Several years ago, Sarasota passed a law enabling residents to bring their dogs with them to area restaurants. This was a game changer for people who wished to explore the area all day – now not only could they walk their dogs through parks and along waterways, but they could stop for lunch or dinner without worrying about what to do with the dog.
Cities and towns across the state and country have passed similar laws, and hotels are even becoming more pet friendly all the time. Day outings and traveling have never been easier with your dog – but dog friendly restaurants are not for every pet. In fact, if your dog is not ready for it, this can be a confusing environment and present too many temptations. Here are some factors to consider before venturing out to eat with your pooch.
Dog Friendly Restaurants in Sarasota & Bradenton
Etiquette and manners are very important when eating out in public. For dogs, this means that they must have a grasp of all basic commands – and maybe a few not so basic ones. Even at dog friendly restaurants, your dog will be expected to sit quietly under the table or off to the side, out of the way of other patrons and restaurant employees. This requires more skills than you may think.
“Sit”, “stay” and “lie down” should all be completely mastered before attempting dog friendly restaurants. If your dog ever has trouble with these basic commands, do not bring them. This is because there are a lot of distractions and temptations at a restaurant. Keep in mind, dogs are still required to be outside, so you will be eating in an outdoor seating area. If you do not want to sit outside, you will not be able to dine with your dog.
Food: The obvious temptation is food. Your dog will be subjected to a variety of delicious aromas, and will see food going past them on plates, and set down on tables within their line of sight. If your dog is generally well-behaved but can’t keep themselves from begging, even dog friendly restaurants are inappropriate. Don’t assume it’s ok if they only beg from your table – not every patron is a dog owner or dog lover. The dog must be kept away from the table, plates and serving trays.
Other Dogs: Given the nature of the establishment, there are likely to be many other dogs lying under neighboring tables. Unless your dog can completely ignore other animals, they shouldn’t be brought to the restaurant. Even if it is a rare occurrence that your dog reacts aggressively towards another dog, this behavior should be completely trained out of them.
Other People, Cars: Again, just make sure that your dog is unfazed by strangers, loud noises, or street chaos.
Most restaurants are happy to put out water for your dog, but you may want to bring along a water or food bowl, or a favorite toy to keep them occupied while you enjoy your meal.
Finally, be considerate to other patrons. A friend related a story of a dog who jumped up and grabbed food off her table at one bistro in Sarasota. The owners simply laughed and expressed how cute it was. Needless to say, the horrified manager replaced the meals and asked the owners to leave. Remember, your dog eating with you is a privilege that should not infringe on any other patrons.
But once your dog is used to the activity, being able to bring your dog out to all day outings and share a meal with your companions is a great way to enjoy our beautiful city. If your dog requires a little brushing up on his obedience training, give Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training a call. We’ll have you out enjoying your day together in no time.
