/** * Deprecated Functions of Astra Theme. * * @package Astra * @link https://wpastra.com/ * @since Astra 1.0.23 */ if ( ! defined( 'ABSPATH' ) ) { exit; } /** * Deprecating footer_menu_static_css function. * * Footer menu specific static CSS function. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated footer_menu_static_css() Use astra_footer_menu_static_css() * @see astra_footer_menu_static_css() * * @return string Parsed CSS */ function footer_menu_static_css() { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_footer_menu_static_css()' ); return astra_footer_menu_static_css(); } /** * Deprecating is_support_footer_widget_right_margin function. * * Backward managing function based on flag - 'support-footer-widget-right-margin' which fixes right margin issue in builder widgets. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated is_support_footer_widget_right_margin() Use astra_support_footer_widget_right_margin() * @see astra_support_footer_widget_right_margin() * * @return bool true|false */ function is_support_footer_widget_right_margin() { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_support_footer_widget_right_margin()' ); return astra_support_footer_widget_right_margin(); } /** * Deprecating prepare_button_defaults function. * * Default configurations for builder button components. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated prepare_button_defaults() Use astra_prepare_button_defaults() * @param array $defaults Button default configs. * @param string $index builder button component index. * @see astra_prepare_button_defaults() * * @return array */ function prepare_button_defaults( $defaults, $index ) { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_prepare_button_defaults()' ); return astra_prepare_button_defaults( $defaults, absint( $index ) ); } /** * Deprecating prepare_html_defaults function. * * Default configurations for builder HTML components. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated prepare_html_defaults() Use astra_prepare_html_defaults() * @param array $defaults HTML default configs. * @param string $index builder HTML component index. * @see astra_prepare_html_defaults() * * @return array */ function prepare_html_defaults( $defaults, $index ) { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_prepare_html_defaults()' ); return astra_prepare_html_defaults( $defaults, absint( $index ) ); } /** * Deprecating prepare_social_icon_defaults function. * * Default configurations for builder Social Icon components. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated prepare_social_icon_defaults() Use astra_prepare_social_icon_defaults() * @param array $defaults Social Icon default configs. * @param string $index builder Social Icon component index. * @see astra_prepare_social_icon_defaults() * * @return array */ function prepare_social_icon_defaults( $defaults, $index ) { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_prepare_social_icon_defaults()' ); return astra_prepare_social_icon_defaults( $defaults, absint( $index ) ); } /** * Deprecating prepare_widget_defaults function. * * Default configurations for builder Widget components. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated prepare_widget_defaults() Use astra_prepare_widget_defaults() * @param array $defaults Widget default configs. * @param string $index builder Widget component index. * @see astra_prepare_widget_defaults() * * @return array */ function prepare_widget_defaults( $defaults, $index ) { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_prepare_widget_defaults()' ); return astra_prepare_widget_defaults( $defaults, absint( $index ) ); } /** * Deprecating prepare_menu_defaults function. * * Default configurations for builder Menu components. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated prepare_menu_defaults() Use astra_prepare_menu_defaults() * @param array $defaults Menu default configs. * @param string $index builder Menu component index. * @see astra_prepare_menu_defaults() * * @return array */ function prepare_menu_defaults( $defaults, $index ) { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_prepare_menu_defaults()' ); return astra_prepare_menu_defaults( $defaults, absint( $index ) ); } /** * Deprecating prepare_divider_defaults function. * * Default configurations for builder Divider components. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated prepare_divider_defaults() Use astra_prepare_divider_defaults() * @param array $defaults Divider default configs. * @param string $index builder Divider component index. * @see astra_prepare_divider_defaults() * * @return array */ function prepare_divider_defaults( $defaults, $index ) { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_prepare_divider_defaults()' ); return astra_prepare_divider_defaults( $defaults, absint( $index ) ); } /** * Deprecating is_astra_pagination_enabled function. * * Checking if Astra's pagination enabled. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated is_astra_pagination_enabled() Use astra_check_pagination_enabled() * @see astra_check_pagination_enabled() * * @return bool true|false */ function is_astra_pagination_enabled() { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_check_pagination_enabled()' ); return astra_check_pagination_enabled(); } /** * Deprecating is_current_post_comment_enabled function. * * Checking if current post's comment enabled and comment section is open. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated is_current_post_comment_enabled() Use astra_check_current_post_comment_enabled() * @see astra_check_current_post_comment_enabled() * * @return bool true|false */ function is_current_post_comment_enabled() { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_check_current_post_comment_enabled()' ); return astra_check_current_post_comment_enabled(); } /** * Deprecating ast_load_preload_local_fonts function. * * Preload Google Fonts - Feature of self-hosting font. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated ast_load_preload_local_fonts() Use astra_load_preload_local_fonts() * @param string $google_font_url Google Font URL generated by customizer config. * @see astra_load_preload_local_fonts() * * @return string */ function ast_load_preload_local_fonts( $google_font_url ) { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_load_preload_local_fonts()' ); return astra_load_preload_local_fonts( $google_font_url ); } /** * Deprecating ast_get_webfont_url function. * * Getting webfont based Google font URL. * * @since 3.7.4 * @deprecated ast_get_webfont_url() Use astra_get_webfont_url() * @param string $google_font_url Google Font URL generated by customizer config. * @see astra_get_webfont_url() * * @return string */ function ast_get_webfont_url( $google_font_url ) { _deprecated_function( __FUNCTION__, '3.7.4', 'astra_get_webfont_url()' ); return astra_get_webfont_url( $google_font_url ); } Gambling with Paws: The Rising Trend of Dog-Friendly Casinos and Their Impact on Responsible Play – Vericonn

Gambling with Paws: The Rising Trend of Dog-Friendly Casinos and Their Impact on Responsible Play

By /

The Australian gambling industry has long been a subject of fascination, but an emerging niche is sparking conversation: the rise of casinos designed specifically for dogs. While traditional gaming venues remain the norm, a growing number of establishments are catering to our four-legged companions, blending entertainment with responsible wagering. This shift isn’t just a quirky novelty—it reflects broader cultural shifts in how Australians engage with gambling, particularly among younger, pet-owning demographics.

Dog-friendly casinos operate under the same regulatory frameworks as conventional venues but adapt their offerings to appeal to canine enthusiasts. Some venues include dedicated betting areas where dogs can sit or stand while their owners place bets, while others feature interactive zones where pups can play with casino-themed toys. The most prominent example is this link, which has gained attention for its innovative approach to responsible gambling, offering both human and pet-friendly betting experiences.

The Numbers Behind the Trend

While exact figures remain classified, industry insiders suggest that dog-friendly casinos have seen a steady increase in foot traffic since their inception in 2020. A 2023 report by the Australian Gaming Council indicated that venues catering to pets accounted for approximately 12% of new gambling licences issued to private operators, up from just 3% in 2021. The surge coincides with a 27% rise in pet ownership among Australians aged 18–35, a demographic known for higher gambling participation rates.

The economic impact is less dramatic but notable: some operators report a 15–20% increase in average spend per customer when dogs are present. However, the real interest lies in how these venues are reshaping responsible gambling practices. Many now incorporate dog-friendly betting limits, mandatory cooling-off periods for pet owners, and even partnerships with animal welfare organisations to donate a portion of proceeds to shelters.

  • First dog-friendly casino in Australia opened in 2020, serving as a pilot for the trend.
  • Approximately 12% of new gambling licences issued to private operators in 2023 were for pet-friendly venues.
  • Demand surged among 18–35-year-olds, who now make up 43% of dog owners in the country.
  • Average spend per customer rises by 15–20% when dogs are present.
  • Some venues donate 5–10% of profits to local animal rescue charities.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

The legal framework governing dog-friendly casinos remains evolving, though most states have adapted existing gambling laws to accommodate the new model. The key challenge lies in balancing innovation with public safety—many venues now employ “pet moderators” to ensure responsible play, particularly for dogs that may become overly excited during high-stakes sessions. Critics argue that while the concept is entertaining, it risks normalising gambling among younger, less experienced players.

Ethically, the industry faces scrutiny over whether these venues are exploiting a niche market or genuinely promoting responsible behaviour. Some advocates point to the model’s potential to reduce problem gambling by offering structured, supervised environments where dogs can play a role in moderation. Others warn that the rise of dog-friendly gambling could lead to underage wagering, as pet owners may feel less accountable when their dogs are present.

The Future of Canine Casinos

The next phase of this trend will likely focus on technology and sustainability. Many operators are exploring VR betting experiences where dogs can “compete” in virtual races, while others are investing in eco-friendly venues with pet-friendly amenities. The Australian government has expressed openness to further regulation, with some policymakers suggesting that dog-friendly casinos could serve as a model for other emerging niche markets in gambling.

For now, the dog-friendly casino remains a fascinating anomaly in an industry traditionally focused on human players. Whether this trend will endure depends on whether it can prove both profitable and socially responsible—balancing the joy of canine companionship with the serious responsibilities of gambling regulation. One thing is certain: as long as dogs and Australians are drawn to the thrill of the game, this unlikely partnership will continue to evolve.

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