Cafe rebellion over outdated dog laws

NOOSA: Struggling cafe owners are rebelling against ``out-of-date’’ dog laws which are costing them money.
They are backing a move by Coast action group Pups in Paradise (PIP) to have the law changed to allow companion dogs in alfresco dining areas.
They say cafes need to be protected from possible fines and patrons must feel protected from possible removal from cafes by council.
Raw Energy Coolum owner Jimmy Carruthers said he would happily welcome back dog owners.
``I didn’t even realise they weren’t allowed, until the council came along with a letter,’’ he said.
``As long as they are well behaved and sit outside I don’t have a problem with it. Turning them away has definitely affected business here.’‘
His view is supported by other cafe owners who asked not to be identified who say they need all the customers they can get during the quiet months.
A cafe staff member in Peregian said she hoped the law changed soon so they could welcome everybody back.
PIP spokeswoman Keri Gazzard said Queensland was the only state to now impose the Food Act law which prohibits companion dogs from outdoor cafes.
The NSW Government amended its rules earlier this year, in what was dubbed a ``victory for common sense’’ by dog and cafe owners alike.
Here on the Coast, cafe owners face fines of up to $2000, with the dog owner copping a $200 fine, if council steps in.
Council spokesman David Cameron said his staff were working within the Act to educate dog owners and businesses and were waiting with interest to see if the law would change.
He confirmed that no dog or cafe owner in the area had been prosecuted.
PIP member and dog trainer Suzanne Wright said some cafes were turning a blind eye to the restrictions.
``It should be up to the discretion of the café owner as to whether their café is dog welcoming,’’ she said.
Hundreds of residents have signed petitions to allow campanion dogs in cafes. PIPs online petition alone has netted 1600 signatures, with several paper copies still circulating.
Discussing the change in NSW laws Minister for Local Government Barbara Perry said the move ``reflected the growth of cafe culture and the desire of pet owners to include their pooch when socialising’‘.

Source: whereilive