KAWARTHA LAKES-Are dogs allowed on local restaurant patios or not? It seems to depend on who you talk to.
A few weeks ago we received an email from Heather Storey the owner of Murphy’s Lockside Pub in Fenelon Falls. She was angry about the ever increasing number of “inspections” her business was subjected to and the demands to place “No Smoking/No Vaping” signs in numerous locations at ther business. Storey also said she was losing business because she couldn’t allow dogs on her patio, unless they were “service dogs”.
Adam Matthews who owns 72 Bolton Sports Cafe in Bobcaygeon said he was having the same issue but called the Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR)and was told it was ok.
Kawartha 411 sent emails to the Health Unit and the Ministry of Health asking for clarification on the laws governing dogs on patios.
“In the Health Unit’s view, it is up to an individual business/restaurant owner to decide if pets (like a dog) are allowed on their outdoor patio. However, animals are not allowed inside a food premise/restaurant unless they are registered service animals.” said Pam Stuckless, Director of Health Promotion, HKPR.
But here’s what the Ministry said.
“Public health legislation seeks to protect the health and safety of Ontarians. Food premise operators must comply with Ontario Regulation 493/17 (Food Premises) under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.” says David Jensen, MOHLTC, “The regulation requires, with some exceptions, that every room where food is prepared, processed, packaged, served, transported, manufactured, handled, sold, offered for sale or displayed shall be kept free from live birds or animals. Exceptions to this requirement include service animals, where food is served, sold or offered for sale.”
It’s unclear what this means for local business owners.
Storey says there needs to be more public awareness and a clarification of the rules. “A public awareness campaign needs to be more of a spotlight. That would be helpful.”
“The government is reviewing all legislation and regulations put into place under the previous administration to ease the burden on business owners and ensure that Ontario is open for business and open for jobs.” said Jensen.
 photo credit: Neil. Moralee It’s a dogs breakfast. via photopin (license)