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Bring well-mannered dogs to Yappy Hours and hotel events
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Don't let your dog display poor manners at eateries.
Lacking thumbs makes it tricky for dogs to use utensils, but that shouldn’t stop them from displaying good manners when dining out with their people.
In fact, inviting dogs to eateries is proving to be a smart strategy in these lean economic times. Case in point: the Saba Sushi Bar and Lounge in Boca Raton, Fla. Every night from 4-7 p.m., well-mannered dogs (on leashes) are welcomed to participate in Yappy Hour. Canine guests lap up bowls of water while their two-legged pals dine on sushi and/or Thai food.
“In Boca Raton, it seems there are a lot of toy dogs and their owners want to take them when they are out and about,” says Zack Gardner, Saba owner/manager. “I have two Labrador retrievers and can understand people wanting their dogs to be with them.”
On the other coast, the new Hotel Indigo in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, stages Canine Cocktail events every Tuesday night. Dogs get to mingle off-leash on the ninth floor terrace and enjoy complimentary healthy treats and bottled water while their people sip on specialty cocktails like the signature Blue Indigo Phi Martini. One dollar of every drink is donated to the San Diego Humane Society.
And, should you desire to stay overnight, the hotel does not charge extra for your dog – no matter the size. That’s guaranteed, says Chris Jones, general manager and proud pet parent of Sandie, a former shelter Lab mix.
Ensuring that the number of pet-welcoming eateries – and pet-attended events -- stays steady – or increases – depends on those at the other end of the leash – the owners.
Here are six “petiquette” pointers for you and your pooch the next time you head for a pet-accepting eatery locally or nationally:
- Test your dog’s obedience-heeding commands at home and on walks. Your dog should be able to ace the “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” commands.
- Exercise your dog before dining out. A tired dog is less apt to be rambunctious and more apt to want to snooze under your table while you enjoy your meal.
- Give your dog ample time to take care of his bathroom needs before you head to a restaurant. Just in case: bring extra poop disposable bags so your dog doesn’t create a “stink” at the restaurant.
- Come prepared. Bring a portable water bowl and perhaps a bag of doggy treats.
- Play it low key. Don’t make a big fuss about your dog joining you at an eatery.
- Reel in that leash. Keep your dog on a short rein – about 4 feet. Do not let your dog wander into tables occupied by other patrons.
- Set your dog up for success by selecting times to test his dining manners at non-peaking serving times. Request a “to go” bag if your dog barks, lunges at other dogs and pesters other patrons.
- Dish out a big tip – of 20 percent or more – to show your appreciation to the restaurant staff for allowing four-leggers in their outdoor areas. Bone appétit!
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