How to Make Your Bar or Restaurant Pet Friendly

An increasing number of consumers are dining out with their four-legged companions, and restaurants and bars that cater to pet owners are reaping the benefits. A pet-friendly restaurant isn’t just a trendy concept - it’s a competitive advantage. 

In fact, according to research from Canada, more than a third (36%) of consumers like the idea of pet-friendly restaurants and are interested in paying them a visit. Nearly half (46%) of those consumers said they dine out with their pets weekly, yet 62% of dog owners revealed that the difficulty of finding dog-friendly spots has posed a barrier that has prevented them from dining out. 

By welcoming pets, you’re tapping into a growing market of pet lovers who appreciate establishments that accommodate their furry friends.

From boosting foot traffic and increasing profit margins to enhancing customer loyalty, making your restaurant or bar pet-friendly can be a game-changer. Not only do pet owners tend to stay longer and spend more, but they’re also more likely to return and recommend your spot to other pet lovers. Plus, embracing a pet-friendly atmosphere can set you apart from competitors, making your restaurant a go-to destination.

Of course, allowing pets in your restaurant does come with challenges - health regulations, potential disturbances, and customer concerns all need to be carefully managed. But with the right planning, policies, and setup, you can create a space that’s safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for both pets and humans.

How to Create a Pet-Friendly Space

If your restaurant has an outdoor patio, you’re already halfway there! A well-designed pet-friendly space should include:

• Shaded Areas: Dogs can overheat quickly, so providing umbrellas, pergolas, or covered sections is essential.
• Adequate Space: Avoid crowding tables too closely together so pets (and their owners) feel comfortable.
• Pet-Friendly Flooring: Opt for surfaces that are easy to clean and safe for paws, think artificial turf, sealed concrete, or slip-resistant tiles.

A few small touches can go a long way in making your restaurant pet-friendly. This could include:

• Water Bowls: Keep fresh water readily available for pets.
• Waste Stations: Install dog waste bag dispensers and trash bins to encourage responsible pet ownership.
• Leash Hooks: Secure hooks at each table so pet owners can attach their leashes, reducing the risk of tangled messes or runaway pups.

Not all cleaning products are pet-safe. Choose non-toxic, pet-friendly cleaners to sanitize surfaces without exposing animals to harmful chemicals. Additionally, make sure any plants in your space are non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Crafting a Pet-Friendly Menu

Pet owners love treating their furry friends, so why not go one step beyond your competitors and offer a special pet menu? 

Of course, not all human food is safe for pets, so consider adding a menu with items like dog-friendly treats, pet-safe ice cream, and broth-based beverages for hydration. A little creativity goes a long way - peanut butter biscuits, grilled chicken bites, and yoghurt-based frozen treats are sure to be a hit.

Partnering with a local pet bakery or specialty pet food brand can also boost credibility and lead to cross-promotions. Many pet owners are mindful of what their furry friends eat, so emphasizing high-quality, non-toxic ingredients will earn their trust and loyalty. A well-crafted pet menu can turn your restaurant into a favourite dining spot for both humans and their four-legged companions.

Understand the Laws and Regulations That Apply to You

Before rolling out the red carpet for pets, it’s important to ensure you’re in compliance with local regulations. Here are some crucial things to keep in mind.

Each country, state and even city has different rules regarding animals in dining establishments. In the US, for example, while service animals must be allowed indoors under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), pet policies for outdoor spaces vary. Check with your local health department to ensure compliance - you don’t want to be on the wrong end of fines and legal breaches.

What happens if a dog bites another customer or damages property? Having liability insurance that covers pet-related incidents is a smart move. Some restaurants even go as far as to require pet owners to sign waivers, acknowledging responsibility for their animals’ behaviour.

It’s essential to differentiate between service animals (which must be allowed inside) and pets (which may be restricted to outdoor areas). Train your staff on how to properly handle these situations to avoid any legal trouble for your business.

Addressing the Health and Safety Concerns of Your Customers

Keeping both human and pet guests safe and healthy should be a top priority. Sanitize pet-friendly areas regularly to prevent odour buildup, and have designated pet-free zones for customers with allergies. Providing hand sanitizer stations for pet owners is another great touch.

Not every diner will be thrilled about eating next to a dog, so clear policies - such as requiring pets to stay on a leash and off furniture - help maintain harmony between pet lovers and those who’d rather dine animal-free. A little structure ensures that everyone has a great experience.

It’s also critical to think about your company’s emergency procedures. What happens if a dog overheats or has a minor injury? Having a basic pet first aid kit and training staff to handle minor pet-related incidents can make a big difference in creating a safe and welcoming environment for your customers - both of the human and furry variety.

Staff Training and Customer Experience

A well-trained team ensures a smooth experience for all your guests. If you decide to take the step into pet-friendliness, then it’s critical that your employees know how to act in a variety of scenarios that could occur. Here are a few tips to help:

Your team should know how to:

• Politely enforce pet policies
• De-escalate pet-related conflicts
• Respond to customer concerns about allergies or safety

What if a dog barks excessively? Or worse, shows aggression? Clear policies should be in place, such as requesting that disruptive pets be removed. Train staff on how to handle these situations tactfully.

Post pet-friendly guidelines at entrances and on your website. Some common rules include:

• Pets must be leashed at all times.
• No aggressive behaviour or excessive barking.
• Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

Don’t Forget to Market Your Pet-Friendly Bar or Restaurant!

Once you’ve set up a welcoming space for pets, it’s time to spread the word! Optimizing your online presence is key - list your restaurant on Google My Business with keywords like “pet-friendly restaurant” to ensure pet owners searching for “pet-friendly restaurant near me” can find you easily.

Hosting special events can also bring in new customers. A “Yappy Hour” with drink specials for owners and treats for their pups, pet adoption days in collaboration with local shelters, or even doggy birthday parties with special menus can create a loyal community of pet lovers around your business.

Partnering with pet-related businesses like groomers, pet stores, and veterinarians can also be beneficial. Cross-promotions, referral programs, or simply offering discounts for their customers can bring in a steady flow of pet-loving patrons.

And of course, don’t forget about social media. Encouraging customers to share photos of their pets enjoying your restaurant can boost engagement and visibility. Consider an Instagram contest where pet owners tag your business for a chance to win a free meal or a special pet treat. Creating a pet-friendly atmosphere is only half the battle - letting people know about it is what will keep them coming back!

Making your restaurant pet-friendly is more than just a cute gimmick - it’s a smart business move that can attract loyal, high-spending customers. With the right setup, policies, and marketing strategies, you can create a welcoming environment where pet owners (and their furry friends) feel right at home.

Ready to make your bar or restaurant the go-to pet-friendly spot in town? Start planning today and watch your business thrive - one wagging tail at a time!

If you want to learn how to improve your profit margins, get in touch with Sculpture Hospitality today. Our team of experts can help ensure you have full control of your restaurant and bar inventory for optimized profits and decision making.