LAST WEEK: ARE PET-FRIENDLY BUSINESSES A DOGGONE GOOD OR BAD IDEA?

More metro Atlanta businesses — from restaurants and hotels to department stores and home improvement centers — are making themselves “dog friendly,” welcoming people who bring their pooches. Good idea, or bad idea? Here’s what readers had to say: I live in the Oak Grove/LaVista neighborhood and would support more of our restaurants allowing well-mannered dogs in outdoor eating spaces. There is a park in my neighborhood with five eateries close by. I tried to stop by one of them recently after walking my dog in hopes of having a glass of wine on the patio before heading home. But unfortunately, I was turned away. I plan on doing an informal survey of the remaining eateries to see which ones would be open to dogs on their patios. It would have been so nice to have a glass of wine or beer with my pooch after our walk in a great neighborhood park. – Dianna Daniel Thanks for your article. I would like to vote that owners of pets should keep them at home, and I do NOT want to see them in any businesses. –J Let’s allow dogs into more places of business. England has allowed dog owners to bring their pets into commercial establishments for decades without any visible ill effects. – Paul Kurke Yes, it is a good idea for businesses to welcome you and your pet, as it shows a humane side to that particular business. And I would frequent those businesses who do welcome me and my pet more often. –Jo Anne Wages Canine-friendly businesses encourage people to meet their neighbors by giving individuals the opportunity to say “Hi” to someone they might not have otherwise met. Businesses are doing more than just providing a chance to get the dog out for a walk; they’re giving people reasons to meet their fellow community members. Typically, dog owners are very empathetic people, and when businesses welcome dogs, they’re welcoming people who care about others. “Dog friendly” businesses also help educate the public of the importance of being respectful and courteous to one another. Isn’t that what we want as a community? – Kelly Blake