Recently, a heartwarming video featuring Gemma Collins’ beloved pup Blue enjoying a meal at a pub table stirred strong reactions among viewers. While some found the scene endearing, others expressed reservations. At WagIt, we’re committed to ensuring that bringing your furry friend along for outings is always a relaxing and enjoyable experience! We firmly believe that life is better when we’re all together.
The benefits of welcoming dogs into restaurant spaces have been substantiated by research: a staggering “55% of owners would stay out longer if they had their dog with them” (source: Kennel Club). Who wouldn’t want to stay for a second drink because their beloved pup is right there beside them instead of home alone? Dogs, indeed, enrich our lives in numerous ways, serving as steadfast companions on our journeys.
Yet, akin to the different parenting styles, the approaches to pet etiquette vary widely. And just like kids, dogs come in all shapes, sizes and temperaments. At WagIt, we firmly believe that Lola shouldn’t be the talk of the town for all the wrong reasons. No one wants their lunch interrupted by a barking Beagle or a Labrador on the loose. That’s why we make sure to spell out the house rules on our platform, www.wagit.uk, ensuring everyone can enjoy themselves equally.
Nevertheless, it’s important to acknowledge that instances like a family Sunday lunch, where plates are promptly washed afterwards, is no skin off anyone’s nose. Here, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding is paramount. We recognise that while our perspectives may differ, WagIt does not seek to force everyone to love dogs; rather, we want to encourage venues where diverse beliefs can enjoy their time harmoniously. In brief: live and let dine!
Guided by this ethos, we offer the following suggestions to enhance the dining experience for all:
For Dog Owners:
- Keep your canine companion on a leash at all times to ensure the comfort and safety of fellow diners and restaurant staff.
- If your dog shows signs of distress or barks and whines excessively, consider taking them for a brief stroll outdoors.
- Check WagIt to see if the joint is more “woof” than “ruff.”
For Restaurant Staff:
- Before seating someone with a furry friend, give the neighbouring tables a heads-up. They might be allergic or scared, and if they’re not, they’ll appreciate being asked.
- In the event of disruptive behaviour, it’s okay to politely ask them to take a breather outside.
- Explore the “Dogs In Hospitality” course offered by WagIt to equip staff with the knowledge and confidence necessary to extend a warm welcome to canine visitors.
At WagIt, we celebrate the unique bond shared between individuals and their four-legged companions, recognising that it is through mutual respect and inclusivity that we can all thrive together in shared spaces. Let’s keep bringing tails and tables together in perfect harmony.
So let’s raise a toast to wagging tails, happy faces and dining experiences that everyone enjoys!
And to help with that, for both dog owners and hospitality staff there’s WagIt!
3 Comments
Thanks so much Christine.
I wish we had something like this in Australia or even in my home State of Tassie alas we are way behind the UK and even more France .There is nobody starting anything up as our pets are well loved I alas am too old but at last the Public are finally waking up that Dogs are the Angels, we cannot do without.
I live in Bristol and have just been catching up on watching Dragons Den. Having a dog myself I found that your idea resonated with me as whilst you’re allowed to have your dog outside in the garden area, they’re not allowed inside. I would be interested in keeping up to date with your work, as I believe the potential is there for pubs to improve on this requirement. I wish you every success in this.