Warmer weather means it is time to get outside, sit on a patio and enjoy yourself. Nervous to leave your pet at home? Pet-friendly patios have been popping up all over the place and seeing a dog at the local pub is not as uncommon as it once was. Bringing your pet along can be a fun experience, but just like humans, pets should follow certain etiquette when out in public, especially in highly populated areas. Check out these tips and tricks to help your cat or dog put their best paw forward.
Keep a short leash
While local bars and restaurants might allow pets, they don’t want the place to turn into a dog park. Keep your pet on a leash that is tied to your chair, and make sure that you don’t lose track of what he is doing while you enjoy your meal. It is also a good idea to leave the retractable leash at home and opt for a more secure option.
Can your cat keep his cool?
Animals are naturally distracted by the presence of other animals, which can make bringing your pet out challenging. Make sure your pet is well-behaved around others before bringing them to a crowded location.
Bring treats
Treats are especially important when in public settings that may include food. To keep your dog from begging and your cat from trying to steal food, give them plenty of treats. Then they won’t feel left out as you snack away.
Don’t stay too long
Warmer weather increases your pet’s chance of overheating, so keep track of how long you have been outside. Bring water along to make sure they stay hydrated, as well. If you want to linger for more than a couple hours, it may be best to leave your pet at home.
Keep other guests in mind
Are your neighbors and servers okay with pets? Make sure to check before you sit down. Even if the establishment is pet-friendly, some of the guests may not be. Since restaurants are really meant for humans, be polite if your neighbors are not comfortable with being around animals.
