Now, here is an excerpt from a blog written by Suzanne that is worth repeating. The biggest concern most people neglect to mention...

ALLERGIES. There are millions of children and adults with severe allergies to dogs. It poses a health risk for them to be in an establishment that has pet dander. Should these paying patrons, human beings, be subjected to itching, wheezing, coughing or WORSE just so that a dog can relax under the table? It is completely ludicrous to subject one human being to a dangerous health environment so that an animal can enjoy the outdoor seating. Its shocking that your article completely ignores perhaps the most important crux of this argument – the fact that dogs in dining establishments can cause a health risk for other patrons.

This is not just about the fact that dogs carry fleas, walk barefoot on the pavement, step in their own urine and excrement and then walk into a cafe or restaurant where FOOD is being served. This is not just about the fact that waiters who may pet the dog, or brush past and contaminate their apron with pet dander may get harmful bacteria in another diner’s FOOD. This is not just the fact that dogs may be rambunctious, jump on the table, or try to grab some of the food and destroy the dining experience of paying customers. Nor is it just about the fact that pet owners may pet their dog and then take their hands and touch glasses, cutlery, plates and napkins, contaminating the washing water for restaurant equipment that is used to serve FOOD. This is not just about the fact that, according to the written law, the FDA has banned live animals from establishments where food is served. It is ILLEGAL, however you may try to brush it off or explain it away, those regulations are there to protect people. Not just from salmonella and e-coli, but from the harmful pathogens that dogs naturally carry. It is not only for these reasons that dogs should be banned from establishments where food is served. It is also for the fact that the simple act of bringing your dog into a restaurant or dining patio can cause tremendous and severe health risks for those who are allergic to dogs. One paying patron’s infatuation with their animal should never supersede the health and safety of another PAYING PATRON, especially when food is involved.