Who let the dogs out

It’s comforting to know the greatest issue Interior Health has to deal with is dogs being allowed inside a popular brewery.

Such is the case in Penticton where an anonymous complaint has led to an all-out ban on canines inside the popular establishment.

Apparently, what prompted the complaint was a dog who vomited. (Forgive the dog, he just finished watching a Love Boat rerun.)

“With the exception of guide or service dogs, dogs are not allowed in restaurants in B.C. under the BC Food Premises Regulation,” said Interior Health environmental health team leader Joyce Michaud.

It’s time to revisit this rule. Canada lags behind Europe when it comes to being dog friendly. But, it’s changing. For years, it was difficult to book a hotel room if you owned a dog. Hoteliers soon realized that most don’t want to leave their pets at home and adapted.

Most wineries, for the record, are dog friendly.

Service and guide dogs are permitted in restaurants (and they should be), but how does a certified dog differ from a non-service dog other than exceptional training?

Dog owners all prepare and eat food in their own homes. Is there an epidemic of dog-related diseases that are passed on to their owners?

We’re always being reminded of the dangers of leaving pets unattended in hot vehicles. There would be a lesser chance of this happening if dogs were encouraged to come inside where they’re cool and safe.

Scanning our social media, some have said they won’t frequent The Cannery because of allergies, fear of dogs, and potential noise. Those are all valid concerns — but stay home.

Many of us choose our favourite watering hole based on the human clientele. Bars that attract a rough crowd are often not patronized by others for that reason. A lot of people chose The Cannery because it’s both dog and baby friendly.

The good news in all this is a compromise. Dogs are still allowed on the outdoor patio, but it does get cold in February.

It should be up to the proprietor, who invests considerable time and money, if they’re welcoming to dogs.

And, in fairness to IH, they’re doing their job. Maybe it’s time to revisit the policy and upgrade regulations to 21st century standards.