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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Another dog one

47 replies

Africa2004 · 28/11/2023 09:42

I don’t think IBU but wanted to vent. Went for a Sunday Roast in a local pub that has a very child friendly garden. My children were playing on the swings/running around while DP & I sat inside waiting for food. Noticed a couple and their dog go out so thought I should join the children.
the dog (young boxer) ran over to them and started jumping up. I don’t want mine to be afraid of dogs so I smiled and stroked the dog but told DC it was time to go in (owners didn’t react or even say a word, just carried on chatting the other side of the garden).
dog then kept jumping up at the door so I ushered one child on but couldn’t get my son past the dog for a good 30 seconds as he would have ran inside.
should the owners have got dog back or spoken to us or is it up to me to be aware of dogs in pubs?

OP posts:
reamha · 28/11/2023 11:00

sally037 · 28/11/2023 10:26

I've used ChatGPT to create a template which can be sent to various establishments asking them to reconsider their stance on allowing dogs, things won't change unless people vote with their feet and send letters. Hopefully if enough people copy and paste this we might see some changes:

Subject: Concerns Regarding Dogs in Your Coffee Shop

Dear [Coffee Shop/Cafe Owner's Name],

I trust this message finds you well. I am writing to share crucial feedback regarding the presence of dogs in your establishment, with a specific focus on hygiene-related concerns that have significantly impacted my overall experience at your coffee shop.

Hygiene Concerns:

  • Accumulation of Fur: The shedding of dog fur onto tables and seating areas has been noticeable during my visits. This not only compromises the visual appeal of the space but raises concerns about the overall cleanliness and hygiene standards.
  • Potential Accidents: While accidents are not uncommon with animals, their occurrence in a dining area poses a significant risk to the hygiene standards expected in food and beverage establishments. Ensuring prompt and thorough cleanup is essential to maintain a clean environment.
  • Scratching Dogs: Instances of dogs scratching themselves with loose hair landing on tables and food have been observed. This not only detracts from the dining experience but also raises questions about the general cleanliness of the seating areas.

Disturbances:

  • Incessant Barking: The continuous barking of dogs in the establishment can be disruptive and bothersome to patrons seeking a tranquil environment. It detracts from the intended ambiance of your coffee shop.
  • Jumping Dogs: Dogs jumping up at patrons, particularly those seeking solitude, can be perceived as intrusive. This behavior not only disrupts the personal space of customers but may also create an uncomfortable and unwelcome atmosphere.

Additional Points of Discomfort:

  • Pathway Obstruction: Dogs lying in pathways, hindering customer movement, create inconveniences for both patrons and staff trying to navigate through the space.
  • Cross-Contamination Concerns: Waiters stroking dogs and subsequently handling food raise legitimate concerns about cross-contamination. Ensuring proper hygiene practices among staff members is crucial for the health and safety of your customers.
  • Overly Friendly Dogs: Encounters with overly friendly dogs that intrude on personal space without invitation can be unsettling. Establishing guidelines for pet owners to manage their pets' behavior would contribute to a more comfortable environment for all patrons.

Allergy Considerations:

  • While less common, allergies are still a relevant concern for some customers, myself included. The presence of dogs can trigger allergic reactions, creating an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe environment for those affected.

Given the extent of these concerns, I regret to inform you that unless there is a change in the policy, I won't be able to continue using this branch of your coffee shop. I believe that addressing these issues comprehensively will significantly contribute to the overall satisfaction of your diverse customer base.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and am hopeful for positive changes that would enhance the overall experience for everyone. Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Your letter is ridiculous though- you are making complaints to an establishment about issues that you havent even seen. How can you complain about noticable hair on a visit if you haven't even been yet 😂Your making up complaints and observations about things that haven't even happened.

Crackers

YorkshirePuddingBelongs · 28/11/2023 11:02

Behindyouiam · 28/11/2023 10:58

What did they say when you asked them to recall their dog so you could get inside?

See maybe I just have the luck of having confidence but I don’t understand why people suffer this nonsense and say nothing.

”Excuse me can you recall the dog please, he’s just being a bit of a pest.” Is all it takes.

Neriah · 28/11/2023 11:27

Goodornot · 28/11/2023 09:46

They need to control their pet and I'm sick of this type of dogs owner.

I'm sick of this kind of owner, and sick to death of this kind of thread. OP was so distraught by the whole thing that it took them 2 days to think of the words to post.

Africa2004 · 28/11/2023 12:50

Noted. Sorry. I’m not distraught by any means, it was an inconvenience that put an end to their play. I do work in A&E thpugh so maybe the threat I see from dogs is biased.

OP posts:
YorkshirePuddingBelongs · 28/11/2023 12:53

OP your grievance is perfectly valid. Ignore the dog obsessives who can’t ever imagine their little Fido doing anything wrong and are projecting onto you.

Mercurial123 · 28/11/2023 13:44

ShirleyPhallus · 28/11/2023 10:01

Isn’t it

petition to have MN create a separate board titled “I hate dogs” and we can have all these same threads in there

I think it's a great idea. There's no need to start yet another post when there are so many on here already.

NotAnotherPylon · 28/11/2023 13:44

You aren't allowed to complain about dogs on Mumsnet. Even when you make it clear in the title that a dog or its owner has done something stupid/dangerous/unhygienic, a bunch of posters will open the thread and complain, on the thread that you have created, that you shouldn't have created the thread. Instead of ignoring it.

Not this again✅
You are a dog hater✅
Dogs are better than humans✅
If you don't love dogs you're a psychopath✅
Is that all you have to complain about? ✅

Mercurial123 · 28/11/2023 13:45

sollenwir · 28/11/2023 10:05

Well, you didn't have to read the thread or comment.

@Africa2004 of course YANBU, if a business allows dog owners the courtesy of bringing their animal into premises then they need to keep it under control and not be bothering anyone else.

Thanks for that. Really helpful 🐕 🐶 🦮

sollenwir · 28/11/2023 13:49

Mercurial123 · 28/11/2023 13:45

Thanks for that. Really helpful 🐕 🐶 🦮

It's a lot more helpful than that 'another dog haters thread' comments.

Oh yes, and well done posting little emojis.

TinklingToadstools · 28/11/2023 14:01

Why bother posting on here when you could have quite easily used your voice at the time and asked them to get their dog so your son could get pass ?
Doing that would also encourage your children to speak up in the future.
I have never know so many people completely unable to express themselves, l am a lover of dogs but l wouldn't have any qualms telling the owner if dog became a nuisance. Most dog owners in my opinion are very decent, l am always out and about and work in a place where dogs are very welcome, l have never come across the many issues posted on here.

CatamaranViper · 28/11/2023 14:28

sally037 · 28/11/2023 10:26

I've used ChatGPT to create a template which can be sent to various establishments asking them to reconsider their stance on allowing dogs, things won't change unless people vote with their feet and send letters. Hopefully if enough people copy and paste this we might see some changes:

Subject: Concerns Regarding Dogs in Your Coffee Shop

Dear [Coffee Shop/Cafe Owner's Name],

I trust this message finds you well. I am writing to share crucial feedback regarding the presence of dogs in your establishment, with a specific focus on hygiene-related concerns that have significantly impacted my overall experience at your coffee shop.

Hygiene Concerns:

  • Accumulation of Fur: The shedding of dog fur onto tables and seating areas has been noticeable during my visits. This not only compromises the visual appeal of the space but raises concerns about the overall cleanliness and hygiene standards.
  • Potential Accidents: While accidents are not uncommon with animals, their occurrence in a dining area poses a significant risk to the hygiene standards expected in food and beverage establishments. Ensuring prompt and thorough cleanup is essential to maintain a clean environment.
  • Scratching Dogs: Instances of dogs scratching themselves with loose hair landing on tables and food have been observed. This not only detracts from the dining experience but also raises questions about the general cleanliness of the seating areas.

Disturbances:

  • Incessant Barking: The continuous barking of dogs in the establishment can be disruptive and bothersome to patrons seeking a tranquil environment. It detracts from the intended ambiance of your coffee shop.
  • Jumping Dogs: Dogs jumping up at patrons, particularly those seeking solitude, can be perceived as intrusive. This behavior not only disrupts the personal space of customers but may also create an uncomfortable and unwelcome atmosphere.

Additional Points of Discomfort:

  • Pathway Obstruction: Dogs lying in pathways, hindering customer movement, create inconveniences for both patrons and staff trying to navigate through the space.
  • Cross-Contamination Concerns: Waiters stroking dogs and subsequently handling food raise legitimate concerns about cross-contamination. Ensuring proper hygiene practices among staff members is crucial for the health and safety of your customers.
  • Overly Friendly Dogs: Encounters with overly friendly dogs that intrude on personal space without invitation can be unsettling. Establishing guidelines for pet owners to manage their pets' behavior would contribute to a more comfortable environment for all patrons.

Allergy Considerations:

  • While less common, allergies are still a relevant concern for some customers, myself included. The presence of dogs can trigger allergic reactions, creating an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe environment for those affected.

Given the extent of these concerns, I regret to inform you that unless there is a change in the policy, I won't be able to continue using this branch of your coffee shop. I believe that addressing these issues comprehensively will significantly contribute to the overall satisfaction of your diverse customer base.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and am hopeful for positive changes that would enhance the overall experience for everyone. Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Sorry but this letter is absolutely useless.

Asides from the fact you're complaining about things you haven't even witnessed (scratching, flying and accumulating dog hairs etc), you're also point blank making up scenarios (waiter's stroking dogs, not washing their hands and handling food) which could lead to staff members being unfairly disciplined.

Also many of these points can be managed by staff/owners ie telling dog owners to move their dogs out of pathways, refusing access to badly behaved dogs (including incessant barking) etc.

If you actually want to make a difference, write a letter based on your actual experience.

kitsuneghost · 28/11/2023 14:31

Mercurial123 · 28/11/2023 09:56

And yet another one.... yabvu because it's so boring.

It literally said another dog one in the title
I love a good anti-social dog thread so I click on it
You don't so you don't click on it.

That's how it works. Easy

Nuca · 28/11/2023 14:34

I would have thought it's obvious that you're not being unreasonable because clearly a dog shouldn't be off lead in a pub. These are the kind of owners that make people hate all dog owners by being stupid and allowing their dog to do this. And then we end up with so many people hating dogs and thinking all dog owners are the same

Caerulea · 28/11/2023 17:47

sally037 · 28/11/2023 10:26

I've used ChatGPT to create a template which can be sent to various establishments asking them to reconsider their stance on allowing dogs, things won't change unless people vote with their feet and send letters. Hopefully if enough people copy and paste this we might see some changes:

Subject: Concerns Regarding Dogs in Your Coffee Shop

Dear [Coffee Shop/Cafe Owner's Name],

I trust this message finds you well. I am writing to share crucial feedback regarding the presence of dogs in your establishment, with a specific focus on hygiene-related concerns that have significantly impacted my overall experience at your coffee shop.

Hygiene Concerns:

  • Accumulation of Fur: The shedding of dog fur onto tables and seating areas has been noticeable during my visits. This not only compromises the visual appeal of the space but raises concerns about the overall cleanliness and hygiene standards.
  • Potential Accidents: While accidents are not uncommon with animals, their occurrence in a dining area poses a significant risk to the hygiene standards expected in food and beverage establishments. Ensuring prompt and thorough cleanup is essential to maintain a clean environment.
  • Scratching Dogs: Instances of dogs scratching themselves with loose hair landing on tables and food have been observed. This not only detracts from the dining experience but also raises questions about the general cleanliness of the seating areas.

Disturbances:

  • Incessant Barking: The continuous barking of dogs in the establishment can be disruptive and bothersome to patrons seeking a tranquil environment. It detracts from the intended ambiance of your coffee shop.
  • Jumping Dogs: Dogs jumping up at patrons, particularly those seeking solitude, can be perceived as intrusive. This behavior not only disrupts the personal space of customers but may also create an uncomfortable and unwelcome atmosphere.

Additional Points of Discomfort:

  • Pathway Obstruction: Dogs lying in pathways, hindering customer movement, create inconveniences for both patrons and staff trying to navigate through the space.
  • Cross-Contamination Concerns: Waiters stroking dogs and subsequently handling food raise legitimate concerns about cross-contamination. Ensuring proper hygiene practices among staff members is crucial for the health and safety of your customers.
  • Overly Friendly Dogs: Encounters with overly friendly dogs that intrude on personal space without invitation can be unsettling. Establishing guidelines for pet owners to manage their pets' behavior would contribute to a more comfortable environment for all patrons.

Allergy Considerations:

  • While less common, allergies are still a relevant concern for some customers, myself included. The presence of dogs can trigger allergic reactions, creating an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe environment for those affected.

Given the extent of these concerns, I regret to inform you that unless there is a change in the policy, I won't be able to continue using this branch of your coffee shop. I believe that addressing these issues comprehensively will significantly contribute to the overall satisfaction of your diverse customer base.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and am hopeful for positive changes that would enhance the overall experience for everyone. Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Oh give over. The fact that dog friendly places exist so widely says you're in the minority - I don't understand why the dog-haters on MN fail to realise that.

Allowing dogs brings EXTRA trade. If it didn't they wouldn't do it, it really is that simple.

And as someone with a few decades in this industry I can tell you, with absolute certainty, that humans are messier & more annoying than dogs. By a wiiiiide margin.

Mercurial123 · 28/11/2023 18:08

sollenwir · 28/11/2023 13:49

It's a lot more helpful than that 'another dog haters thread' comments.

Oh yes, and well done posting little emojis.

Thanks I'm pleased you like them 🐕!

sollenwir · 28/11/2023 18:39

Mercurial123 · 28/11/2023 18:08

Thanks I'm pleased you like them 🐕!

I'm pleased for you, that doesn't mean I like them.

vodkaredbullgirl · 28/11/2023 18:42

Another one 😂and it's not the weekend yet.

EyeRolling23 · 28/11/2023 19:05

sally037 · 28/11/2023 10:26

I've used ChatGPT to create a template which can be sent to various establishments asking them to reconsider their stance on allowing dogs, things won't change unless people vote with their feet and send letters. Hopefully if enough people copy and paste this we might see some changes:

Subject: Concerns Regarding Dogs in Your Coffee Shop

Dear [Coffee Shop/Cafe Owner's Name],

I trust this message finds you well. I am writing to share crucial feedback regarding the presence of dogs in your establishment, with a specific focus on hygiene-related concerns that have significantly impacted my overall experience at your coffee shop.

Hygiene Concerns:

  • Accumulation of Fur: The shedding of dog fur onto tables and seating areas has been noticeable during my visits. This not only compromises the visual appeal of the space but raises concerns about the overall cleanliness and hygiene standards.
  • Potential Accidents: While accidents are not uncommon with animals, their occurrence in a dining area poses a significant risk to the hygiene standards expected in food and beverage establishments. Ensuring prompt and thorough cleanup is essential to maintain a clean environment.
  • Scratching Dogs: Instances of dogs scratching themselves with loose hair landing on tables and food have been observed. This not only detracts from the dining experience but also raises questions about the general cleanliness of the seating areas.

Disturbances:

  • Incessant Barking: The continuous barking of dogs in the establishment can be disruptive and bothersome to patrons seeking a tranquil environment. It detracts from the intended ambiance of your coffee shop.
  • Jumping Dogs: Dogs jumping up at patrons, particularly those seeking solitude, can be perceived as intrusive. This behavior not only disrupts the personal space of customers but may also create an uncomfortable and unwelcome atmosphere.

Additional Points of Discomfort:

  • Pathway Obstruction: Dogs lying in pathways, hindering customer movement, create inconveniences for both patrons and staff trying to navigate through the space.
  • Cross-Contamination Concerns: Waiters stroking dogs and subsequently handling food raise legitimate concerns about cross-contamination. Ensuring proper hygiene practices among staff members is crucial for the health and safety of your customers.
  • Overly Friendly Dogs: Encounters with overly friendly dogs that intrude on personal space without invitation can be unsettling. Establishing guidelines for pet owners to manage their pets' behavior would contribute to a more comfortable environment for all patrons.

Allergy Considerations:

  • While less common, allergies are still a relevant concern for some customers, myself included. The presence of dogs can trigger allergic reactions, creating an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe environment for those affected.

Given the extent of these concerns, I regret to inform you that unless there is a change in the policy, I won't be able to continue using this branch of your coffee shop. I believe that addressing these issues comprehensively will significantly contribute to the overall satisfaction of your diverse customer base.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and am hopeful for positive changes that would enhance the overall experience for everyone. Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

But most of those things aren't true.... from the vast majority of dogs hair doesn't fly around on surfaces, their presence causes no more obstruction that prams etc and if waiters strok them and handle food without washing their hands they probably aren't very hygiene aware, so you can hardly blame the dog.

And what about all the people who like dogs. Why are your opinions more important than theirs?

Can't you just live and let live?

Andthereyougo · 28/11/2023 19:12

YorkshirePuddingBelongs · 28/11/2023 11:02

See maybe I just have the luck of having confidence but I don’t understand why people suffer this nonsense and say nothing.

”Excuse me can you recall the dog please, he’s just being a bit of a pest.” Is all it takes.

This.
And if they still don’t act I resort to “ control your dog or I will” That works.

enchantedsquirrelwood · 29/11/2023 10:57

Africa2004 · 28/11/2023 12:50

Noted. Sorry. I’m not distraught by any means, it was an inconvenience that put an end to their play. I do work in A&E thpugh so maybe the threat I see from dogs is biased.

Not biased. Realistic. There are a lot of incidents caused by out of control dogs - not just the obvious biting, but also leading to people falling off bikes, tripping over them etc.

enchantedsquirrelwood · 29/11/2023 10:58

And what about all the people who like dogs. Why are your opinions more important than theirs

Because it's a lifestyle choice to have a dog. My not having one doesn't inconvenience anyone.

Having a dog can inconvenience a lot of people in a lot of ways.

Willyoujustbequiet · 29/11/2023 11:06

ShirleyPhallus · 28/11/2023 10:34

Oh behave yourself calling me dim

of course OP shouldn’t have to deal with dogs jumping up on her

but these threads are daily. Some sort of complaint about a dog running up to someone / licking a child / walking past a person looking at them funny and the answers are all the same “no bad dogs, just bad owners, dogs should be on leads, no you’re not unreasonable not to want a dog licking you”. There is no nuance or debate to these threads, they’re the same same same day after day

Here's a novel idea for you then - just scroll past threads that don't interest you.

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