Baku the Dream Eater

Baku the Dream Eater
Baku (source: the noominarium)

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Tips for Outdoor Eating with Your Dog

The weather is warming and the outdoor cafes are opening their doors and setting up their patios.  You’d love to stop at one of them and grab some lunch, but you’ve got your dog on a leash with you.  How can you successfully enjoy your meal without starting a food fight or knocking over a waiter?  Here are some tips to having a great meal outside while letting your dog enjoy the ambiance of a patio table. *Don’t forget to call ahead to the restaurant to make sure they’re pet-friendly*.


What to bring:  
A pet first aid kit:  If you don’t already carry one, it’s a great thing to make up and keep with you.  This will solve any minor issues, like an accidental burn or minor scrapes.  


Your pet’s identification:  Make sure your dog license is up to date and you carry a copy of your pet’s vaccine history, just in case the restaurant requires pets to be properly vaccinated.  A rabies tag and proof of a microchip number is important as well, just in case the unthinkable happens and your dog gets loose.


Snacks/water for your dog:  They shouldn’t be eating restaurant food, unless the menu includes doggy-friendly items (some do!)  Know if your pet is allergic to anything beforehand, and bring some munchies for them in case they can’t eat what you’re eating.  Also, remember to bring a bowl for the pet, or ask for a plastic bowl or cup.  Dogs are not allowed to eat or drink out of restaurant tableware unless it’s disposable.


Doggy pick up bags:  It’s best to walk your dog before sitting down, so he doesn’t pick a very inconvenient time or place to relieve himself.


What to remember:
Your pet needs to be safely leashed at all times.  Retractable leashes aren’t always the best idea, choose a sturdy leash with a secure fastener.  If you need to tie your pet’s leash down, tie it to your chair, NOT the table.  If your dog is large enough to move the table, you might end up wearing your lunch!
Your dog should be well-behaved.  Important commands such as “sit” and “stay” are imperative to good doggie manners at the outdoor cafe.  Don’t allow your dog to socialize with other diners or pets, unless it’s welcomed. If you have a pet who may not be amenable to strangers or small children, it’s best to leave them home.  Remember, a dog in a restaurant is bound to attract people, and not everyone will ask first before petting your dog.  
Keep your pet out of the path of the servers by commanding your dog to sit or lay down near your table.  It’ll prevent any accidents or injuries to the wait staff.  If you can secure a table away from the main pathways, this will help keep your dog and everyone else safe.  
Check the area around your table before sitting down.  Make sure any loose food/garbage items are picked up, and ask any women nearby to close their purses if necessary.  It’s better to keep the temptation away than deal with any consequences later.

These tips should help turn your outdoor dining experience into a fun, satisfying outing!


~Noomi

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