Last month, the Alberta government made it easier for restaurant-, bar-, and coffee shop-owners to welcome customers’ dogs on their patios without first obtaining approval from Alberta Health Services (AHS).
An Alberta government press release issued on May 26, stated effective immediately, the province is making it easier for local establishments to offer dog-friendly outdoor dining options, no longer requiring restaurants to obtain approval from a public health inspector to allow “pooches on patios.”
“Alberta’s change to the Food Regulation removes red tape for establishments that want to make outdoor dining easier for their dog-loving customers,” read the press statement.
According to the release, establishments are not required to offer dog-friendly patios, so patrons are encouraged to call ahead of time to make sure their furry friends are welcome. Also, the amendment in regulations applies to dogs only, and no other pets or animals.
Prior to this change in the Food Regulation, an operator of a food establishment was required to request authorization from AHS before allowing non-service dogs in outdoor eating areas and a public health inspector would assess the facility’s plan, the statement continued.
“Establishments will continue to ensure food safety standards for all customers," it read.
As such, non-service dogs are allowed on patios only and must not pass through any indoor food handling areas, such as dining or food preparation spaces. Customers must also keep their pets on a leash or in a carrier, always having physical control of the animal.
Service dogs will continue to be permitted in both indoor and outdoor dining areas, according to the government’s release.
Jason Copping, minister of health for the Government, said other jurisdictions have allowed dogs on patios without compromising food safety.
“This change is long overdue and will let AHS public health inspectors focus their efforts where they are needed most – supporting restaurants, providing advice and making sure public health requirements are followed,” Copping said in the release.
In Airdrie, several local restaurants and pubs have adopted pet-friendly patios, including Toad ‘n’ Turtle Pubhouse & Grill and Balzac Craft Brewing Company – both of whom welcomed pooches prior to the recent legislation changes.
Tabatha Brookshaw, manager of Toad ‘n’ Turtle, said the kitchen was situated far enough away from the entrance to allow dogs to travel through to the second-floor patio. Additionally the restaurant’s lower patio offered a separate entrance for people and their pooches.
“They don’t even have to come in through the building,” Brookshaw said. “So, pet-friendly patio is something we’ve had for numerous years now and has worked out great for us since we’ve been able to do that.”
According to Brookshaw, the recent changes to legislation haven’t increased the number of dogs seen at the pub’s patio, though she added they always get a “fair share of furry friends.”
Similarly, Stew Ward, founder of Balzac Craft Brewing Company, said as the establishment is a brewpub and doesn’t serve its own food, they were always able to welcome dogs, which has never posed an issue. He added he hasn’t seen an uptick since the legislation changes, as most of their regulars already know pets are welcome.
“A few people are just finding out now, but it’s sporadic,” he said. “They’re very welcome to bring the family in and dogs are included in the family.”
Ward said dog-friendly patios are common throughout Europe and the United Kingdom, and added he is happy to see Alberta catching on to the trend.
“I think we really need to come into the 21st century,” he said. “I see more and more places, especially here in Airdrie, are saying just bring the dog in – we don’t care.”
Dr. Laura McDougall, senior medical officer of health with AHS, said in the aforementioned press release, the health agency is supportive of dog-friendly patios as long as it is being done safely.
“We will continue to be available to restaurant owners and Albertans to provide guidance and support in the establishment and maintenance of dog-friendly patios as needed.”
