Many people class and treat their canine companions as one of the family. At home many dogs are allowed to roam freely around the house and gardens,
behaving whilst their owners dine, relax and sleep. It has now been questioned whether local businesses should be allowing dogs into their buildings
and are being criticised for not catering to our canine companions.

Some pubs and rural cafes do offer water bowls situated outside for dogs in the summer months but how many places allow you to take your pooch inside
with you? Dog lovers Helen Wilkinson and Maggie Morgan, from Brighton are campaigning for greater pet equality.
This campaign has launched as a consequence of The Kennel Club's search for the most dog-friendly business in the UK. Dog owners are invited to vote for
the most accommodating caravan park, cafe, pub, offices etc.

On the back of this search, Helen and Maggie decided to hold their own dog friendly afternoon tea. They were hoping to encourage other local businesses
in their area to be more canine friendly and show them that dogs will and do behave.

Ms Wilkinson commented, "Many establishments in the city are making a dog's dinner of the issue so we hosted our own to highlight a problem that needs
fixing. Majority of pet pooches are perfectly well behaved and should be allowed to sit next to their owner whilst they have a bite to eat."

What are your thoughts and opinions on this matter? Would you like to take your best friend shopping with you and be allowed to take them into
all shops, pubs and cafes? Or do you think your mischievous pooch may cause absolute havoc? Why not share your views and opinions on our online forum?
Visit www.dog-breeds.co.uk/forum.

Written by Dog Breeders Association Marketing Team
July 29th 2009