Nationwide, more and more restaurants are becoming pet-friendly establishments, increasing food options for animal owners and increasing revenue for the hospitality industry. With a forecast of $ 15 billion being spent annually on feeding pets, it seems like an excellent business decision to take the simple steps necessary to accommodate owners and their domestic friends. Some restaurants are even adding special menus featuring canine food, while other enterprising bar owners have debuted “Doggie Happy Hours,” a special time when owners can bring their canine companions to enjoy the atmosphere.
When you finally find those dog-friendly restaurants, be sure to practice proper food etiquette. Doing so can encourage other establishments to become – and current ones – to remain dog-friendly. Here are some tips for dining out with your four-legged best friend.
Training preparation
– Practice your commands. Commands like sit, sit, stay, and come should easily reach your pet. Working on training with these commands in a dog park is ideal because you will have distractions similar to those in dog-friendly restaurants.
– Walk, play fetch and exercise your puppy before arriving at the restaurant. A tired dog is a well behaved dog!
– To prevent your pet from asking for food from you and everyone around you, feed it before you go out.
– Some dog friendly restaurants provide extra water bowls for your dog, but bring a portable one to be prepared.
– Pack any durable chew toys or tasty treats that will keep your dog busy while he eats. Frozen dog treats are a great option.
– You should always make sure your pet’s vaccinations and flea medications are up to date, especially considering that your pet may run into other four-legged diners.
Preparation rental
– Search online for dog-friendly restaurants or call ahead to make sure the venue has a pet-friendly patio.
– Choose to go during the less busy hours, especially if it is the first time that your dog is there. You will also have the best choice of seating options when there are not so many people.
Restaurant rules
– To keep your furry companion out of the aisle or out of the waiter’s path, request a corner table.
– On a standard leash, tie your dog to your chair, not your table. If he’s tied to the table, he may try to follow you when you get up, which will result in an overturned table.
– Just like a newborn baby in a restaurant, once they start making noise and disturbing other diners, you may feel like you’ve stayed longer than your welcome. If you can’t get her to calm down, opt for a “take out box” and leave.
– Clean up after your dog’s mess. Leaving muddy footprints or food on the floor for the next customer is rude.
– Because your server will have to accommodate not only you, but your furry friend as well, tip accordingly. Your waiter will most likely draw extra water and clean up any spills your pup may cause.
Of course, rule number one is that practice makes perfect. Keep working on social skills and getting your pet used to strange people and dogs. Improving their behavior will help improve the chances that more establishments will become dog-friendly businesses in the future.
