Flickr photo by Nick Farnhill
Michigan is a destination for visitors from all over, and many want to bring their four-legged friends with them on their travels. It's no surprise — pets are a big part of our lives, and wanting them to share in the fun is natural.
I recall many years when Gretchen was able to tag along on trips to the Traverse City area.
In fact, I get a lot emails and phone calls from folks across the nation inquiring on pet-friendly restaurants in the area — but I cringe when I have to tell them that there are none. For many, they say that may make or break their decision to come here and spend time (and money!).
But one piece of proposed legislation may enable restaurant patrons to bring their dogs when they dine.
The bill would give cities the oversight to decide whether they wanted to pass such an ordinance. Restaurants could make their own choice whether or not they wished to allow pooches within their outdoor seating areas.
Canines would not be allowed inside these businesses, save for service dogs.
The measure, House Bill 4335, was introduced in February by Rep. Margaret O'Brien, R-Portage.
O'Brien emphasized that the proposal wouldn't be mandatory for every establishment; those outside of tourism areas may not find it to be a fit.
“We didn't want to step on any toes.”
But there's no doubt that many would consider the idea to be attractive.
“We've become a destination state,” said O'Brien.
“We just want to make sure Michigan has one more tool in the tool belt.”
The idea of allowing pets to join their people at Michigan eateries would follow the lead of other states, like Florida and California that are lucky enough to have an abundance of tourism.
Lorrie Shaw leads the pets section for AnnArbor.com. Catch her daily dog walking and pet sitting adventures or email her directly and subscribe to AnnArbor.com's email newsletters.