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News & ArtsTuesday, December 23, 2008
City Dog Love
Posted by Charles Mudede on Tue, Dec 23, 2008 at 6:41 PM
I'm in a bar. I just ordered food. Next to my table, a person with a dog. Why do dog owners feel this need: to think their love for their dog is universal? Everyone must love this dog because I love this dog! Why can't they see their affection as something that is entirely personal?
1
It's a guide dog. Its owner plans to drink him/herself blind tonight. Please have some compassion.
5
Are they actually asking you to love it? Or are they just having a meal while their dog sits next to them?
9
I feel the same way about just about anything that catches my attention in cases where I'm really tired but not at home.
11
I agree with 3 & 4, but tying up your kids outside might generate some unwelcome attention. The dog, not so much, that's where it belongs, not in the fucking restaurant.
13
i was at the tea place on 15th, and the lady at the next table's giant dog jumped up and tried to eat our food. it was licking and sneezing and putting its dirty paws on our plates.
"how nice they let you bring your dog in here," said my friend.
"she's a service dog," said the retard that was trying to restrain her beast.
i'm sorry, but my kid does not do that.
"how nice they let you bring your dog in here," said my friend.
"she's a service dog," said the retard that was trying to restrain her beast.
i'm sorry, but my kid does not do that.
15
@7 - I don't think Charles meant that you have to love the dog, but you do have to accept it. You have to accept the dog's smell while you're trying to eat, and if the dog's not well trained (never a sure thing with other people's dogs), you have to accept and deal with the dog begging, whining, or sniffing at your crotch. In any event, you have to at least trust the dog, which is a lot to ask of strangers in a restaurant.
17
What's the deal with bars that allow dogs in Seattle? There are only a few that do so here, so, I would say, if you went to a bar that allows dogs, and are a known dog hater, then, well that was probably not the best decision.
If someone is generally not a considerate person, they are likely to be inconsiderate with regards to their dog as well. Assholes are not uncommon, dog owner or not.
If someone is generally not a considerate person, they are likely to be inconsiderate with regards to their dog as well. Assholes are not uncommon, dog owner or not.
18
No one eats out any more.
You can get SteamFresh vegetables from Birdseye in a pouch that go right in the Microwave and taste stellar.
I bought bread from the Ukrainian bakery at Valley Fresh for a couple of bucks that Seattle would slice into little pieces and make you pay $5 a bite.
I made lasagna from a recipe on the back of the Ronzoni box that would get me a 5 star rating at a Pike Place eatery.
Do I make myself clear?!
You can get SteamFresh vegetables from Birdseye in a pouch that go right in the Microwave and taste stellar.
I bought bread from the Ukrainian bakery at Valley Fresh for a couple of bucks that Seattle would slice into little pieces and make you pay $5 a bite.
I made lasagna from a recipe on the back of the Ronzoni box that would get me a 5 star rating at a Pike Place eatery.
Do I make myself clear?!
20
Oh look, all the self-important anti-children trolls are coming out. How nice that you shot out of your mom's vagina fully formed and polite. How kind of your parents to stay home and never take you anywhere.
21
Maybe you live in the wrong neighborhood. Is there a safe place for dog-hating, child-hating, non-breeders in this town? Or any town? (If so, I'd love to find it)
(FWIW, I always thought when I was a kid I'd grow up to be that cool guy that was super friendly to me... But fuck that, I can't stand kids.. They're so DUMB, and their parents are annoying as hell)
(FWIW, I always thought when I was a kid I'd grow up to be that cool guy that was super friendly to me... But fuck that, I can't stand kids.. They're so DUMB, and their parents are annoying as hell)
22
i haven't yet heard of an honest to goodness allergy to children, but dogs stop a lot of people from being able to breathe. of course, breathing is overrated if you have to chose between that and eating next to someone's wet dog.
Not everyone who needs to not be in the same room with dogs is a dog hater.
aren't there city ordinances about dogs in food places anyways?
Not everyone who needs to not be in the same room with dogs is a dog hater.
aren't there city ordinances about dogs in food places anyways?
23
Anybody can qualify their dog as a service dog. You just have to say (and get some doctor to agree, I guess) that the dog is important to your emotional well-being or something, and you can get a permit. You don't have to have a handicap - not an obvious one, anyway - and from what I've seen, your dog doesn't have to meet any standards of obedience or training.
Still, though, you could wait until the dog actually DOES something before complaining about it.
Still, though, you could wait until the dog actually DOES something before complaining about it.
28
I TAKE MY DOGS AND MY CHILDREN EVERYWHERE I GO.
AS MOMMA SAID, FREE COUNTRY. COPE. GET USED TO IT ALL YOU STERILE ROBOTS.
AS MOMMA SAID, FREE COUNTRY. COPE. GET USED TO IT ALL YOU STERILE ROBOTS.
29
@28, YOU ARE A SELFISH, SELF-CENTERED DOUCHEBAG.
AS MOMMA SAID, THE REST OF THE WORLD IS NOT YOUR LIVING ROOM.
AS MOMMA SAID, THE REST OF THE WORLD IS NOT YOUR LIVING ROOM.
30
@21 Cap Hill used to be great for child hating, but those days are gone. Now we must share the sidewalks with strollers and people in sensible shoes.
32
@30
And have you noticed that the damn strollers are the size of fucking SUVs? Heaven forbid you get in "Their" way. I don't blame the kids, it is the fucking parents who let them run wild and think that everyone should find it cute. And you want to bitch at me for bring my dog into a bar?
And have you noticed that the damn strollers are the size of fucking SUVs? Heaven forbid you get in "Their" way. I don't blame the kids, it is the fucking parents who let them run wild and think that everyone should find it cute. And you want to bitch at me for bring my dog into a bar?
33
My thinking is the dog brings the owner some personality and underscores a need for pack acceptance.
A bigger pet peeve are dogs at crowded events like Folklife. As if the dog is really into Blue Grass or legalizing marijuana etc.
A bigger pet peeve are dogs at crowded events like Folklife. As if the dog is really into Blue Grass or legalizing marijuana etc.
34
"How kind of your parents to stay home and never take you anywhere."
Well, they certainly didn't take me to bars when I was a child. And when they wanted to go to a "grown up restaurant", they hired a babysitter and left me at home.
You're welcome.
Well, they certainly didn't take me to bars when I was a child. And when they wanted to go to a "grown up restaurant", they hired a babysitter and left me at home.
You're welcome.
35
You've left out some crucial information I think... Did the dog or dog owner do something to earn your rant? or was the mere presence of the dog the offense? Without knowing, you kinda sound like a whiny little bitch...
just sayin..
just sayin..
36
If you were in Fremont you should know that Norm's Eatery & Alehouse encourages people to bring in their dogs. They cater to regulars in the neighborhood who often eat out several times a week and drink a lot of beer.
37
I don't mind kids in bars. The parents usually look so exhausted and *really* happy to have that beer/bloody mary, and it's not that much of an extra mess. (Most parents don't want to be in a bar when the kid's screaming, so they leave.) Also, I am not allergic to children, though I don't want any for myself. Even without the allergies, dogs smell terrible, and it's a huge turn-off for people coming into the bar to eat something.
And what is up with people in this town not believing that other people have dog allergies? One person even witnessed my sneezing/wheezing fit and said "wow, I always thought you just didn't like dogs and were lying about the allergies." Thanks.
And what is up with people in this town not believing that other people have dog allergies? One person even witnessed my sneezing/wheezing fit and said "wow, I always thought you just didn't like dogs and were lying about the allergies." Thanks.
38
It might be worth remembering that children are people, the only species that uses restaurants, and dogs are not.
39
Simple: Create a federal agency, the US Department of Giving a Shit About What Annoys Broke, Childless Twentysomethings Who Never Vote. Without cabinet-level representation, how can those childless non-voters with no money get the level of attention and concern their non-voting, economically irrelevant, community-alienated lifestyle truly deserves?
40
I'm fine, man. You got your little water bowl and go ahead and wag your tail all you want. Just don't keep sitting there looking over non-stop and giving me the apparently unretractable oscar meyer parsnip.
43
Isn't this a scene out of "A Christmas Carol" where Scrooge yells at the poor orphan boy and his dog for daring to interrupt him as he dines out on a bowl of gruel.
44
People that love dogs find a great comfort and reward in their companionship. People that take their children out are trying to expose them to social situations so that they grow up well adjusted, tolerant and happy. Forgive them their inconveniences.
I think we may agree that there is not enough love in the world. Let's treat each other with tolerance, patients and respect. That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.
I think we may agree that there is not enough love in the world. Let's treat each other with tolerance, patients and respect. That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.
46
I have two cats and when I invite someone new to my home, I about allergies and dislikes. If I’m told upfront there’s an issue, the cats go in my bedroom for the evening, end of story. I also realize that some people won’t admit there’s a problem out of politeness, so if I sense he or she doesn’t really care for cats after all, I just announce that the cats might be happier away from our noise and into the bedroom they go. And I love my cats. I love ‘em. But I put guests first, always.
I have NEVER had anyone with a dog or dogs extend the same courtesy to me, EVER.
In fact, I used to hire myself out to cater parties in people’s homes and I actually had to write and enforce a "family dogs must be kept out of the kitchen during food preparation" agreement after an early client let her huge dog tail me in the kitchen all night, where he tried to grab food off the cutting boards and platters and blocked my path to and from the ovens. Of course I asked to have him taken to another room so that I could cook safely and was refused because it might upset him. “He lives here! This is his house!”, she protested.
I shudder to think of how much dog slobber that family and its guests must have ingested over the years.
Charles is absolutely right. Some dog owners (and it’s always DOG owners, at least in my experience, never cat, horse, bird, rat owners) cannot accept or even fathom that their dear, dear canine child might also be, as viewed by another human being, just a barking, drooling, stinking, growling, sniffing, scratching, pawing, shedding, peeing, rampaging, shockingly unlovely creature and nothing more.
I have NEVER had anyone with a dog or dogs extend the same courtesy to me, EVER.
In fact, I used to hire myself out to cater parties in people’s homes and I actually had to write and enforce a "family dogs must be kept out of the kitchen during food preparation" agreement after an early client let her huge dog tail me in the kitchen all night, where he tried to grab food off the cutting boards and platters and blocked my path to and from the ovens. Of course I asked to have him taken to another room so that I could cook safely and was refused because it might upset him. “He lives here! This is his house!”, she protested.
I shudder to think of how much dog slobber that family and its guests must have ingested over the years.
Charles is absolutely right. Some dog owners (and it’s always DOG owners, at least in my experience, never cat, horse, bird, rat owners) cannot accept or even fathom that their dear, dear canine child might also be, as viewed by another human being, just a barking, drooling, stinking, growling, sniffing, scratching, pawing, shedding, peeing, rampaging, shockingly unlovely creature and nothing more.
47
I'm going to buy a beehive, and take my "pets" with me everywhere.
"WHAT'S THAT? I CAN'T HEAR YOU OVER THE BUZZING OF MY PETS. THEY'RE MY BEST FRIENDS! HEY, WHY ARE YOU SWELLING UP?"
"WANT SOME HONEY?"
"WHAT'S THAT? I CAN'T HEAR YOU OVER THE BUZZING OF MY PETS. THEY'RE MY BEST FRIENDS! HEY, WHY ARE YOU SWELLING UP?"
"WANT SOME HONEY?"
48
I don't want you to love my dog. I don't even ask that you like her. I don't take her places with me because I'm trying to help her make friends. I take her because she's my dog and I like having her around.
Get over it.
Get over it.
50
If I'm eating somewhere with my dog, then in addition to affording me simple companionship, he serves as a useful filter: open, friendly people come and say hello; spiteful narcissists stay away. Priceless.
If you don't want to experience anything of the real world while you eat, get a TV dinner and sit at home.
If you don't want to experience anything of the real world while you eat, get a TV dinner and sit at home.
51
A few years ago, garage sale. I'm sitting in the sun with my grandmother, waiting for customers to buy our stuff.
A woman with her dog on a leash comes walking towards the house. It's a warm, lazy day and I'm talking to grandmother and I fail to notice that, as they draw near, the dog wants to check me out so the woman allows him to walk up to me and he SLIMES me, leaving a sticky trail of snot/slobber. His fur smells. His breath smells. He paws are on my bare knees and the nails are sharp. I find his face ugly and mean.
I jump back, startled and emit a little cry of surprise and disgust. The woman laughs and consoles the dog.
"Oh, sorry she startled you darling. I just forget sometimes that everyone doesn't love you as much as I do".
They leave and I have to change my nasty shorts.
THAT'S the type of dog-owner I was railing against up above. If she'd kept it away from us (and better yet, picked up the dogshit she allowed it to deposit in the driveway as they walked away), I'd've had no problems with her bringing her pet to our sale.
(Sadly, the above tale and its dialogue are 100% true. When you're exclusively a cat person, events like that stay with you forever.)
A woman with her dog on a leash comes walking towards the house. It's a warm, lazy day and I'm talking to grandmother and I fail to notice that, as they draw near, the dog wants to check me out so the woman allows him to walk up to me and he SLIMES me, leaving a sticky trail of snot/slobber. His fur smells. His breath smells. He paws are on my bare knees and the nails are sharp. I find his face ugly and mean.
I jump back, startled and emit a little cry of surprise and disgust. The woman laughs and consoles the dog.
"Oh, sorry she startled you darling. I just forget sometimes that everyone doesn't love you as much as I do".
They leave and I have to change my nasty shorts.
THAT'S the type of dog-owner I was railing against up above. If she'd kept it away from us (and better yet, picked up the dogshit she allowed it to deposit in the driveway as they walked away), I'd've had no problems with her bringing her pet to our sale.
(Sadly, the above tale and its dialogue are 100% true. When you're exclusively a cat person, events like that stay with you forever.)
52
I was at an unnamed restaurant last nite and a guy came for take-out. He left his GIANT poodle type dog tied right next to the entrance. The dog proceeds to JUMP UP on to the door and yap incessantly while the guy casually puts in his order and waits inside. The dog is going nuts and people who try to come in look unnerved as they try to get in without letting the dog into the place. The owner barely made any effort to get his fucking dog under control.
53
As a general rule people that treat their dogs like this have never had children and don't realize how immature they look to people that have real kids. It is like walking around with a stuffed animal or doll and proudly calling it your kid. Once they have children they realize how much in life they have been missing but it is hard to explain to someone who is childless and refuses to comprehend. Treating a dog like a child is actually disrespectful to “real” children.
54
Children are human, albeit small and inexperienced ones. Dogs are not humans and thus not the intended demographic for any place where food is prepared and served. Also, on a selfish note, they make my eyes swell shut and my throat close, which kids don't, so I want them far away from any occasion on which I need to see, speak, eat, or breathe.
55
Chuck, you probably own "The Butterfly Effect" on DVD and watch the dog burn scene over and over, don't you...
By the way, Redwood's a great place to find bar skanks.
By the way, Redwood's a great place to find bar skanks.
56
"Why do dog owners feel this need: to think their love for their dog is universal?"
I think this is Charles' mistake. Dog owners don't need that others love their chosen pet. They just ignore you, Mr. Mudede, and that is enough.
I think this is Charles' mistake. Dog owners don't need that others love their chosen pet. They just ignore you, Mr. Mudede, and that is enough.
57
I hate people like Bill who think that people who don't have children are inferior. I chose not to have children - that doesn't mean I'm lacking humanity or that my life is less valid than yours.
You're offended on behalf of children by the way people treat their dogs? You're a fucking idiot.
You're offended on behalf of children by the way people treat their dogs? You're a fucking idiot.
58
Judy@22: Sure, there is probably an ordinance about dogs in restaurants, in the same book of ordinances that requires all businesses and homeowners to shovel their sidewalks. When you're finished shoveling we can discuss allergies and how my right to breathe air free of allergens is more important than any restaurant's right to serve peanuts (like Redwood) or allow other patrons to wear scented deodorants and perfume.
If you're allergic to dogs, choose one of the 99.9% of restaurants that don't allow pets inside.
If you're allergic to dogs, choose one of the 99.9% of restaurants that don't allow pets inside.
59
Amen, Jen (#57)! How much do dogs contribute to pollution, overcrowding, climate change, etc.? Pretty much nada. But anyone honestly interested in these issues is forced to admit that the most socially responsible thing a Westerner can do is not breed. Nonetheless, people continue to think it's their duty to keep shitting out the little fuckers - after all, there's never enough people, right? Maybe the Bill W.'s of the world don't realize how pathetic THEY look to some of us, cooing over their little "miracles", confident that what the world needs is another replica of themselves. Anyway....I'm ranting, aren't I? Sorry about that.
I make a valid point, but really I'm just justifying my own dislike of kids. They suck. They're not special. They're not interesting. They're messy, loud, and annoying. Keep them at home, under lock and key, till they're 20 or so. Thanks, breeders!
Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong. (Wouldn't it be nice if more posts ended like that?)
Snuggles for the doggies! And the kitties! Dirty looks for the ugly babies and toddlers! Hooray!....I"m overtired....
I make a valid point, but really I'm just justifying my own dislike of kids. They suck. They're not special. They're not interesting. They're messy, loud, and annoying. Keep them at home, under lock and key, till they're 20 or so. Thanks, breeders!
Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong. (Wouldn't it be nice if more posts ended like that?)
Snuggles for the doggies! And the kitties! Dirty looks for the ugly babies and toddlers! Hooray!....I"m overtired....
62
Well, I'm not saying I hate all kids. Some of them are all right. I just hate parents who think that anyone who doesn't have kids owes them something.
64
Charles, if you love the dog, order the dog. If you don't, then order something else. Or go somewhere that doesn't serve dog. Simple.
65
My two dogs (blue heelers) have more personality than any of my friends little shit kids. And that's a fact.
Fuck you dog haters. Go back to California...
Fuck you dog haters. Go back to California...
66
It's just shocking that there are so many inconsiderate people in this world. Really. I'm shocked by this.
Dogs, cats, and kids (and cars, bikes, etc.) are just tools for people to show whether they are inconsiderate or not. Considerate people put their dog/cat away when people who don't like dogs/cats come over and don't let them approach random strangers whose preferences/allergies are unknown. Considerate also don't let their kids run around screaming in restaurants, stores, etc.
There are lots of assholes and non-assholes out there... my guess is that your perception of whether one type of person (dog owner, kid-haver) is more inconsiderate than another is colored by your own like or dislike of dogs/kids/cats.
Dogs, cats, and kids (and cars, bikes, etc.) are just tools for people to show whether they are inconsiderate or not. Considerate people put their dog/cat away when people who don't like dogs/cats come over and don't let them approach random strangers whose preferences/allergies are unknown. Considerate also don't let their kids run around screaming in restaurants, stores, etc.
There are lots of assholes and non-assholes out there... my guess is that your perception of whether one type of person (dog owner, kid-haver) is more inconsiderate than another is colored by your own like or dislike of dogs/kids/cats.
67
Charles, do you feel this way about dogs because you were the only person to ever have been rejected by a dog?
68
I wonder if that clueless dog owner was the same self-appointed center of the universe who Savage photographed driving on the sidewalk last night.
69
Julie @66: "Considerate people put their dog/cat away when people who don't like dogs/cats come over and don't let them approach random strangers whose preferences/allergies are unknown."
2nd half=true, absolutely. 1st half--well, if you're coming over to my house, you know what you're in for. I have friends who are allergic to dogs, and I go to their houses or we meet somewhere else. Luckily most of my friends are dog lovers (in other words, they have 3 or 4 of their own dogs at home, and I know what I'm in for if I go to THEIR houses).
2nd half=true, absolutely. 1st half--well, if you're coming over to my house, you know what you're in for. I have friends who are allergic to dogs, and I go to their houses or we meet somewhere else. Luckily most of my friends are dog lovers (in other words, they have 3 or 4 of their own dogs at home, and I know what I'm in for if I go to THEIR houses).
71
Nora - I tend to think of it more as I am the hostess when I have people come over, so I should be concerned with making sure my guests are happy. But, the only person I know who really doesn't like dogs is my sister-in-law, so it's not that big of a deal for me to put the dog in the bedroom when she comes over. With most of my other friends, I think my dog is half the reason they come over anyways.
73
Here's the great thing about the free market: if you go to a restaurant that has kids/dogs and it offends you, mention it to the proprietor and say "just so you know, I'm not going to come here anymore." Then said proprietor can weigh the concerns of people like you against those of the dog/child owners. Some will choose one way, others the other (bars can take down the rail between the bar and eating areas and- voila- no kids!.) Unless the Legislature were to somehow pass a bill to *require* restaurants to accept dogs, it will all work itself out in the end.
I, as a parent with two kids, am firmly aware of which joints are "kid-friendly" and plan accordingly. Fortunately for me and my brood, I live in Issaquah where folks like me are common and cranky singletons are few and far between.
elenchos@39- I believe you have perfected this meme, and think it deserves its own blog- sort of an "altaSLOG."
I, as a parent with two kids, am firmly aware of which joints are "kid-friendly" and plan accordingly. Fortunately for me and my brood, I live in Issaquah where folks like me are common and cranky singletons are few and far between.
elenchos@39- I believe you have perfected this meme, and think it deserves its own blog- sort of an "altaSLOG."
75
I am not allergic to dogs or cats, and in fact I like them very much. And they seem to like me as well. There have been numerous times I have heard "Wow, he usually barks at strangers" or "She usually hides under the bed when we have people over". Maybe animals instinctively know I like them, generally, better than I like people.
Pet owners are not necessarily assholes. If your dog is well behaved, I am happy to make friends with him/her and may even enjoy coming to your house more because I like your pet. But if the little beast is jumping on me, slobbering all over my pants, or trying to implant its nose into my crotch there's a problem. I don't blame the dog--the dog is just being a dog, that's what they do. But if you don't notice by my body language, i.e. backing away or trying to redirect the dog's attention away from my balls by having it sniff my hand instead, that your dog's behavior is annoying, that's either clueless or rude.
Dogs, and children for that matter, can be delightful to be around if you as the owner or parent put the effort into training them properly. But if you let them run wildly around like maniacs or shriek like banshees or invade conversations of bystanders by saying Hi every five seconds (literally with children, metaphorically with dogs), then maybe you shouldn't have them.
Pet owners are not necessarily assholes. If your dog is well behaved, I am happy to make friends with him/her and may even enjoy coming to your house more because I like your pet. But if the little beast is jumping on me, slobbering all over my pants, or trying to implant its nose into my crotch there's a problem. I don't blame the dog--the dog is just being a dog, that's what they do. But if you don't notice by my body language, i.e. backing away or trying to redirect the dog's attention away from my balls by having it sniff my hand instead, that your dog's behavior is annoying, that's either clueless or rude.
Dogs, and children for that matter, can be delightful to be around if you as the owner or parent put the effort into training them properly. But if you let them run wildly around like maniacs or shriek like banshees or invade conversations of bystanders by saying Hi every five seconds (literally with children, metaphorically with dogs), then maybe you shouldn't have them.
76
I grew up w/ dogs and other pets all my life. My Dad raised black labs as his hunting dogs. And yes, they were his closest companions. He took them everywhere with him that involved large open fields, woods, lakes, or rivers. But he would never have fathomed bringing them into a restaurant- a bar, maybe maybe maybe, but if folks ate there, no way. Why? Because they are DOGS; smelly, slobbery, intrusive creatures (at least bigger breeds?) and they have been bred be such- they want to sniff, run, explore, and eat anything they come across.
I feel bad for most big (and small) dogs in the city. Most are supposed to have the space to run and explore. A daily walk does not cut it, nor does dragging them into a restaurant to sit in a booth next to their owner (or wander amok) for the sake of companionship.
I feel bad for most big (and small) dogs in the city. Most are supposed to have the space to run and explore. A daily walk does not cut it, nor does dragging them into a restaurant to sit in a booth next to their owner (or wander amok) for the sake of companionship.
77
Now that I know it's the Redwood Charles where was drinking, I no longer feel any sympathy for having to see a dog. It's not a restaurant. It's a bar. With peanut shells all over and really cheap booze.
It's not Oceanaire or something like that.
Full disclosure: I have taken my dog occasionally to a bar (Summit), but same as with responsible parents, if she acts up, I leave.
It's not Oceanaire or something like that.
Full disclosure: I have taken my dog occasionally to a bar (Summit), but same as with responsible parents, if she acts up, I leave.
78
woah. lots of comments. i guess no one will read mine. dogs in restaurants annoy me because you can smell them. and they -- the dogs -- often try to smell me. the owner will often just smile, or say in response to my alarmed look, "it's okay, he doesn't bite." and every time i've said, "please keep your dog away from me" i get treated like i'm the jerk.
just keep your dog away from me. i don't want a dog sniffing my crotch. i don't want your dog pawing at me. and i don't want to smell your dog as i eat.
just keep your dog away from me. i don't want a dog sniffing my crotch. i don't want your dog pawing at me. and i don't want to smell your dog as i eat.
79
It's my right to go to any place I choose, in my underwear or pajamas, with my dog, chameleon and cat, and not comb my hair or brush my teeth, and sit and fart all that I want, and play movies on my laptop and any volume I like, and hack up loogies into a coffee cup, or spit chew into my glass, and yell into my cell phone, and let my screaming children run circles around you. It's a free country. If you don't like it, leave.
80
The people who bring their dogs into bars are a self-selecting set: The people who, of their own accord, decide that the law against bringing dogs into places that serve food doesn't apply to them. I've noticed this subset of people tend to be much more likely to have poorly-behaved, unsupervised animals. Considerate pet owners, the kind with well-behaved pets, are less likely to bring their dogs where they aren't allowed in the first place.
If places are going to engage in selective enforcement of the law which says that dogs aren't allowed in their places of business, there should be a "dogs which can't behave according to the same rules humans must follow -- no barking, no begging, no leg-humping, no crotch-sniffing -- will be asked to leave" clause. The bonus is that since asshole dogs usually have asshole owners, two assholes get eighty-sixed for the price of one.
If places are going to engage in selective enforcement of the law which says that dogs aren't allowed in their places of business, there should be a "dogs which can't behave according to the same rules humans must follow -- no barking, no begging, no leg-humping, no crotch-sniffing -- will be asked to leave" clause. The bonus is that since asshole dogs usually have asshole owners, two assholes get eighty-sixed for the price of one.
81
We're pretty lax with our dogs when they're at home, but we put 'em away when we're eating with guests and would never take them to a restaurant.
One of many advantages of dogs over children -- they don't need a babysitter.
One of many advantages of dogs over children -- they don't need a babysitter.
82
"Why do dog owners feel this need: to think their love for their dog is universal? Everyone must love this dog because I love this dog! Why can't they see their affection as something that is entirely personal?"
Because these people are self-absorbed morons, that's why...
Because these people are self-absorbed morons, that's why...
83
6-501.115 Prohibiting Animals.
(A) Except as specified in ¶¶ (B) and (C) of this section, live animals may not be allowed on the PREMISES
of a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT.
(B) Live animals may be allowed in the following situations if the contamination of FOOD; clean EQUIPMENT,
UTENSILS, and LINENS; and unwrapped SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES can not result:
(1) Edible FISH or decorative FISH in aquariums, shellfish or crustacea on ice or under refrigeration,
and shellfish and crustacea in display tank systems;
(2) Patrol dogs accompanying police or security officers in offices and dining, sales, and storage
areas, and sentry dogs running loose in outside fenced areas;
(3) In areas that are not used for FOOD preparation and that are usually open for customers, such as
dining and sales areas, SERVICE ANIMALS that are controlled by the disabled EMPLOYEE or PERSON, if a
health or safety HAZARD will not result from the presence or activities of the SERVICE ANIMAL;
(4) Pets in the common dining areas of institutional care facilities such as nursing homes, assisted
living facilities, group homes, or residential care facilities at times other than during meals if:
(a) Effective partitioning and self-closing doors separate the common dining areas from FOOD
storage or FOOD preparation areas,
(b) Condiments, EQUIPMENT, and UTENSILS are stored in enclosed cabinets or removed from the
common dining areas when pets are present, and
(c) Dining areas including tables, countertops, and similar surfaces are effectively cleaned before
the next meal service; and
(5) In areas that are not used for FOOD preparation, storage, sales, display, or dining, in which there
are caged animals or animals that are similarly confined, such as in a variety store that sells pets or a
tourist park that displays animals.
(C) Live or dead FISH bait may be stored if contamination of FOOD; clean EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, and LINENS;
and unwrapped SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES can not result.
More...
(A) Except as specified in ¶¶ (B) and (C) of this section, live animals may not be allowed on the PREMISES
of a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT.
(B) Live animals may be allowed in the following situations if the contamination of FOOD; clean EQUIPMENT,
UTENSILS, and LINENS; and unwrapped SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES can not result:
(1) Edible FISH or decorative FISH in aquariums, shellfish or crustacea on ice or under refrigeration,
and shellfish and crustacea in display tank systems;
(2) Patrol dogs accompanying police or security officers in offices and dining, sales, and storage
areas, and sentry dogs running loose in outside fenced areas;
(3) In areas that are not used for FOOD preparation and that are usually open for customers, such as
dining and sales areas, SERVICE ANIMALS that are controlled by the disabled EMPLOYEE or PERSON, if a
health or safety HAZARD will not result from the presence or activities of the SERVICE ANIMAL;
(4) Pets in the common dining areas of institutional care facilities such as nursing homes, assisted
living facilities, group homes, or residential care facilities at times other than during meals if:
(a) Effective partitioning and self-closing doors separate the common dining areas from FOOD
storage or FOOD preparation areas,
(b) Condiments, EQUIPMENT, and UTENSILS are stored in enclosed cabinets or removed from the
common dining areas when pets are present, and
(c) Dining areas including tables, countertops, and similar surfaces are effectively cleaned before
the next meal service; and
(5) In areas that are not used for FOOD preparation, storage, sales, display, or dining, in which there
are caged animals or animals that are similarly confined, such as in a variety store that sells pets or a
tourist park that displays animals.
(C) Live or dead FISH bait may be stored if contamination of FOOD; clean EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, and LINENS;
and unwrapped SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES can not result.
84
Fuck you Washington State Health Code! You should be exiled to France, where dogs are allowed in restaurants, stores and trains. Sixty million Frenchmen can't be wrong, unlike you, asshole.
85
Seven days stuck in my house, reading the slog. Its starting to make me squirrely. After reading all 84 comments in this thread I have decided that I would be more than happy if an asteroid hits Seattle and kills all of you people.
88
SORRY!! I meant to paraphrase: I'm at a bar. I just ordered food. Next to my table, a person with a child. Why do (parents) feel this need: to think their love for their child is universal? Everyone must love this child because I love this child! Why can't they see their affection as something that is entirely personal?
89
Fuck you Mud Baby! You should be exiled to France, where dogs are allowed in restaurants, stores and trains, and where a pack of French dogs might rip you to shreds.
90
@88, because Americans for the past two generations have been raised to believe that they are the most important person on the face of the earth, that they can do no wrong, that they have the right to do whatever they want to do, whenever they want to do it, and that their personal whims or ego supersede the entirety of society. The natural outcome of this is to bring a screaming, awful, misbehaving child everywhere they go, and not give a shit about anyone else, no matter how much your child might act out. I've also noticed a trend in American parenting - parents allow their children to do whatever, whenever. No guidance, no discipline, no restraint. "Want to run circles around a table in a restaurant? Great! Want to scream and shout on a bus? Super! Run wild through a department store like a wild animal? Awesome! Oh, and look how adorable my perfect little angel is!"
I always marvel at how different the child-parent relationship is in other countries. I've been on extended trips in Europe, Asia, South America and Russia, and am always surprised at how well-behaved children are. Sure, there is always the odd brat here or there, but for the most part I see that parents can bring their children with them to restaurants, cafes, museums, public squares, etc., and the children are actually capable of acting politely, and expected to do so by their parents or caretaker.
Not so in the jolly ol' USA, where the whim and ego of the individual reigns supreme, and children should be able to do whatever they want, and if you don't like it, well fuck you.
I always marvel at how different the child-parent relationship is in other countries. I've been on extended trips in Europe, Asia, South America and Russia, and am always surprised at how well-behaved children are. Sure, there is always the odd brat here or there, but for the most part I see that parents can bring their children with them to restaurants, cafes, museums, public squares, etc., and the children are actually capable of acting politely, and expected to do so by their parents or caretaker.
Not so in the jolly ol' USA, where the whim and ego of the individual reigns supreme, and children should be able to do whatever they want, and if you don't like it, well fuck you.
91
@88
Why the fuck is a child allowed in a bar? Bars are meant to be for adults only - parents, next time go to Chucky Cheese and leave the bars to the grown ups (oh, and their dogs.)
Why the fuck is a child allowed in a bar? Bars are meant to be for adults only - parents, next time go to Chucky Cheese and leave the bars to the grown ups (oh, and their dogs.)
94
My dog would like to meet you Charles. And pee on your shoe. Oh hell.....I'd like to pee on your shoes too........
95
Children should be like dogs at that restaurant I went to in Pyongyang... braised, stewed, barbecued and eaten, but never seen or heard.
96
@84 Mud-Baby: what may be surprising to most people is that the laws about dogs in restaurants/shops/trains are pretty much the same across Europe (even in the UK), although individual management may choose to prohibit dogs, children, whatever.
On the whole I find that dogs and children behave better in eating establishments in Europe than in the US: there's just a more convivial atmosphere. Parents/owners are more prepared to act responsibly.
From what I can see from many posters here, eating in a public place means "taking my private space and all my intolerances into a public venue and then if anything bothers me, to whine in a passive aggressive manner." Chances are that if I have to move/avoid a public eating place it's because of smokers, unwashed or over-deodorised humans, but that's a risk you take being born as a human being on this planet.
Humans and dogs have been companions for over 10,000 years. Frankly I don't know how they put up with us.
On the whole I find that dogs and children behave better in eating establishments in Europe than in the US: there's just a more convivial atmosphere. Parents/owners are more prepared to act responsibly.
From what I can see from many posters here, eating in a public place means "taking my private space and all my intolerances into a public venue and then if anything bothers me, to whine in a passive aggressive manner." Chances are that if I have to move/avoid a public eating place it's because of smokers, unwashed or over-deodorised humans, but that's a risk you take being born as a human being on this planet.
Humans and dogs have been companions for over 10,000 years. Frankly I don't know how they put up with us.
97
I'm surprised there were 26 comments before the dreaded pitbull was mentioned.
@33: my dog is into legalizing grass (but not a huge fan of bluegrass).
@44: aw!
@33: my dog is into legalizing grass (but not a huge fan of bluegrass).
@44: aw!
99
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100
my neighbors leave their dog at home where it whines and barks and yelps for hours until they finally come home... it's deeply depressing... i hope when they have a child they treat it the same way...
102
service dogs go thru rigorous training and their owners as well, in order to get the certification for being a service dog. Those dogs do not jump on people, take or go after food from strangers, and their peoples know that they're tasked with keeping their dogs clean and respectable in public. If you're observing otherwise and the owner is claiming "service dog" call them on their bullshit, they're expected to keep their certification on hand, if they cant produce it then they're lying.
103
I'm a cat person, but I like dogs. Pitbulls, however, scare the crap out of me.
Noisy, slobbery, hyperactive, wandering all over the place children are a serious drag in restaurants and bars (I've seen kids at Pies n' Pints at 10:00pm, although to be fair they were very well behaved).
I think this is an issue of personal entitlement, which is inflated to the extreme in Americans.
If we're going to have people acting out their individual, overdeveloped senses of entitlement then it would be nice to have restaurants and bars designated child-free, child-friendly, dog-free, dog-friendly, etc.. That way everybody can relax.
If there were a child-free restaurant I'd go there all the time. It would be really nice to know that after working hard all week I could go to a restaurant w/out having to endure the dental drill whining of a bored toddler (really, they should have places where they can run and not drive everybody else nuts).
I could probably deal w/ a dog-friendly restaurant but for the possibility of a pitbull showing up.
All that said, it is really annoying when people expect you to adore their dog or child when the being in question is really obnoxious. Yeah, part of sharing space w/ others means putting up w/ some of their bullshit, but it also means containing some of your own.
Noisy, slobbery, hyperactive, wandering all over the place children are a serious drag in restaurants and bars (I've seen kids at Pies n' Pints at 10:00pm, although to be fair they were very well behaved).
I think this is an issue of personal entitlement, which is inflated to the extreme in Americans.
If we're going to have people acting out their individual, overdeveloped senses of entitlement then it would be nice to have restaurants and bars designated child-free, child-friendly, dog-free, dog-friendly, etc.. That way everybody can relax.
If there were a child-free restaurant I'd go there all the time. It would be really nice to know that after working hard all week I could go to a restaurant w/out having to endure the dental drill whining of a bored toddler (really, they should have places where they can run and not drive everybody else nuts).
I could probably deal w/ a dog-friendly restaurant but for the possibility of a pitbull showing up.
All that said, it is really annoying when people expect you to adore their dog or child when the being in question is really obnoxious. Yeah, part of sharing space w/ others means putting up w/ some of their bullshit, but it also means containing some of your own.
105
I'm hanging around that same old scene
My girlfriend Betsy she's just fourteen
There's nothing better for me to do
I'm living on dog food
Dog food is so good for you
It makes you strong and clever too
Dog food is a current craze
Eat some every day
I chew up my "Sunday Mirror"
I read about the rich I fear
Dog food is my whole life
Dog food composes my wife
Yum yum yum - Woof woof woof - Arf arf
My girlfriend Betsy she's just fourteen
There's nothing better for me to do
I'm living on dog food
Dog food is so good for you
It makes you strong and clever too
Dog food is a current craze
Eat some every day
I chew up my "Sunday Mirror"
I read about the rich I fear
Dog food is my whole life
Dog food composes my wife
Yum yum yum - Woof woof woof - Arf arf
106
To answer the question: perhaps the dog owner did not want his dog to freeze outside? perhaps it was a calm & sweet dog just sitting under the table. So there. Anyway, what are you doing at a restaurant, Charles? Shouldn't you be writing a terrible review of something or other using a thesaurus and a blindfold?
107
you are an idiot. Why is it that you felt compelled to write such crap? The guy took his dog with him,big deal! You decided to go... does that mean that everyone who sat next to you has to love you because you obviously do?
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