PRO TIPS FOR A PET FRIENDLY VENUE

Provide water bowls and even beds to welcome pets

Rearrange or reduce furniture to provide plenty of space for the safe separation of pets

Familiarise yourself with your local health and safety laws, paying regard to keeping pets and your food handling area well apart

Consider covering slippery floors or surfaces that a dog’s nails might mark with carpets

Insist all dogs remain on their leash while in your venue to prevent the possibility of any unruly behaviour (if possible, section off an outdoor area where dogs can run free)

Consider limiting access to your venue for large or aggressive breeds

Ensure that customers with pet allergies have access to dining areas away from pets

Create an extra revenue stream by offering a dog treat menu

Consider asking pet-owning patrons to ring ahead so you’re not overrun with furry friends!

Pet owner Caroline Zambrero knows first-hand the value of pet-friendly food venues. She has recently moved from the Sydney suburb of Baulkham Hills to nearby Schofields with her family’s 8-year-old Anatolian shepherd dog, Cruz. Being able to take Cruz to food venues has helped her family settle into its new environs.

“It’s been an emotional time moving into a new area, getting to know neighbours and local businesses,” says Zambrero. “Cruz is part of the family and it’s a great way to meet people as they stop by to pat him and ask questions about his breed, which the kids love answering.”

Being the owner of a large dog, Zambrero is mindful of the effect Cruz can have on fellow diners and is careful to make sure her pet is comfortable and not interfering with the needs of others.

Her advice for food venues is as simple as it is practical.

“Having more space between tables helps, even if you don’t have a giant dog. A leash holder is helpful—maybe a hook on the edge of the table or attached to a wall. A doggy menu is nice.”

In Food Venues

Zambrero adds that it’s vital to understand how dogs behave around food in order to make the environment safe and welcoming for all.

“It’s a rule at home that Cruz stays away from the dinner table when we’re eating. You never know with dogs; they could grab food out of little hands and accidentally bite them.

“When I eat in venues with dogs around me, I watch out for dogs that are sitting too close and remind the kids to watch out if they drop something on the floor.”

Shannon agrees and also emphasises the importance of education for dog owners.

“Education of owners on what is correct etiquette when bringing a dog as well can help with any other customers who may not be open to it,” she says.

“Some anxious dogs can be prone to barking or having a go if another dog gets to close, so I don’t think having just one area is necessary the right approach either. Spacing out dogs is often better.

“Plenty of water bowls, shade and cover, and provision of doggy bags and waste disposal bins can help, too.”