Here’s the update on rules for pet-friendly patios across Alberta

As you may have heard, some big changes were made about pet-friendly patios in Alberta this summer. If you’re confused about what that actually means, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Basically, the province has removed some red tape related to pet-friendly patios being open and available. Before these changes, eateries that wanted to be pet-friendly needed to have a visit from a Public Health Inspector and authorization from Alberta Health Services.

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Those requirements are no more. Now, any eatery that wants to be pet-friendly can be, as long as two rules are followed:

• Non-service dogs are allowed on patios only and must not pass through any indoor food handling areas, such as dining and food preparation areas.
• Customers must keep their dogs on a leash or in a carrier and have physical control of the dog at all times.

And of course, not every restaurant is going to want to join the wave of pet friendly patios in Alberta. So, before you show up with a pupper at your local bar, definitely make sure that they’re actually welcome there.