Last Saturday was International Dog Day, which sparked my interest in a growing trend: bringing dogs to restaurants. This is a significant change for the Philippines, considering their history with dog consumption. My family has compiled a list of dog-friendly restaurants and malls that continues to expand. I will share this list in future columns with updates. However, as a veterinarian and public health professional, I believe it’s crucial to discuss the courtesies that should be implemented, as there are currently no laws in the Philippines regarding dogs in restaurants.
I am concerned that if problems arise from dogs dining in restaurants due to irresponsible pet ownership or ignorance of public health risks, we may see a backlash. Additionally, given our legalistic environment, we may end up with unnecessary and excessive laws. In contrast, other countries already have a range of legislation surrounding dogs in restaurants. For instance, 23 states in the United States permit dogs in restaurants. The most comprehensive list can be found on Michigan State University’s Animal Legal and History Center website.
In most states, dogs are only allowed to dine outdoors or in designated patio areas. The aim is to have a separate space for dogs, and some states even require separate entrances for customers with pets. It is strictly prohibited for employees to touch dogs, and if contact does occur, they must wash their hands immediately. Furthermore, dogs are not permitted in areas where food is prepared.
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times or “under reasonable control,” with some states specifically requiring adult supervision. It is important to note that dogs are not allowed on chairs, tables, or other furniture. However, some dog-friendly restaurants in the Philippines, like Señor de la O’, allow dogs on laps or chairs. To meet halfway, I believe dog owners should bring their own dishes and use a piece of cloth to protect chairs from scratches or stains.
While regulations vary from state to state, most states mandate that restaurants provide dog-specific eating and drinking utensils. One notable local example is JT Manukan, which offers plastic canisters for customers with dogs. It is interesting to see how JT Manukan has contributed to changing the perception of dog owners as dog-eaters in the Philippines. I would love to see more macho guys enjoying a drink with their furry companions.
Some states have unique laws, such as Rhode Island allowing restaurants to regulate the size and type of dogs allowed. Virginia permits dogs in certain areas of breweries and wineries, which should pique the interest of craft beer lovers. On the other hand, Georgia prohibits both employees and other restaurant diners from feeding dogs, excluding the dog owners themselves.
Although the acceptance of dogs in restaurants has increased, there is still room for improvement. Surprisingly, I cannot think of any dog-friendly Chinese restaurants locally. If you are aware of any, please email me.
You may be wondering about cats. Only five states allow cats in restaurants, primarily due to allergies and difficulties in controlling cat hair. In those states, however, cats are allowed to sit on their owners’ laps.
In conclusion, while the concept of dogs dining out is gaining popularity, there are important considerations to ensure a harmonious environment. It is crucial to establish guidelines and educate pet owners about responsible behavior and potential public health risks. By doing so, we can avoid unnecessary laws and create a positive experience for everyone involved.
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