I have a special needs dog who can't walk or be left alone.?

He only weighs 3 pounds and I carry him in a special pouch. If I need to go into a store I put a blanket over his bag or put the bag inside my coat. If I want to go to a restaurant I ask if they have a table outside or if they allow pets. if not, I go somewhere else. I was told the other day that I could not bring him into a 7-Eleven because they serve hot food. Is this the law for washington state? I need some help figuring out what HIS rights are, as well as mine.

Thanks

raichasays

Any establishment can refuse to allow your dog to enter for any reason, unless your dog is a service dog that is assisting you with a disability. There is no exception for the other way around - when you are assisting your dog with its disability.

bretsmith7876

Special needs dog? Are you serious? No, he is not allowed in ANY place where food is prepared and it is a Federal Law, not a State law. I was a butcher for 8 years, and dogs were not allowed, unless they were assistance dogs for handicapped customers, but we always looked the other way if the dog was in a purse.
If your dog cannot walk or be left alone, how is he still living a dignified existence? Is he an older dog, or is he maimed in some fashion? I really must tell you, if I had a store, I wouldn't hassle you about a chihuahua in your purse.

classenmom

It is a dog's right not to be abused. That's about it. A guide dog is allowed into stores because of the rights of the person needing the guide dog, not the right of the dog.

There are no exceptions for "special needs" dogs.

Michael H

There are none for him or you ragarding him.

The only way is if the dog was a service dog, and your were reliant on him for basic needs and safety, neither is the case here.

Retail outlets and restaurants are privately owned and can deny access to dogs which are not service animals.

It's not necessarily the state of Washington, rather it is the FDA which prohibits live animals (except fish in tanks) in retail establishments where food is served.

evilattorney

Generally, the health department forbids dogs in any number of places. The only exception are dogs who are certified service dogs. Your dog has no rights in this. You have the option of hiring a sitter or hiring someone to do your shopping for you.

miraclehand2020

What rights ?Today it is your beloved pet which is not a Guide dog,Tomorrow it could be my neighbors' pet horse.

BMTHESPIAN

Your dog doesn't have rights, dogs are considered property and have not rights. In businesses that sell food it is illegal for dogs, other than service animals, to be inside the business period As for any other business the owner of the business has the right to decide if they wish to allow pets inside, privately owned business have the legal right to refuse service to any person for any reason. As far as your rights you have the right not to patronize the business

ICE 'em

I would specifically look the law up where you live. They let some nasty trash in those stores with more crawling off their hair and bodies then a dog ever could so I don't see the big deal.

Enter Your Message or Comment

User Name:
User Email:
Post a comment: