by TG Rabbitt

Created on: June 17, 2009   Last Updated: June 19, 2009

First of all it's not about the cleanliness of a dog, as there are people who could use a lesson or two in grooming and proper restroom etiquette. The issue at hand is why, why must you take your dog everywhere you go? I really don't believe that this sort of behavior is to a dog's or any pet's benefit. I have been places where I was able to take my dog as I dined, it was always on the patio. I love my dog and he is a major member of my family, but I would not feel comfortable taking him inside of a restaurant. While most dogs are fairly well behaved and clean, some aren't and if you include one, you must include them all. Like people, dogs all have different personalities and characteristics.

I don't own a restaurant, however I could not imagine having to allow dogs in and thus limiting the customers that will then patronize my place of business. I am all for the owner of a restaurant to have the freedom to allow dogs inside, but also to exclude dogs if they so desire.

When I go out to dinner I not only choose the type of food I want to eat, I am also influenced by the type of people that frequent the establishment. If I knew of a restaurant where people brought their dogs, I probably would not go. There was a time when I brought my dog with me to eat Thai food, we were on the patio where some people were fine with my dog being there, most weren't and I felt awkward. I think of myself as a respectable human being, at least I try to be and I want to give respect to others by not forcing them to dine with my dog.

Many dogs, like mine love people and they don't understand that not everyone wants to be near them. Why would anybody take their dog into a situation that could lead to disaster...an unnecessary encounter with a not-so friendly dog. When socially friendly dogs get together they want to play and roughhouse, can you imagine how this would go over with the two dogs in a restaurant full of people. Here's another issue to be dealt with, how many dogs would be allowed in a restaurant at once...will there be a limit?

Allowing pets into restaurants sounds like a wonderful and humane idea on the surface, but dig deeper and there are more issues that say it's a bad idea. It's cruel and selfish to bring your beloved pet to a place where so many wonderful aromas abound, with little to no reward. The world abounds with places that are dog friendly and they are usually green and full of trees. So the next time you go out for a bite, leave Scooby-doo at home...he won't mind.

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