03/10/08 Pet Problems

What ever happened to the no animals allowed in restaurants, grocery stores and other food service related businesses? I'm not speaking of service animals; I'm speaking of just plain pets. In the last week alone I have seen three instances of persons trying to carry small dogs into businesses which serve food. This may come as a shock and surprise to some people but it is illegal in most states to have any animal other than a service animal inside a restaurant, grocery store or food related business. Any business turning a blind eye to this is in danger of losing their license. Some states are toying with variances to state law allowing restaurants to welcome dogs only by providing a separate entrance to an outdoor patio, post "dog friendly" signs and install curtains separating the inside of the restaurant from the patio. Oh, and along with all that, prevent dogs from touching the staff. What a headache for the restaurant. And personally I don't want to see Fido relieve himself during my meal. Please, if you're going out to eat, just leave your pooch at home. Your pet and we will thank you.