Wouldn’t it be nice to dine out with your Emotional Support dog after a long hike or play day? Stopping at an eatery on the way home could be the perfect way for you both to wind down.
Excellent idea, but restaurants are for humans, right? It seems obvious. How often have we seen faithful dogs waiting in the car for their humans to return from dinner? With their snout up to the cracked window, smiling or barking at passersby – they wait. Dogs are the quintessential tolerant and forgiving companions. So, they patiently wait while their owners eat dinner or tend to business.
It doesn’t seem fair – it’s almost rude. But times are changing – at least in 23 states.
Some States Allow ESA Dogs in Restaurants
Thanks to Rebecca Wisch at Michigan State University, we have learned that 23 states permit dogs to dine outside with their owners. That doesn’t mean dogs are allowed at every restaurant in these states. That’s up to the individual restaurant owners. But we now know that in 23 states, some restaurants are open for dog dining. In other words, these states have laws or regulations (often flanked with local ordinances) that allow you to enjoy dinner with your ESA dog.
Within those states, some restaurants will welcome your ESA. Just ask.
Dog Cuisine
Every dog dining facility is different. With some, you might bring your dog’s food with you while you order yours from the menu. Some restaurants have dog cuisine – with food appealing to the dog palate on the menu. (Ok, yes, we know that some ESA dog owners sneak food under the table. Just don’t break any rules.)
It’s a learn-as-you-go adventure that many dog owners have come to enjoy.
ESA Dog Dining Safety
Those restaurants that permit dog dining, of course, want to keep all customers safe by providing hygienic conditions. That means your ESA dog won’t be sitting on a chair, lapping up soup from a bowl on the table. And you won’t be taking your friend to the indoor restroom.
There are rules and provisions to keep things sanitary for everyone.
For example, restaurant employees might admire your ESA dog, but they aren’t going to pet her. They prepare and carry food for other customers. And the cooks and chefs have stringent standards. But restaurants that allow dogs will post the rules and make it as easy and enjoyable as possible.
Help keep things clean.
(We’re talking those little bags that you carry to the park with you.) And for the sake of all ESA dog owners, follow the local rules and regulations. We don’t want outdoor ESA dog dining to become unpopular.
And most importantly, Enjoy!
States that Allow You to Dine Out with ESA Dog
Alabama Illinois New Mexico South Carolina,
California Iowa New York Tennessee
Colorado Kentucky North Carolina Texas
Delaware Maryland Oklahoma Virginia
Florida Minnesota Ohio Washington
Georgia New Hampshire Rhode Island
Now you know which states make dog dining provisions. If your state isn’t on the list, you could email your local representative if you are so inclined. Politely mention that 23 states allow dogs in restaurants, and it would be good for your state to follow suit.
If you have pictures of you and your ESA dining at a restaurant, please email them to info@myesamd.com. If it’s OK to post them, let us know.
And if you still haven’t gotten your ESA dog letter, give us a call at 833-372-6311 .
