Really don't like dogs being in virtually every cafe now

[Wishididntseemsogrumpy]

I know another one, and yes this is quite trivial really.

Last week we went to a gorgeous new cafe, sat down, and within a minute I realised a large dog had appeared and was licking dds outstretched hand (she was delighted of course) then we had to get up and go and wash before eating, only to see the dog licking her hands again. Argh. Then it turned around and was wagging it's tail into me (I'm unfortunately allergic to fur and would rather not have to have fur on my clothes) - we werent even that close to the other table. It's just so annoying and I know I can ask it's owners to keep it away from us but seems a bit cruel to the dog and I jolly well shouldn't have to, they should be keeping an eye themselves without me having to have an awkward chat. Manners are meant to make everyone feel comfortable and not force people into seeming unreasonable because they don't want to get involved with the animal.

Then this afternoon, different cafe, on my own this time and got the fright of my life when all of a sudden a dog snarled and snapped at a child a few tables away, who of course screamed and was very distressed, someone could have had a heart attack!

I am going to have to be more mindful of places which don't have dogs in future I think.

And I imagine I am probably going to be told I am being unreasonable. I just want a coffee in peace without slobbering or snarling dogs

Would just like to add the only time I’ve caught any disease or parasites it’s been off children not dogs and I live with both.

No need to go down that path. Please don't.

When I tell people I go to Wetherspoons for breakfast/lunch/dinner, for a treat they seem surprised that I'd choose that for a treat. Well it is for me, no dogs allowed, not even if there's a garden. No crap to stand in and no dogs to step over. Massive treat.

Neither do dogs in cafes they’re on leads- kids not so much.

It’s a wonder my children survived, being brought up in a house with a dog. We do hoover every day so stray fur is at a minimum, but honestly? I didn’t wash their hands every time they cuddled their dog.

I like dogs and have one but do agree with you on the whole. It's nice if some pubs and cafes allow then but not ones in cities, towns etc just the rural dog walking type places.

I've seen a cat in a cafe, brought in in one of those back packs, left disgruntled when a member of staff politely said it wasn't allowed on the sofas. It wasn't licking anyone I was with or barking or snapping though, so I just observed bemused from where I sat

No they were saying they didn't like dogs in cafes if you want to start a new thread about "everything" feel free too

Why has it changed so much? When I grew up dogs (apart from guide dogs) were not allowed in places that sold food because of hygiene. Were not allowed any other shops really, just wasn't the norm.

Must be great not stepping over prams or roaming children. Dogs are always under tables .

I live in a Home Counties town where you are in the minority if you don't have a dog (I don't) Most cafes use their dog-friendliness as a selling point. I think the two main pubs we have - have got it right, dogs are allowed in the bar area and you can eat in the bar area, both also have a restaurant area, no dogs in that area. One of the pubs has a 'pub dog'. I think the balance is right there.

I agree op does my head in

As an adult, I caught nits off of someone. Not from a child either.
Also other things too.
I know a lady who works with small children and she is always sick with D&V type things.

I agree. Constantly barking dogs put everyone on edge. It happens so often. People really are dicks bringing yappy dogs into public spaces like cafes.

I’d rather a dog than a toddler tbh. Far more hygienic

Neither! ;-)

Nah I’ll stay on this one thanks.I don’t like kids in cafes .The point is the op doesn’t make the rules and neither do I. Cafe owners do.

Yeah it's your choice though. I don't think you'd love it if someone else's child blew snot all over yours. I just do not expect to come into contact and have to deal with other families fluids when I'm trying to relax and have paid for expensive food and coffees

We've had to take the dog into cafes before when we were on holiday and couldn't leave him in the accommodation. He is well behaved and we have experienced barks from yappy dogs that go right through my head. He just stays underneath the table, you wouldn't know he was there.

Can I bring my pet snake? My pet tarantula? Where does it end?

I agree with you all. I can't stand it either. People used to leave their dogs tied up outside - if only that were the still the case!

You can’t dictate what establishments offer. You’re not paying their bills and children carry and spread far more germs than dogs anyway.

I hate that argument. It shows you have no clue about the welfare of snakes or spiders
Neither need walks, and taking a snake out in the winter is stupid and neglectful.

I frequent a coffee shop that has dog friendliness as its USP and supports Guide Dogs, and I can honestly say that ai have never actually been bothered by a dog in there. They are usually quietly minding their own business.

I understand that. I was just trying to demonstrate that it’s not the end of the world if your child touches a dog or vice versa. It was lovely that you said your child enjoyed the interaction too.