Pet-Friendly World - People UNfriendly?

[Medusa]

This might seem like an off-the-wall topic but I genuinely was wondering what other people's opinions were on this subject.

Jack and I have a big-n-pretty Golden Retriever. When she was a puppy, I took her to Petsmart and Petco several (hundred) times to socialize her. We also took her to the dog park, etc. We still take her public places even though she is now 80 pounds. :)

I know that pet stores tend to be friendly about bringing animals in the store and we also discovered a Barnes and Noble bookstore when we lived in California that was cool with bringing Gracie into the store (as long as she didn't go into the coffee shop area. Also in California, there were several cafes that had outdoor areas where Gracie could be.

Interestingly enough, Lowe's and Home Depot in the city where we are now also allow dogs in their stores as well as our local tractor supply place. I didn't know this about Lowe's and thought it was cool so I did a little checking around the net to see if it was a store-by-store policy or if it's systemwide. (It's store by store.)

During my search, I found a website where customers of various stores were complaining about people bringing dogs in with them. One particular person complained that she went to a Home Depot and that she became irritated seeing someone walk her Labrador around and that "dogs are nasty and belong at home".
There were other people who complained of being allergic to dogs and a Mother who was "horrified" that people put dogs in shopping carts because her kid had to sit in the shopping cart and "what about all the germs!"

Then there was a store clerk who said that she liked having dogs brought into the store because she had never had to clean up after a dog (unlike other people's children) and that she had never had a dog break merchandise (unlike other people's children).

My job is about to host a "bring your pet to work day" and someone has already started complaining that they are allergic to dogs.

Just wondering what are people's opinions on pets at work, pets at stores, etc.?

[Corkey]

My dog Corkey who passed several years ago use to go everywhere with me, I do mean everywhere. At the grocery store she would sit outside the doors, without a leash and wait for me to come out. I never had to leash her, (corgie and terrier mix). Hotels, not an issue, campgrounds no problem, boats, she loved the ride, surfing, she went along and hung 20, half were in me LOL. She even jumped into an outdoor hot springs, just to be with me. Couldn't take her to work, as there were forklifts and trucks, but she went everywhere else. People I can do without ( major exception of my Lady Love), her I miss.

[Selenay]

I have no real issue with it, provided that they are leashed and kept on the leash for the duration of the store visit.

However, I think that for a work environment, if someone truly is allergic, then precautions should be made for them (either keeping the pet in an area in which that person will not go, or by not bringing the pet at all). If someone has an illness, I think it's unfair to punish them so you can have your dog at work with you.

That being said, I don't want your dog, cat, chinchilla, potbelly pig or any other small critter in my restaurant or my supermarket--just a little too unsanitary for my personal comfort.

[Linus]

The allergy thing I can understand since some people may suffer from extreme reactions (asthma) so that I can understand and would respect. But the idea of germs and such... Quite honestly, I feel like society has gone overboard on the germ thing. We've gotten to the point where our bodies don't know how to react when faced with new germs and such.

If I find places that are extremely against pets in the store, I won't frequent them at all and will find those that do (even being puppy-less at this point). Compassion towards those who cannot speak directly to us means compassion for all of us.

[Daddislilgirl]

I work at Home Depot, and I absolutely LOVE when customers bring their dogs in. I could be having a shitty day, and just petting one of them calms me down. The kids on the other hand, belong shrink wrapped on a pallet and stuck in the overhead....they can scream there all they want.:eyebat:

Just my :2cents:

[bigbutchmistie]

Good topic :)

For me, I like taking my son, Simon everywhere I can. Ive taken him to the Dog Park, Taken him to the Pet Stores, and Sonic, and just about everywhere I can get by with it. I would even bring him to work if I could.

People are gonna complain no matter what...


If an animal has had proper training WHO CARES. People let their bad ass kids with NO training run rampant. Now, I do understand about not wanting them around resturaunts, or coffee shops. Because of all the "cleanliness" rules.

And I do respect people who have allergies...

And I agree with Linus about folks going overboard about germs.

[Medusa]

Just curious:

Do folks who feel like bringing pets to public places is a hardship on folks with allergies also feel that perfume and cologne-wearers should leave their scents at home?

The reason I ask is because the lady at my job who complained about "bring a dog to work day" also has asked that everyone in my unit stop wearing perfume and cologne and also asked the campus building supervisor change out the "smelly" soap and air fresheners in all the bathrooms.

[Andrew, Jr.]

I take Dino with me everywhere (same as Corkey). Dino goes with me every where from the grocery store, Home Depot, and all. The only places that refuses to allow Dino is my doctors office building and restaurants.

I can understand the allergy situation because I have allergies to both dogs and cats. And guess what? I have 1 dog and 3 cats! I wash them with Allerpet - C (for cats) and Allerpet D (for dogs). I am good for a month. The shampoo does something to the dander that the furkids have.

Some people are very rude towards me and Dino. Then a majority are just drawn to us. They see Dino in an outfit or a cute collar, and the next thing I know is that both men and women want to talk about him. Taking him thru a McDonald's drivethru for a plain hamburger is a treat for him and the staff there. They just love Dino. Heck, they have his photo on the wall. Talk about love. Once they heard about his start in life that was it.

I think in life, esp. now, we are seeing people ignore those who are injured, or disabled, and now pets. It is just society. That is what I chalk it up too. People always disappoint me. Always. Also, depending on where you live, some counties are scent free and smoke free. Why? Allergies. UGH!

[bigbutchmistie]

I work in a Design and Marketing Studio and we have two office dogs that belong to one of the designers, they are big lab mixes and everyone loves them. They are even featured prominently on our website! I have taken Jack (the one eyed dog) in before, and he's good, but we have a big garage door we open during the nice weather and I don't trust him not to wander away. The office dogs are so well behaved, they actually take themselves outside to visit the trees and then come back in. Dogs just make life better (unless you're allergic)

One ofd the things I love about traveling in Europe is seeing all the dogs walking off-leash with their people, even in major downtown areas I have yet to see a badly behaved one and I don't care if they are in restaurants and food shops, I mean, our dogs go in our kitchen!

Cats are another thing though, I don't want anything that can and will get up and walk on my counters and tables. Ick. Sorry, I know we have a lot of cat lovers, but it squicks me out to have them on the counters, especially.

AMEN sister :) I totally agree...

[Linus]

Just curious:

Do folks who feel like bringing pets to public places is a hardship on folks with allergies also feel that perfume and cologne-wearers should leave their scents at home?

The reason I ask is because the lady at my job who complained about "bring a dog to work day" also has asked that everyone in my unit stop wearing perfume and cologne and also asked the campus building supervisor change out the "smelly" soap and air fresheners in all the bathrooms.

Sounds like she has quite a few environmental "sensitivities" (allergies and hypersensitivity).

I guess I would view it as a hardship. I tend to be oversensitive about my cigar/pipe smoking and will ask first -- even K who loves it -- before lighting up. Even in a smoking area. It's easier for me to not doing it than for them to suffer, potentially severely, an immediate health risk. This is based on my own experience with a sudden, environmental asthma attack when one work place cleaned out their air units and it triggered a trip to the hospital for me (I couldn't breath and let me tell you, nothing is more scarier, IMO, than that)

[Linus]

Cats are another thing though, I don't want anything that can and will get up and walk on my counters and tables. Ick. Sorry, I know we have a lot of cat lovers, but it squicks me out to have them on the counters, especially.

I never let my cat(s) on the counter simply because our counters are often too small and I really dislike the smell of burnt whiskers (too much curiosity by some of these guys)

[Corkey]

Just curious:

Do folks who feel like bringing pets to public places is a hardship on folks with allergies also feel that perfume and cologne-wearers should leave their scents at home?

The reason I ask is because the lady at my job who complained about "bring a dog to work day" also has asked that everyone in my unit stop wearing perfume and cologne and also asked the campus building supervisor change out the "smelly" soap and air fresheners in all the bathrooms.

Some scents are just horrid, plane and simple, if someone is allergic to it I can see asking folks to tone it down, some soaps are just stinky, I don't want that stench on my hands, and will wash them with something else asap. If someone comes to our home we tend to vacuum first, but that wont get rid of the allergens, so forewarned, we have cat. She stays.

[Rockinonahigh]

I dont have a prob bringing a dog to work and did for a long time,old Dory was way better manerd than any person or kid around,corse I ran a horse traing barn so she was top dog on the place.I agree we should be mindful of ppl with allergis an asthma(wich I have but dogs dont bother me).The new fur kids I have now are well behaved and lots better than most kids I see,who imho should be left at home or taught some manners before being in public.My pet peve is going into a resturaunt and haveing kids who are disruptive to the other ppl there with mom and dad leting the little monsters run the show.As for ppl who were sents..omg...the saying a little dab will do ya is right,yesterday I was at a local casino and someone sat next to me that stank so bad with layers of some skinky stuff that I nearly gaged..how bout takeing a bath for goodness sake..use some deoderant too as well as brushing there teeth..sick stuff if they dont.

[Jett]

I love seeing peoples pups in the stores. My gf a manager at a pet friendly store and she often comes home talking about the little fur balls that brightened her day.

People worried about actual germs should take a look around at the people not the pets... hocker uncovered coughs, talking spitballs into my sub sandwich, sneezing into their hand and then handing out change... I won't go on to worse things but to say I'd rather kiss a pug on the lips then shake most peoples hands... lol.

Honestly the allergy thing, there's plenty of stores to frequent that are pet free...

[Corkey]

I never let my cat(s) on the counter simply because our counters are often too small and I really dislike the smell of burnt whiskers (too much curiosity by some of these guys)

Ours is too fat to jump on the counters, 17 lbs, but she is on a diet.

[Random]

Just curious:

Do folks who feel like bringing pets to public places is a hardship on folks with allergies also feel that perfume and cologne-wearers should leave their scents at home?

The reason I ask is because the lady at my job who complained about "bring a dog to work day" also has asked that everyone in my unit stop wearing perfume and cologne and also asked the campus building supervisor change out the "smelly" soap and air fresheners in all the bathrooms.

As someone who is very scent sensitive, I'm going to feild this one..

I have worked with two people who's over use of cologne/perfume caused my air way to completey close... Triggered migrains than had me seeing technocolor,leaving me unable to speak, or understand what was being said to me.. When I went to HR about these events, I was made to feel like I was being whiney and I just needed to suck it up... I was called on to the carpet about making a supervior feel akward because I couldn't be next to her without having an allergic reaction... I ended up leaving both of the jobs...

If someone has sever allergies.. Life is not fun... I had to leave my chosen career because I became allergic to air born flour.. (Can't be a bread maker if you can't make bread) Someone impusivly putting on that extra spritz of perfume in the morning, and I have to stand in line behind them in the grocery store, means that I have to leave the area... Possibly the store depending on how strong of a reaction I have to the chemicals. (Patchouli is going to take me down for two days with a migrain)

Going down the detergent isle in the grocery store is test on how long I can hold my breath... (Don't get me started on trying to walk PAST the Yankee Candle Store)

Trying to do the work that you are paid for while your eyes are streaming, your head is pounding and you are fighting to breath is not a pleasant thing.. You are suffering because someone wants to SMELL pretty.. you are paying for other peoples vanity with your very breath...

I might feel a bit strongly about this.. It just seems so silly... You can't breath so someone can smell good..

If I had my way, all work places would be scent free...

[JustJo]

If someone comes to our home we tend to vacuum first, but that wont get rid of the allergens, so forewarned, we have cat. She stays.

We have 2 dogs and 4 cats, and my son's best friend is allergic to both. We've found that Febreeze allergen reducer sprayed on everything fabric, followed by a good vacuuming, seems to do the trick when he's coming to visit. It's not perfect, but it helps alot.

And cats on the counter...they're not allowed, but they're cats...so I don't trust them to follow the rules when I'm not watching. I never prep food directly on the counter as a result...I just use a cutting board and pop it in the dishwasher. Then I never have to worry about kitty feet...even if I don't see any evidence of them.

[Random]

I don't believe that peoples pets need to allowed in public buildings... Pet stores, yes... It's a store for pets.. But stores that have nothing to do with animals... Why do they need to be there? They are not children, they can stay at home... Not everyone has perfect control over their animals.. If I'm running into Home depot for paint, I'm not signing up to possibly slip on pee or poop (Not everyone cleans up after their animal) to possibly be biten or jumped on by an animal that has slipped a leash... I'm there for paint...

I love animals.. I love taking walks and meeting all the local dogs... When I worked at Petsmart, I loved when people brought their animals in...

But for me... Animals are not human... They don't need to go every where their humans go... (I'm of the same opionion about small children.. lol.. they don't need to go every place that adults go)

I worked in an office where everyone brought their dogs to work.. but no one really wanted to take them out or clean up the mess from not taking them outside... So I got volunteered a lot.. To clean up and do the walking... So, I don't have the happy expericence that other people seem to have with animals in the work place...

[Random]

We have 2 dogs and 4 cats, and my son's best friend is allergic to both. We've found that Febreeze allergen reducer sprayed on everything fabric, followed by a good vacuuming, seems to do the trick when he's coming to visit. It's not perfect, but it helps alot.

And cats on the counter...they're not allowed, but they're cats...so I don't trust them to follow the rules when I'm not watching. I never prep food directly on the counter as a result...I just use a cutting board and pop it in the dishwasher. Then I never have to worry about kitty feet...even if I don't see any evidence of them.

Fabreeze allergen reducer is the bomb... Love it, love it.. love it..

Random, who is allergic to cats and has five of those babies..

[bigbutchmistie]

I used to have a friend who is passed on now, but she had four cats. Im so highly allergic... She tried everything. I would have to sit on a breathing treatments just to visit her... (She was a nurse and would administer them)

And when I was little even though its not the kitties fault, I witnessed my best friend killed before my eyes. She was coming over, her mom was driving and my friend had snuck the cat into the car. Driving in the country where we lived coming down the two lane road in front of the church next to our house. A diesel truck was coming one way and she was coming the other and the cat got spooked and jumped on her shoulders scared the crap out of the mom and she swerved and drove head on to hit the diesel.. Killing my friend, and injuring severely her mother.

So, I guess that and the fact that Im highly allergic would be why I simply dont go to my friends houses who have cats. Its understood why and no offense is taken, and why I dont date anyone with any cats. Not even one.

[suebee]

Just curious:

Do folks who feel like bringing pets to public places is a hardship on folks with allergies also feel that perfume and cologne-wearers should leave their scents at home?

The reason I ask is because the lady at my job who complained about "bring a dog to work day" also has asked that everyone in my unit stop wearing perfume and cologne and also asked the campus building supervisor change out the "smelly" soap and air fresheners in all the bathrooms.

I have problems with airborn allergens; both allergies and sensitivities. Scents of any kind can trigger a migraine that effectively ends my day. It's not that I don't "get" it - I used to wear perfume myself. It's just a health thing. And as an aside, I don't have any kinds of scents in my house, because many of them (mostly the oil-based ones) can be lethal to birds - they can die within minutes!

I think the difference with the presence of animals is that most people have to actually touch the animal to be in contact with the dander before they have a reaction. So while I have great sympathy for allergies, I find a lot of people over-react. Maybe not all, but many.

Cats are another thing though, I don't want anything that can and will get up and walk on my counters and tables. Ick. Sorry, I know we have a lot of cat lovers, but it squicks me out to have them on the counters, especially.

I totally agree. Our cats don't have many rules, but kitchen counters are OFF LIMITS!

[Jett]

I love animals... I was really grateful when my mom was in hospice care for the little dog that was the "resident" smile maker. He'd make the rounds with the owner to see all the people and my mom just lit up when he'd come around and she get to hold him.

I'm also a huge fan of the same programs in hospitals and nursing homes for those who desire them. It's been seen that some people can make better and faster recoveries or just have better quality of life due to these programs.

I don't see animals as just "pets"... not to me, and to some people they are their "children". I also think some people don't have anyone and to get to bring their companion to the store probably means quite a lot, and maybe not just for the companionship alone, but also for the contact and conversation it may provoke too.

Just some additional thoughts...

Metro

[Soft*Silver]

my dog is to me what I am to her. companions. I do not see her as a pet. I use to be a pet owner then I got my first newfie and learned how to love animals. Really love them. That girl was a Delta dog and we went to hospitals and nursing homes together. My old girl now, is the sister of that first newfie. She goes where I go when she can. I dont take here where there is food. I dont take her where there is danger to her or another life form. But yes, she has gone into tractor supply with me. She goes into the pet stores. She use to hang out at used book store too. She has gone to many an AA meeting with me too. And she always goes to my family outings too. We all bring our dogs as well as our kids. I have taken her to college campuses for workshops too. But you have to understand...she is attached to my side...always approaches people gently and waits for children to come up to her. She nudges them softly with her nose rather than lick them...usually. LOL. Depends on if they just ate soemthing....LOL. When i sit, she lays down. She doesnt move. She doesnt bark. And she is timid to other animals and would NEVER approach an animal. In fact, a mini doxie bit her on the nose once and my girl ran behind my legs and trembled back there...I use to take her to work too, when I taught in NY. And she would do sessions with my kids when I was a children's therapist. They loved laying on her and feeling her warmth and acceptance. I have not taken her places when people have asked me not to. But usually she is accepted and even encouraged to come. When Dawson comes to live with us (he is a 10 year old black newfie of 200 lbs) I expect to take him around too. But he needs to be with me for several months before I take him to schools, nursing homes, etc. I need to know the dog and he needs to know me too. Story stays with me, beside me and looks to me for her safety and signals. Dawson needs to learn those and that takes time...

[Kobi]

I would much rather deal with someones well behaved, leashed pet in a public place then I would their unruly, obnoxious children.

I do understand that there are people who are afraid of animals, some who have allergies, some with sanitation concerns.

I would trust a responsible pet owner would use their judgement accordingly.

[Darth Denkay]

Gretchen, the dog I used to have (may she rest in peace) was extremely well-behaved. I took her with me everywhere. One of the places she went was where I get my hair cut. They loved her there, and frequently told me that she was better behaved than most of the kids there.

So apparently animals are more germy than kids????? Yeah, right...

I don't dislike kids in principal, but to be honest I frequently find them annoying in public. I shouldn't have to listen to a kid scream and yell in a restaurant. Don't understand why folks don't keep their kids in their seats instead of running around in a restaurant and such. I say if kids are allowed then dogs should be too, and BOTH should be leashed :dogwalking:

[Kimbo]

Just curious:

Do folks who feel like bringing pets to public places is a hardship on folks with allergies also feel that perfume and cologne-wearers should leave their scents at home?

The reason I ask is because the lady at my job who complained about "bring a dog to work day" also has asked that everyone in my unit stop wearing perfume and cologne and also asked the campus building supervisor change out the "smelly" soap and air fresheners in all the bathrooms.

Medusa, like Random, I am also very sensitive. When I get the slightest whiff of a smell that I am sensitive to I can feel my throat start to close, most often I will find myself in an asthma attack. What if someone came to work smelling like dog crap because that was a good fragrance to them, would you tolerate it? To me some of the fragrances people wear smell worse than dog crap, they make me physically sick, although unpleasant, the smell of dog crap does not. There is a wave of companies in Seattle that are creating fragrance free workplaces. I completely understand why and support them fully.

Several years ago a potential employer asked be if I had issues with animals in the workplace, of which I don't. He brought his dog to work everyday. I asked if employees were allowed to bring their dogs to work and he said no. He was allergice to dogs, the breed of dog he had is one known to be good for people with allergies. I didn't think it was a fair policy.

I am a big softie when it comes to animals but there are places animals should not be for human safety or the safety of the animal.

[MsDemeanor]

I don't believe that peoples pets need to allowed in public buildings... Pet stores, yes... It's a store for pets.. But stores that have nothing to do with animals... Why do they need to be there?
See, I'm just the opposite. I would write the above as: I don't believe that people's children need to be allowed in public buildings....children's stores, yes...It's a store for children. But stores that have nothing to do with children...Why do they need to be there?

I'd much rather be around people's animals than people's kids, especially in this era of overindulged children and under-disciplining parents. Many of the department stores in my area allow dogs, and I've yet to see one cause 1/10th the disturbance that screaming brats cause every day.

As for the woman online who was complaining about pets in shopping carts and the germs, I refuse to put anything in that pop-open seat in shopping carts, and slam it shut when the bag boy at the grocery store tries to put groceries in it. People put kids with nasty diapers in that thing, I don't want my food there!

I loved seeing dogs everywhere in Europe :)

[Gemme]

I love pets, but they shed. If they come into my lobby and they scratch and lay around or are petted by some folks and shed and then an allergic child comes in and gets their hair on his or her hand and then injests it or breathes it in, then that could potentially be a very bad situation. People don't just go around slapping a 'no pet' sign on a door because they want to (most of the time). It's usually a general public safety and/or health concern.

I believe that pets should be allowed in some places and not in some places. Only seeing eye dogs are allowed in my post office. I'm assuming it's the same with other government buildings. If your pet can wait for you at the post office, then they can wait at the store too. Or at home. If a pet is so traumatized with abandonment issues that they can't be left alone when you run a few errands, you have bigger fish to fry than whether someone else approves or disapproves of your pet being with you. You need a crate and the Dog Whisperer. :blink:

I have always worked with the public and very often, especially in this state which is very pet friendly, the pets have better manners than the children. Personally, I'm fine with pets being just about anywhere, but I know a lot of people who are either afraid of dogs, allergic to cats or dogs or both, and there are always going to be safety and health concerns when mixing species.

It doesn't hurt anyone to think of someone other than themselves in the big picture. You get to go home to your pet and get all the loving you want, but if something happens because of your pet and because you couldn't leave them at home for half an hour... *shrug*

As for scents, I am not scent-sensitive but I know some who are and coming into contact with an unfriendly scent can make them absolutely miserable. Going into known situations (a friend's house with pets or your workplace where Mary will invariably spritz all day long), there are usually preparations that can be made. As some have mentioned...Febreeze, vacuuming the softa and floor, taking Benedryl, etc...but it's those unforeseen moments that seem to cause the most discomfort.

If someone I spend more than a mere blink of time with mentions that I'm wearing too much fragrance, I have no problems with putting on less in the future. If it's someone I am unlikely to see again, I will try to put some physical space between them and myself and help them to feel as comfortable as possible.

[Random]

See, I'm just the opposite. I would write the above as: I don't believe that people's children need to be allowed in public buildings....children's stores, yes...It's a store for children. But stores that have nothing to do with children...Why do they need to be there?

I'd much rather be around people's animals than people's kids, especially in this era of overindulged children and under-disciplining parents. Many of the department stores in my area allow dogs, and I've yet to see one cause 1/10th the disturbance that screaming brats cause every day.

As for the woman online who was complaining about pets in shopping carts and the germs, I refuse to put anything in that pop-open seat in shopping carts, and slam it shut when the bag boy at the grocery store tries to put groceries in it. People put kids with nasty diapers in that thing, I don't want my food there!

I loved seeing dogs everywhere in Europe :)

I have to agree with you... Personaly I don't think it's necessary to bring children to all the places that people bring children... Unfortunately, sometimes a parent can't afford a baby sitter and if they need to get something done, then they have to bring the child.. It's sort of the law...

Most people are saying.. *responcible pet owners* Unfortunatly not all pet owners are responcible... and not all dogs are as well trained as they could be..

[MsDemeanor]

Most people are saying.. *responcible pet owners* Unfortunatly not all pet owners are responcible... and not all dogs are as well trained as they could be..
Again, same could be said for child owners...not all child owners are responsible and not all children are as well trained as they could be.

[Kobi]

Again, same could be said for child owners...not all child owners are responsible and not all children are as well trained as they could be.

Two words.....duct tape.

Apply liberally to both.

[SuperFemme]

I tried to buy a plot and headstone for myself at the local pet cemetery.
They always have MILLIONS of flowers and it's so pretty there.

I was turned down for me, but offered a package for my dogs. Dammit.

The people cemetery is not nearly as well visited or adorned. I want to play catch with all the happy pet zombies. They have it far better off.

[The_Lady_Snow]

Wow...

So you think it's ok to duct tape a kids mouth?

Wrap them in shrink wrap and put them over head?

I have dogs, they are members of our pack

I also have children

Both my animals and my children are well behaved.. Frankly *I* don't need a leash for either

I would think though that if I said something to the effect of anything most have said about a dog all hell would break out..

Sometimes it feels people give a tiny shit more about animals than kids..

That's just my POV though

[SuperFemme]

I'd also like to point out that one cannot leave a child at home in a cage/crate. Definitely illegal.

Dog sitters = $0 when you are going for short trips out to the store.

Babysitters = $5-20 per hour.


So other than guide dogs, and the PetCo/PetSmart it's a lot more feasible to take ones germy bratty child out than ones dog.

[wolfwalker]

If I had my chose. there would be way more animals in stores and way less humans. :floatbee::ballcat::hospital-snoopy:

[The_Lady_Snow]

If I had my chose. there would be way more animals in stores and way less humans. :floatbee::ballcat::hospital-snoopy:

Does your pet know how to run a cash register too???:superfunny:

[Kobi]

Wow...

So you think it's ok to duct tape a kids mouth?

Wrap them in shrink wrap and put them over head?

I have dogs, they are members of our pack

I also have children

Both my animals and my children are well behaved.. Frankly *I* don't need a leash for either

I would think though that if I said something to the effect of anything most have said about a dog all hell would break out..

Sometimes it feels people give a tiny shit more about animals than kids..

That's just my POV though

Kobi reads above. Kobi ponders. Kobi is thinking no matter how I answer this, it will come back to bite me in the hiney. So, Kobi opts for the wisdom of the past.....so people can get pissy with Mark Twain instead......:freak:

"If you pick up a starving Dog and make him prosperous,
he will not bite you.
This is the principal difference between
a dog and a man..."


Mark Twain

[Random]

Again, same could be said for child owners...not all child owners are responsible and not all children are as well trained as they could be.

Ya.. but unfortunately, there is this law about living kids home by them selves.. Sucks, but what cha going to do...

[MsDemeanor]

Sometimes it feels people give a tiny shit more about animals than kids..
I absolutely do. I like animals a whole lot more than I like most people, and I like kids even less than I like adults.

[SuperFemme]

What would you eat first?
A baby or a puppy?

http://www.parentsconnect.com/editorial_images/6/baby-eating-in-high-chair-mess.jpg

http://www.top-dogs-names.com/images/cute-puppies.jpg

[diamondrose]

Working in retail, I have found there will always be someone who is unhappy with something.

[Kobi]

What would you eat first?
A baby or a puppy?

http://www.parentsconnect.com/editorial_images/6/baby-eating-in-high-chair-mess.jpg

http://www.top-dogs-names.com/images/cute-puppies.jpg

:cracked:It is truly amazing how far off topic these threads can go.

[MsDemeanor]

Working in retail, I have found there will always be someone who is unhappy with something.
No shit.....

[Linus]

What would you eat first?
A baby or a puppy?

http://www.parentsconnect.com/editorial_images/6/baby-eating-in-high-chair-mess.jpg

http://www.top-dogs-names.com/images/cute-puppies.jpg


<scarcasm/kidding> The kid. He's covered in chocolate and I hate coughing up hairballs

[Apocalipstic]

I loved bringing dogs to work, until someone brought theirs in after hours and left it unsupervised....

The dog (they said it was a dog, I suspect a large horse) left a huge fecal deposit in the lobby which I did not see until after our General Manager stepped in it and tracked it down the hall. he was furious!

I ended up not only having to clean it up (since no one took responsibility till the next day), but I had to write a memo to entire company about the "unfortunate fecal incident in the lobby" which now meant no one could bring their pets in to work.

Generally though, I do prefer animals to people.

[Soft*Silver]

I just signed up to do foster care with a local non profit who takes the dogs out of our kill shelter/pound and socializes, vets and trains them, all ready for a family of their own.

This poor girl is one of their recent cases. If any of you can help, please do...

http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/16261026

[betenoire]

I would draw the line at bringing pets to your place of employment, just like I don't think people should bring their children to work. It's distracting and makes you less productive.

If there was a Chocolate Lab in my office I would -never- get anything done because I'd be too busy giving headscratchies and saying things like "you've got nice armpits! you've got nice armpits! yes you do!"

[Apocalipstic]

I say yes bring dogs ad long as you supervise them and leave the kids at HOME.

[Kobi]

Adele needed to give three choices:

1. Babies
2. Puppies
3. Kittens <---June's choice for who would be eaten first.

Oh. Am I off topic?

</end Disingenuous Smile>

:playingcat: Nah. But I would expect a lesbian to be a bit more amenable to pussy. But, what do I know.

[betenoire]

Wait. Are we eating the things we like most or least first?

I would eat all three at the same time in a stir-fry. But just the feet. I only want to eat the feet - since that is the cutest part of all babies (animal and human).

[The_Lady_Snow]

:playingcat: Nah. But I would expect a lesbian to be a bit more amenable to pussy. But, what do I know.


Wow dude you are on a roll today

:bicycle:

[SuperFemme]

<scarcasm/kidding> The kid. He's covered in chocolate and I hate coughing up hairballs

yeah. so that is not chocolate. :badger:

[VuDu]

An estimated 15% of the population is allergic to pet dander. Of that number, 1/3 have a pet in their household. (AHS)

As a "scentsative" person, I can understand the stance of keeping your pets at home due to allergies. Pet dander is one of the leading causes of chronic asthma. I am allergic to both cats and dogs yet I am owned by 4 beautiful dogs and 2 weird ass cats. I willingly take responsibility for waking up every morning with itchy eyes, a semi-closed airway, having to take pills, nasal spray, etc because my pets are my family. I will vacuum every day/wash bed sheets EOD, etc because that is what family does (insert heart smilie here).

That being said... I am a stickler about pet hair being in places that have food. I don't really want to see your dog in a restaurant or a grocery store that I frequent, but don't mind seeing one in Home Depot, Micheal's, B&N, etc. They make any number of people smile, crouch down and talk in baby talk as well as generally look silly. To me, they are people's children so yes, they will treat them much the same as human ones.

I know that I have an allergy. Knowing is half the battle. I say, take a wide bearth around the animal and bring your meds.

[Medusa]

I'm one of those people who would rather work with a room full of Gracie's than the chip-cruncher, the lady with the REALLY loud and annoying cell phone jingle, and the "burper".


Oh, and my dog pees outside and not all over the seat in the women's bathroom.
;)

[Billy]

I'm one of those people who would rather work with a room full of Gracie's than the chip-cruncher, the lady with the REALLY loud and annoying cell phone jingle, and the "burper".


Oh, and my dog pees outside and not all over the seat in the women's bathroom.
;)

My dogs pee outside instead of all over the toilet seat and floor and perhaps a wall or 2 in the mens room at the warehouse ......

I love to bring My dogs to work :) One at a time of coarse :)

[AtLast]

Certified service dogs are coming to mind.... people that use them do like to eat out sometimes... I've trained and used therapy dogs in my practice. I also used one of my therapy boxers while coaching people going for their state board clinical oral exams. An amazing anti-anxiety, calming tool! But, the dog always got the thank you card after they passed and were licensed!

I'm a pet person and take responsibility for my pooch when out and about. He does need to have manners and if someone could have an asthma attack around him, I would leave him home.

However, I find that I just avoid non-pet people at this time of my life. I don't date anyone that dislikes animals (re: my profile). Why would I put myself through that? No one is that wonderful. Also, I was with a partner that didn't like dogs (she liked cats), and I never will be again. Too stressful. My dog is family and so are my cats. And I have a very clean and tidy home. Investing in a Sebo vacuum cleaner was one of the best things I have ever done!

OK, Kobi… I said oral exam up there…..


:boink:

[chefhottie25]

when my hylda was still alive, we went to several pet friendly places. i lived in chicago at the time...she went to the dog beach, several sidewalk cafes where we had brunch, and a couple of neighborhood bars that allowed dogs too. even at wrigley field...the cubs have an annual bring your dog to the park day. she sat in the seat next to me and watched the game with me. it was great.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/chefhottie25/031407_21291.jpg

[AtLast]

So strange. I guess it is because I know my son is grown, and responsible and makes a good living and able to take good care of himself and his family that my main concern is about things like "What to do with my fur-kids while I have joint replacement surgeries?" (long recovery times and I need four of them!). And I think about dying and making sure I have things written out about their placement and care (or the pets of my future).

LOL, you have no idea how many times I tell my son- "You have to promise you will take care of Ranocchio (my little Frog Dog, Frenchie) and take the cats to Linda (my niece who loves cats)". He gives me a bad time and says... "See, you love them more than me!" But, I know he will do these things. He is a dog lover and has 2 sweet Labs.

I am someone that has spent all of my working life in working with people and in education- all "people jobs and careers." Yet, at this time in my life, I honesly like fur-people over humans most of the time! I have less and less patience with people! Sure, my dearest friends and family, I adore. But, being with my fur-sons is best! There is no way that I will even date a woman that doesn't love both dogs and cats. Don't care how supa' she is! No pet adoration, no date!

[Glenn]

Being from Chi-town, I have also been to the dogbeach, bark in the park, outside cafe's, pet parades, etc. Heh.. even at Cubs park where they let my dog Thor try out for outfielder!

when my hylda was still alive, we went to several pet friendly places. i lived in chicago at the time...she went to the dog beach, several sidewalk cafes where we had brunch, and a couple of neighborhood bars that allowed dogs too. even at wrigley field...the cubs have an annual bring your dog to the park day. she sat in the seat next to me and watched the game with me. it was great.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/chefhottie25/031407_21291.jpg

[lipstixgal]

I live in NJ and we have some dog parks around but if you want to rent it is hard to find a pet friendly place. I have two dogs so I don't know where to move. I know that Flroida is pet friendly everywhere I looked took dogs apartments that is I don't know about houses yet. Still looking for jobs in florida before I move there!!


Hope everyone finds a good place for their pet to take along with!!

[suebee]

So strange. I guess it is because I know my son is grown, and responsible and makes a good living and able to take good care of himself and his family that my main concern is about things like "What to do with my fur-kids while I have joint replacement surgeries?" (long recovery times and I need four of them!). And I think about dying and making sure I have things written out about their placement and care (or the pets of my future).

LOL, you have no idea how many times I tell my son- "You have to promise you will take care of Ranocchio (my little Frog Dog, Frenchie) and take the cats to Linda (my niece who loves cats)". He gives me a bad time and says... "See, you love them more than me!" But, I know he will do these things. He is a dog lover and has 2 sweet Labs.

I am someone that has spent all of my working life in working with people and in education- all "people jobs and careers." Yet, at this time in my life, I honesly like fur-people over humans most of the time! I have less and less patience with people! Sure, my dearest friends and family, I adore. But, being with my fur-sons is best! There is no way that I will even date a woman that doesn't love both dogs and cats. Don't care how supa' she is! No pet adoration, no date!

Oh, I hear you on this one! When I was diagnosed with cancer two years ago the first thing I did was to make sure that there were people to look after my animals both during my recovery, and "just in case"! And I have got to be the luckiest woman alive, because after all that I met my girl, and she is just as big an animal lover as I am. :) Between the two of us we presently have seven foster kitties and seven - soon to be eight shelter/rescue dogs and cats. So they're still out there! Don't give up!

[theoddz]

I am allergic to cats, for one thing, but I generally don't have to worry about having a big reaction if they're in a store or somewhere where their fur is not in my face, or I don't have to have my head on something where they've been.

I, personally, like the idea of having animals around, as long as they are friendly and won't bite, etc. Heck, if it were practical, I'd take my two White's Tree Frogs, Myra and Ivan, with me when I went out, but they probably would not enjoy themselves.

I could totally see myself driving down the road, or in a Home Depot with Ivan on one shoulder and Myra on the other. :carride::awww::frog::frog:

...and, I've never heard of anyone being allergic to frogs. :|

~Theo~ :bouquet:

[cuddlyfemme]

I have 4 cats who don't travel any place with me...they wouldn't like it even though I'd love to take them with me. But, when I go to a store and see people with their pets, that always makes me happy, unlike seeing people's kids which always makes me crabby when they are yelling and running around. I do understand about people with allergies and how being around pets can trigger allergies/astma attacks. I think the places that are pet friendly are great and I frequent those stores. Hopefully more places will become pet friendly...although I understand about restaurants and cafe's not wanting pets in the area.

[DomnNC]

A few resources for finding pet friendly places when you travel:

http://www.fidofriendly.com/

http://www.dogfriendly.com/

http://www.petfriendlytravel.com/

http://www.puppytravel.com/

http://www.pettravelcenter.com/

http://www.pettravel.com/

http://www.petswelcome.com/

[Words]

We've just arrived home from a week long visit to Somerset in the West Country. Not only were W/we able to take O/our two Yorkies with U/us - W/we stayed in a beautiful, 400 year old thatched roof cottage located in the prettiest of villages - but they were allowed into every single bar/restaurant that we went to, both there and in neighbouring villages, and would have been allowed into the majority of those that W/we didn't, judging from the 'Dogs welcome' signs outside. (Equally surprising was the fact that W/we could even take them into the Caves at Cheddar Gorge (free of charge) and on the Lynton/Lynmouth water powered cliff railway (again, free of charge).)

I tell you, there's a lot to be said for country living.

Words

[Jesse]

I live in Florida and rent a house here. Have never had a problem with my dog being refused access. Apartments here generally have a size limit of 2o lbs. as well as a pet deposit, but do not charge a monthly rent for the dogs, generally. Rental houses generally charge a pet deposit and some have a size/breed restriction, but most just have breed restrictions.

I live in NJ and we have some dog parks around but if you want to rent it is hard to find a pet friendly place. I have two dogs so I don't know where to move. I know that Flroida is pet friendly everywhere I looked took dogs apartments that is I don't know about houses yet. Still looking for jobs in florida before I move there!!


Hope everyone finds a good place for their pet to take along with!!

[lipstixgal]

I live in Florida and rent a house here. Have never had a problem with my dog being refused access. Apartments here generally have a size limit of 2o lbs. as well as a pet deposit, but do not charge a monthly rent for the dogs, generally. Rental houses generally charge a pet deposit and some have a size/breed restriction, but most just have breed restrictions.

Thanks for letting me know about the houses I will look into that unless I have to sell my house here in NJ first then will be able to move until then I don't know what I am going to do!!

[Jesse]

Craigslist is a good place to look for rentals, just in case you do move to FL.

Thanks for letting me know about the houses I will look into that unless I have to sell my house here in NJ first then will be able to move until then I don't know what I am going to do!!

[MsTinkerbelly]

We've just arrived home from a week long visit to Somerset in the West Country. Not only were W/we able to take O/our two Yorkies with U/us - W/we stayed in a beautiful, 400 year old thatched roof cottage located in the prettiest of villages - but they were allowed into every single bar/restaurant that we went to, both there and in neighbouring villages, and would have been allowed into the majority of those that W/we didn't, judging from the 'Dogs welcome' signs outside. (Equally surprising was the fact that W/we could even take them into the Caves at Cheddar Gorge (free of charge) and on the Lynton/Lynmouth water powered cliff railway (again, free of charge).)

I tell you, there's a lot to be said for country living.

Words

We just came back from two weeks in Europe (primarily Yorkshire, and Stow-on-wold)...amazing how everywhere (pubs, stores, Castles) allowed dogs! They are such a part of the culture and family in the country,:tea:

[Sparkle]

I live in a very pet friendly area - our "dog park" is a 7 acre bit of land owned by the city. They recently had a doggy halloween parade up there.
Its beautiful and a great place to take dogs. And there is an enormous bike-trail network that runs through all of the neighboring towns which, again, is fantastic for dog owners.

Both of my current work-places have an open-door dog policy; though dogs only come to work in the summer months at the school due to allergy issues during the school year.

Provincetown is also a fabulous dog-friendly town. I think it was voted 'most dog friendly town' in America in 2010. A huge number of hotels/motels/b&b's and cottage rentals allow dogs. Public beaches allow dogs (on leash), there is a dog park and many restaurants allow them in the al fresco dining areas.

Having traveled cross-country one way with two cats (so *not* fun for anyone, btw) and then back the other way with one dog....I was very impressed with Starwood Hotels (W, Westin, Sheraton etc); each place accommodated my pets graciously.

[Words]

We just came back from two weeks in Europe (primarily Yorkshire, and Stow-on-wold)...amazing how everywhere (pubs, stores, Castles) allowed dogs! They are such a part of the culture and family in the country,:tea:

I agree. Very different from town/city living. Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that out in the country, dogs are such a necessity in terms of warding of feelings of isolation? Plus, of course, dogs are also used for work purposes.

Either way, it's going to be hard to adapt to returning to an area where so many restrictions apply in terms of dog accessibility.

Words