Question

Having dog-friendly restaurants is a big thing now (think Lazy Dog Café, any place with a patio…). However, there are strict guidelines about animals in eating establishments. Do some online research and please answer the following:

1. Can a patron bring their dog into a bar? Does it make a difference if the bar serves food or are the rules the same?
2. What are the laws for pets in a food-service establishment?
3. What about service animals – what are the rules for having a service animal in a food-service establishment (i.e., can they sit at the table, under the table, etc.)
4. What is the difference between a service animal and a pet, and how would you know as a manager? What can you ask the patron?

Answer 1

As per health and safety regulation, if food is prepared or handed in an establishment, animals are usually not allowed. So, in order to answer the first question we have to ask if food is being served in the bar. In case there is no kitchen and food is not being served then there is no restriction on bringing a pet by a patron.

Law on pets in restaurant vary from states to states. However, most states agree that pets are allowed in an outdoor setup. But in an indoor setup, where food is handled, prepared or served pets are restricted from entering those premises unless it is a service animal. This is as per the FDA.

Service animals are allowed to enter premises without any restriction. This is because it is protected under Americans with disabilities act. Service animals are meant to help disabled people get around (for example, the blind) and thus are allowed irrespective of whether the restaurant/bar serves food. Service animals are viewed as medical equipment in most cases. Naturally this means that the dog/pet is allowed to sit under the table and out of the way of the other patrons. However, if needed service animals are allowed access to all public areas within the restaurant.

The key difference between service animals and a pet is that a pet is a companion with or without any reason or specific purpose. A service animal on the other hand is a trained animal that is supposed to provide assistance to the disabled people. As a manager of the restaurant it is rude to ask the patron his/her disability. However, you can ask if the animal is a service animal.