathway, with concurrent rezoning sought to facilitate the proposal. The 10-storey development would rise over a four-level basement and deliver two retail tenancies, one a larger-format offering and the other a smaller “hole in the wall” space, addressing the Parramatta Road frontage. 21 of the apartments are dedicated as affordable housing.

According to the Urban Design Report by Architecture AND, the scheme includes a podium and tower configuration, with a fine-grain, two-storey parapet street wall that references the traditional shopfront rhythm along the corridor. “An elegant tower form is proposed, combined with a characterful two storey frontage... articulating it as two related buildings, providing consistency with the rhythm and grain of Parramatta Road,” the report notes.

The residential component is split across two slender towers set back from the street edge, a design move aimed at preserving solar access and reducing perceived bulk. This massing strategy also seeks to improve residential amenity by focusing scale toward the quieter northern interface, away from Parramatta Road’s noise and pollution.

<img alt="Ceerose" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="347f2f8f-5d36-4388-b40a-2e77380b9c19" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-04%20at%2010.31.02%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=xvyUE2ujT1lzivXTo.mHBJFF4SmfgLtz" />

Architecture AND has worked with Ceerose on previous Inner West projects, and cites a deep familiarity with the local character. Their design draws heavily on context, heritage, and sunlight access considerations, and engages with the Inner West Council’s “Our Fairer Future” strategic planning framework.

The site spans 2,712 sqm and is located near key intersections with Catherine Street, Hay Street, and Redmond Street. It adjoins a public carpark to the north and is within walking distance of Stanmore and Petersham stations. It is also flagged in state and local planning strategies, including the Parramatta Road Corridor Urban Transformation Strategy, as a suitable candidate for increased density.

Ceerose recently completed The Alex Collective on McEvoy Street in Alexandria, Abbie's Lane in Annandale, and the award-winning Munro House in Elizabeth Bay.

The Parramatta Road corridor is coming to life with the proposed rezoning which is serviced by a significant number of bus, light rail and train routes.

Deicorp is progressing with its $1.8 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kings-bay-village-five-dock-53-75-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">Kings Bay Village</a> precinct on Parramatta Road in Five Dock, as is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/toga-to-push-on-with-five-dock-mixed-use-masterplan">TOGA further down the street</a>. Those two projects alone will bring nearly 2,000 new homes to Parramatta Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Ceerose plots mixed-use Leichhardt development on Parramatta Road

North Sydney's landmark 'SBS Building' on Alfred Street is set to be demolished to make way for a new mixed-use residential tower in the booming North Sydney.

Commercial property group FiveX is behind the plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">39-storey tower</a>, the latest project to advance under the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

They are proposing 184 apartments above retail spaces, which will replace the existing 20-storey commercial building. FiveX was set up more than five decades ago by Joshua and Marko Berger. It is currently led by Joshua's son Lesli.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower at 275 Alfred Street, North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2efa0980-53fa-4cca-9f9e-9c3c845d4746" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29%20%281%29_0.png?VersionId=y_YyPMq3NQLfYRs84pP4os9UgWiMLp75" />

According to the Architectural Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a>, the slender tower form has been deliberately designed to respect the site's transitional setting at the southern gateway to the North Sydney CBD, where high-rise towers give way to lower-scale residential precincts.

"The slender tower form and articulated podium establish a respectful relationship with nearby heritage and low rise buildings, including the Whaling Road Heritage Conservation Area,” the architecture firm noted, adding that the tower “completes a missing link in the urban fabric” while enhancing the Alfred Street streetscape.

The proposed building will include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with 15 percent of the gross residential floor area allocated as affordable housing. There is an agreement already in place that those apartments will be managed by Evolve Housing.

The project aligns with broader state housing objectives, including the National Housing Accord target of delivering 1.2 million new homes by 2029. The Scoping Report filed with the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) suggests the site "presents no impediments to rapid delivery,” with construction able to commence within 12 months of receiving consent.

North Sydney has been one of the most popular suburbs in Sydney for new and off the plan apartment development, but hasn't had the supply to keep up with demand, until recently.

AURA by Aqualand was, for a long time, the only off the plan apartment building on the market. That completed last year, and has sold the majority of its 386 luxury apartments. Recently ALAND launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-173-179-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> on the same street, selling over $100 million within just a few hours of its launch, while developer CASA also launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-mclaren-north-sydney-45-mclaren-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The McLaren</a>&nbsp;in the same precinct.

First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower in booming North Sydney

Kokoda Property Group has announced the Sydney-based Versatile Construction as the builder for its landmark $1.5 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a> precinct.

Construction of the 17,612 sqm site is scheduled to commence in December 2025 and is expected to be delivered in stages from 2028. Once complete, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a> will comprise 212 residences across four architecturally distinct buildings, alongside Brisbane’s first Kimpton Hotel, extensive retail, hospitality, and wellness amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139896 project_image_fid=295098]

Kokoda Property Group Founder and Managing Director, Mark Stevens, said appointing Versatile Construction marks a significant milestone for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a>.

“Partnering with Versatile Construction gives us confidence in delivering a precinct that sets a new benchmark for luxury living, curated experiences and vibrant riverfront activation," Stevens said.

"Together, we will bring the vision for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a> to life, creating a destination that residents and visitors will enjoy for generations."

Throughout the construction phase, more than 2,000 jobs will be created, supporting hundreds of local contractors and suppliers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139896 project_image_fid=352274]

Marco Fahd, Chairman &amp; CEO at Versatile Group, said the company is looking forward to&nbsp;expanding their footprint in the state, taking on their inaugural project in Brisbane.

"We are proud of the unwavering commitment our team of experts have to quality and certainty in delivery and are excited to work with Kokoda to bring their vision for this unique project to life," Fahd says.

Sales reached $285 million on the launch of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a>, with sales momentum continuing to "exceed all expectations."

Stevens says the overwhelming response from buyers validated the group’s vision for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/teneriffe-banks-17-27-skyring-terrace-teneriffe-qld-4005">Teneriffe Banks</a>.

“The demand for a luxury product in this enclave has been extraordinary, we’ve never seen anything like it before. It reinforces everything we’re doing around quality, design, and creating genuine lifestyle precincts. Buyers are recognising the enduring value of Brisbane’s riverfront and are responding to the opportunity to live within a world-class destination that celebrates both place and lifestyle.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139896]

Kokoda appoints builder for $1.5 billion Teneriffe Banks waterfront precinct

Castle Hill’s booming development market is set for another boost, with builder-developer Buildex proposing a new mid-rise apartment building near Castle Towers.

Buildex has submitted plans to The Hills Shire Council for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/197-old-northern-road-castle-hill-nsw-2154">nine-storey building comprising 57 apartments</a> on Old Northern Road. The company acquired two adjoining sites earlier this year, totalling more than 2,683 sqm.

Texco Design has prepared the scheme, which includes five one-bed plus study apartments, 37 two-bedrooms, and 15 three-bedrooms.

Castle Hill has become a hotspot for developers in recent years, undergoing significant transformation driven by the opening of the Hills Showground Precinct to development and the introduction of two metro stations servicing the suburb.

Developers including Deicorp and Kassis Homes have already completed projects, and are progressing future developments, while Meriton, Arada, and Ellipse are currently delivering new projects in the rapidly evolving area.

First look: Buildex plans 57 apartments near Castle Towers

Dogs

New South Wales has finally ended blanket bans on pets in apartments, following in the footsteps of Queensland and the ACT.

Victoria made some progress last year, although not to the same extent with reforms preventing landlords from unreasonably restricting pets. The Northern Territory is following suit.

South Australia has pet agreements, required for any lease, allowing pets with ground rules in place for property maintenance and management.

Western Australia has a $260 pet bond, to be taken when a pet is named on the lease for fumigation at vacancy, Tasmania has a similar system albeit without the bond.

The NSW&rsquo;s reforms are related to strata title, as until these changes, most strata titles included a blanket pet ban. Historically NSW has had the most complex regulations surrounding pets and strata.&nbsp;

Now instead of strata laws, it&rsquo;s owners corporations and landlords. The NSW government has said they can still refuse to keep an animal if there is &ldquo;repeated damage of the common property, menacing behaviour, persistent noise and odour.&rdquo;

Owners corporations will also have the right to set conditions about how pets are kept, such as requiring supervision on common property or while entering and exiting an entrance or lift.

The government says these conditions must be &ldquo;reasonable&rdquo;, but there are currently NO guidelines.

Some actions such as restricting the size of a home&#39;s pet, not uncommon in the past, were found in a report prepared as part of the NSW legislation review to be unreasonable. However, this is not specified in the law that was passed.

Close to 2.5 million Australians are living in apartments and a third of Australian households rent their homes. So with the number of renter&rsquo;s rising in the wake of property prices continuing to outpace wage growth, there is a need for consistent, equitable and pet-supportive housing rental policies across the country.

With such inconsistencies across Australia, and changes only finally occurring in the past 2-3 years, there is a lot of uncertainty for renters and pets often become the victim, as more than 60% of households include a pet.

Pets are part of the family, and this he been demonstrated over and over, especially during lockdown with mental health studies and surveys demonstrating the benefits of an animal on mental health

Dogs are the best examples of this, shown to increase daily exercise across all age groups.

There are even benefits for landlords, with US research suggesting that households with pets stayed in rental properties longer than those that did not have pets. This brings longer-term, more secure rent to property owners.&nbsp;

In spite of this as recently as 2018/19 pet bans have been sweeping and widespread in many rental properties, apartment buildings in particular are the biggest offender.&nbsp;

Emma Power of WSU during a 2016 survey found,&rdquo; that pet ownership can trigger feelings of housing insecurity for Sydney&rsquo;s renter households.&rdquo;

Roughly half of those surveyed who declared their pets when they applied for properties had been given pet ownership as the reason their application was rejected.

Mrs Powers said, these figures are likely to represent only a small proportion of those who have been rejected for pet ownership as reasons for rejection are rarely provided.

Most doggedly concerned landlords are simply barking up the wrong tree with many studies showing that the majority of landlords who worried about pets had zero first hand experience with such problems. Even when damage occurred it was significantly less than the average deposit, or pet-bond.

jordan_55689

Barking up the right tree: A guide to renting with pets in Australia

Our furry friends are finally starting to get a say in whether they can stay in a strata apartment or not.

New laws have been introduced to make it easier than ever to have a&nbsp;pet&nbsp;in your apartment.

But beyond that, there are developments that welcome pets&nbsp;with open arms and even facilitate pet living and lifestyles.

Here are seven&nbsp;stunning Sydney&nbsp;apartments which welcome your dogs:

1. Beyond, Hurstville 
Address: 93 Forest Road, Hurstville NSW 2220 
Two-bedroom apartments from $850,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6798]

Beyond Hurstville is the latest project from the design-minded developer Fridcorp.

The $700 million project at 93 Forest Road, Hurstville in Sydney&#39;s south-west has 563 apartments across four towers and is set to be one of the best mixed-use developments in the suburb.

The development features a raised podium complete with a gym, yoga studio, sauna, tai chi meditation deck, community garden and a communal sports court.

Residents will be able to reserve spaces using the Beyond community mobile phone application, as well as access a virtual concierge, book a dog walking service or a personal training session.

2. Bloom Arncliffe 
Address: 213 Princes Highway, Arncliffe NSW 2205 
Two-bedroom apartments from $710,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201]

The recently completed Bloom Arncliffe, delivered by developer Wingate, offers one, two and three bedroom ready-to-move-in apartments, perfect for the eager first-time owner, the smart investor and the dynamic urban-dweller.

Dispersed over seven state-of-the-art buildings designed by Stephen Bower Architects, ranging from standard apartments to penthouses, every Bloom residence holds sweeping city views.

Exercise outside at the extremely walkable Gardiner Park or New Arncliffe Park, perfect for dogs.

3.&nbsp;Allium, Pagewood 
Address: 128 Bunnerong Road, Pagewood NSW 2035 
Two-bedroom apartments from $815,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7822]

Part of the master-planned Pagewood Green community, Allium offers 487 grand residences over four towers.

Developed by Meriton, the homes offer a unique opportunity to enjoy Sydney&rsquo;s eastern suburbs in a park-like community.

The residences are designed by SJB and feature fifth-floor podium gardens, an outdoor cinema and sensational vistas across the city, golf course and surrounding parklands.

4. Park Sydney, Erskineville 
Address: 149-163 Mitchell Road, Erskineville NSW 2043 
Three-bedroom apartments from $1,711,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5811]

One of the most significant new residential development Sydney-wide, Park Sydney offers considered design and communal amenities to families looking for a community feel and established neighbourhood.

Boasting an unbeatable location, the development is located just four-kilometres from the Sydney CBD and an easy walk to Erskineville Station. Close to top universities, major employment hubs and elite schools, such as Newington College, Park Sydney meets the needs of the whole family.

The masterplanned community includes 7,400 sqm of parkland and play areas with BBQ facilities, amphitheatres, walkways and cycleways.

5. Orchid, Eastgardens 
Address: 9 Oscar Place, Eastgardens NSW 2036 
Two-bedroom apartments from $835,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29389]

Orchid, the final stage of Meriton&rsquo;s masterplanned Pagewood Green development in Eastgardens, offers a &ldquo;residential oasis&rdquo; within Sydney&rsquo;s East, according to the project marketing.

Offering residents an ideal natural setting to recharge, the development is located nearby surrounding parklands, sporting fields and recreation facilities, including Centennial Park, Lakes Golf Course and the urban bushland at Moore Park.

Plenty of places to take the dog for a stroll, or to fetch a ball.

6. Reflections, Rhodes 
Address:44 Shoreline Drive, Rhodes NSW 2138 
Two bedroom residences from $840,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25478]

Meriton&rsquo;s final waterfront development at the Rhodes Peninsula is Reflections which has never to be built out views.

Designed by Meriton&#39;s in-house team, the low-density collection of 94 apartments feature enclosed balconies with floor-to-ceiling windows to take advantage of the surrounding views.

Just over 10 minutes&rsquo; drive from Macquarie Park, the project enjoys a real community feel with a 300 sqm private park, 25-metre heated pool, sauna and gym among its offerings.

7. 180 George Street, Parramatta 
Address: 180 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 
Two-bedroom apartments from $715,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8590]

Meriton&rsquo;s world-class 180 George development brings together beautifully designed residences with the ideal lifestyle amenities to suit everyone.

Designed by Woods Bagot, the 767-apartment development features communal open space, including rooftop gardens, a sundrenched podium terrace and a barbeque area.

The 1,200 sqm podium gardens complement the adjoining 58-level hotel suites tower.

Hailed as Parramatta&rsquo;s tallest residential tower, take your dog for a walk by the water in its shade.

Although many apartment building used to not allow animals, there are developments that welcome pets, dogs in particular with open arms and even facilitate pet living and lifestyles

Top seven Sydney apartments perfect for dogs

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION 
Feeling lonely? A dog may help. Our research out today confirms what many dog owners already know: dogs are great companions that can help you to feel less lonely.
Cuddles and slobbery kisses, meeting other dog owners in the park and a general lift in mood all likely help.
But our study, published today in <a href="https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-019-7770-5" target="_blank">BMC Public Health</a>, found dogs didn’t affect psychological distress, the type seen in depression and anxiety.
Why are we studying this?
<a href="https://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/report/pets-in-australia-a-national-survey-of-pets-and-people/" target="_blank">Almost two in five Australian households own a dog</a>. And although most dog owners will assure you, in no uncertain terms, their dog is a source of sheer happiness, scientific evidence is lacking.
Most previous studies have compared the mental well-being of dog owners to non-owners at a single point in time. The problem with these studies is they cannot tell if dogs actually make us happier, less lonely or less stressed. They also cannot tell us if dog owners are simply in a more positive state of mind in the first place.
So, in this study, we measured mental well-being at three points in time: before owning a dog, three months after owning a dog and eight months after owning a dog.
What did we do?
<a href="https://sydney.edu.au/charles-perkins-centre/our-research/current-research/physical-activity-exercise-and-energy-expenditure/dog-ownership-and-human-health" target="_blank">Our study</a>, known as the PAWS trial, involved 71 Sydney adults who were separated into three groups:
<ul>
<li>people who bought a dog within one month of starting the study</li>
<li>people who were interested in getting a dog in the near future but agreed not to get one during the study, and</li>
<li>people who had no interest in getting a dog.</li>
</ul>
People filled out surveys to measure their mood, loneliness and symptoms of psychological distress at the three different time-points. We then compared the mental well-being of the groups at the beginning of the study, to the mid-point and to the end-point.
Here’s what we found
New dog owners felt less lonely after they got a dog compared to the other two groups. The effect happened quite quickly, within three months of acquiring a dog. There was no further decrease in loneliness between three months and eight months.
We also found some evidence that dog owners had fewer negative emotions, such as nervousness or distress, within three months of getting a new dog but this finding was not as clear cut.
We found that symptoms of depression and anxiety were unchanged after acquiring a dog. Maybe the dog owners in our study already had low levels of psychological distress before they got a dog, so dog ownership didn’t lower these levels any further.
What does it all mean?
There are lots of possible reasons dogs can help to lessen feelings of loneliness. We know having a quick cuddle with a dog <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08927936.2015.1070008" target="_blank">boosts people’s mood in the short-term</a>. Maybe daily dog cuddles can also boost owners’ mood in the long-term which could help to lower feelings of loneliness.
Dog owners may also meet new people through their dog as <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1348/000712600161673" target="_blank">people are more likely to talk strangers if they are accompanied by a dog</a>. In our study, dog owners also said they had met new people in their neighbourhood because of their dog.
So far, there have only been two similar studies to look at mental well-being in new dog owners, one of which was conducted almost 30 years ago.
Of these studies, one found dog owners had <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1774745" target="_blank">fewer symptoms of psychiatric disorders</a> after they acquired a dog. The other study found <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.2752/089279307X245473" target="_blank">no difference in loneliness</a> after people brought a new dog home.
Dogs may also improve our <a href="https://ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/cir.0b013e31829201e1" target="_blank">physical health</a>, by reducing blood pressure, improving cardiovascular health and increasing the amount of physical activity their owners perform. But, as is the case with mental well-being, the scientific evidence is still limited.
So, what happens next?
One of the things our study cannot determine is how dogs affect men’s mental well-being. By chance, all the new dog owners in our study were women. So, we don’t know whether dogs affect men’s mental well-being in a different way to women’s.
Our next step is to look at mental well-being in a much bigger group of new dog owners to confirm these findings. A bigger study could also provide more insight into the relationship between dog ownership and mental illness, such as depression and anxiety.
If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/125495/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
Lauren Powell, PhD candidate, University of Sydney.
Emmanuel Stamatakis, Professor of Physical Activity, Lifestyle, and Population Health, University of Sydney.
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/dogs-really-can-chase-away-loneliness-125495" target="_blank">original article</a>.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Dogs really can chase away loneliness

<html><body>
<h1>Riding in cars with dogs: millions of trips a week tell us transport policy needs to change</h1>
Having a pet dog turns out to be a highly car-dependent affair. Author provided <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jennifer-kent-13822" target="_blank">Jennifer Kent</a>, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841" target="_blank">University of Sydney</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/corinne-mulley-106" target="_blank">Corinne Mulley</a>, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841" target="_blank">University of Sydney</a>
Dog owners depend very heavily on their cars to transport and care for their pets. Our recently published <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965856417302161">study</a> estimates that dog owners make about 2.4 million dog-related trips a week in Sydney. We also found pet owners overwhelmingly want to be able to travel on public transport with their pets. So why are they still excluded?
<hr>
Further reading: <a href="https://theconversation.com/we-need-a-better-understanding-of-how-we-manage-dogs-to-help-them-become-better-urban-citizens-64749" target="_blank">We need a better understanding of how we manage dogs to help them become better urban citizens</a>
<hr>
Our study, involving more than 1,250 Sydney dog owners, looked at popular activities owners do with their dogs and how often these require a trip by car. Typical activities include:
<ul>
<li>walking</li>
<li>visiting the park or other recreational areas</li>
<li>dog training</li>
<li>going to cafés, bars or shops</li>
<li>visiting family, friends or the vet.</li>
</ul>
On average, we found people walk their dog twice or more a week. While this confirms <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091743507003775" target="_blank">existing research</a>, we found that one in four dog walks actually began with a drive in a car. Of the more than 75% of dog owners who go to a recreational area twice or more a week, 45% get there by car. And of the two-thirds of people who go to the dog park three times a week, more than half travel by car.
This demonstrates a surprisingly high reliance on private cars for dog ownership. The table below clearly shows this.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/194753/original/file-20171115-19841-1c1ibfb.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
Activities undertaken by dog owners and the number of dog-related car trips each week.
The survey also found that, on average, people visit a vet three times a year. They use a car for 86% of those trips.
However, 14% said lack of transport had prevented them from taking their dog to a vet. People who did not own a car were more likely to fall into this category.
<h2>So, why does this matter?</h2>
Our results indicate that enjoying and caring for a dog in Australian cities – which has <a href="https://theconversation.com/our-pets-strengthen-neighbourhood-ties-79755" target="_blank">proven health and social benefits</a> – is a relatively car-dependent affair. And car dependency is something urban <a href="https://theconversation.com/stuck-in-traffic-we-need-a-smarter-approach-to-congestion-than-building-more-roads-84774" target="_blank">planners want us to leave behind</a> for many reasons, including sustainability, health and <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/healthy-liveable-cities-44685%20in%20our%20cities" target="_blank">liveability</a>.
If we are trying to reduce car use, understanding activities that lead to car dependence is important. We are particularly interested in the unintentional, often negative, consequences for individuals who, by choice or circumstance, do not have access to a car. A compromised ability to enjoy and care for a dog is one such consequence.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/197467/original/file-20171203-5392-1lre7jv.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/197467/original/file-20171203-5392-1lre7jv.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
All European cities allow dogs on public transport but most cities in the US and Australia do not. <a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/chihuahua-arms-travels-public-transport-615671681?irgwc=1&amp;utm_medium=Affiliate&amp;utm_campaign=TinEye&amp;utm_source=77643&amp;utm_term=" target="_blank">TIF Fotos/Shutterstock</a>
A policy solution would be to allow dogs on public transport in Australian cities. Unsurprisingly, our survey of dog owners found an overwhelming 95% support this.
More than half indicated they would do more activities with their hound if this were allowed. And 20% said they would even consider getting by without one of their cars if they could take their dog on public transport.
<hr>
Further reading: <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-there-a-place-for-dogs-in-public-space-or-must-they-make-do-with-dog-parks-56147" target="_blank">Is there a place for dogs in public space, or must they make do with ‘dog parks’?</a>
<hr>
<h2>What are the rules in other countries?</h2>
With these findings in mind, we investigated public transport policies on pets in 30 cities across Europe, the United States and Australia. We found all European cities allowed dogs on public transport. Most cities in the US and <a href="https://transportnsw.info/travel-info/using-public-transport/travelling-with-animals-pets">Australia</a> did not.
The policies allowing dogs vary. Some apply limits on where on the train, tram or bus a dog may travel, on travel during peak hours, and on the size of dog. In cities such as Paris, dogs must pass a “basket test” for riding in a carrier or small bag.
Most cities charge a fare for dogs at a concession or child price. Zurich has gone a step further by offering an <a href="https://www.sbb.ch/en/travelcards-and-tickets/tickets-for-switzerland/dogs" target="_blank">annual travel card</a> for dogs.
<hr>
Further reading: <a href="https://theconversation.com/johnny-depps-dogs-show-evolving-ideas-of-animal-citizenship-41968" target="_blank">Johnny Depp’s dogs show evolving ideas of animal ‘citizenship’</a>
<hr>
It is interesting that in cultures where private cars are dominant – such as Australia and the US – dogs are restricted from riding on public transport. In Europe, where car ownership and use are less common and public transport use is more the norm, dogs are welcome on trains and buses.
This perhaps says something about how we see public transport in Australia: it is for predictable and “clean” trips, such as the journey to work.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/87094/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">In reality, our lives are made up of messy trips, and to reduce car dependence we need to plan for this mess. This might include measures such as changes to timetables, making the interior of trains and buses more suitable for people carrying groceries, or allowing people to use the train to take their dog on an outing or to the vet. If public transport is for travel for all citizens and dogs are an important part of so many people’s lives, why should dogs be excluded from public transport?
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jennifer-kent-13822" target="_blank">Jennifer Kent</a>, Research Fellow, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841" target="_blank">University of Sydney</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/corinne-mulley-106" target="_blank">Corinne Mulley</a>, Professor; Chair in Public Transport, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841" target="_blank">University of Sydney</a>
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/riding-in-cars-with-dogs-millions-of-trips-a-week-tell-us-transport-policy-needs-to-change-87094" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Riding in cars with dogs: Public transport policy needs to change

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As Ray White continues its journey to be the leader in customer excellence, they have not forgotten one of their core customers - family pets - with the launch of a brand new specialist program featuring qualified agents selling homes to our furry friends.
It comes after a first for the industry saw Ray White agent Evan Williams sell what has been dubbed a ‘poochy palace’ in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hggp8qeCn9k" target="_blank">Sydney’s north for $1.25 million</a>. 
The new offering will work in conjunction with <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1T40RXW1oy0Sm-He6sqCqMU5PLeuGKDMxL89_Sx6o-HQ/viewform" target="_blank">Ray White Concierge’s pet care and transport service</a> - where Ray White’s human customers will be entitled to exclusive benefits to ensure their pets are comfortable and well looked after during their move.
The sale of the poochy palace came about when the new owners of the property decided they were not utilising the space because they had no pets of their own. 
They are taking advantage of a spike in land value in the north - where a car space was recently sold for $150,000.
Ray White agent Evan Williams said the demand has been high.
“There has been an incredible amount of interest in the property. It’s a market that has never before been given a second thought, but it was an obvious decision for Ray White to move into this space and take care of our four legged friends.”
“The new owners are thrilled to finally get their paws on the property ladder.”
Evan says that for those who missed out this time around, there will be plenty of stock on the market.
Sounds like an April Fools stunt!
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