Petition created to bring pups back to Ohio patios

The state recently sent a letter to food establishment owners, reminding them that allowing dogs on their patios is a health code violation. Well people don’t like it when their dogs are banned from places, especially Ohio dog owners. A petition has been started to revamp the policy for dogs on patios.

“The Ohio Department of Health says NO to animals on the premise of a food service operation or establishment (even outdoor patios) under the Ohio Uniform Food Safety Code Section 3717-1-6.4(O).

We say: Let the business owners choose whether or not to allow dogs on their patios!”

“We” as in all the Ohio residents who want to bring pooches back to their patios. It’s directed towards the Ohio Department of Health, José Rodríguez, and Franklin County Public Health. They argue that research shows healthy, vaccinated dogs on outdoor patios do not pose health or sanitary concerns (though no specific information is provided). But they make two other good points.

• Local shelters and rescues rely on “Pups on the Patio” events for adoptions and fundraising in order to keep saving homeless dogs.
• Dogs on patios drives consumerism and gives business owners access to a unique customer base.

In closing, they make their strongest argument yet.

“Dogs. Are. Important. Life. Companions.”

So far, there are 2,009 signatures on the petition. Here is a snapshot of the reasons people support the fight to bring their dogs back on patios.

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