How To Make Your Pub Friendly For Travelers With Dogs
Many owners would agree that dogs are more than a man’s best friend—they’re essentially part of the family. Since dogs are considered family, many owners tag them along whenever they’re hiking, jogging, grocery shopping, and even traveling long distances.
Although most cities have always had dog friendly pubs dating back to the 17th century, more and more food establishments are making their place dog-friendly. With the younger generation choosing to bring their dogs to public places and social events, the need for dog-friendly establishments has increased.
If you own a pub and you want to increase foot traffic, it might be time to make your establishment pet- or dog-friendly. Here’s what you can do:
Put Up Signages
Eating out is an activity that many people enjoy, and most dog owners would love to meet up with friends and fellow dog owners over lunch or dinner too. The best way to let people know that you’re a pet or dog-friendly establishment is to put up signs on your pub. Companies like Cut Plastic Sheeting can provide you with the proper signage materials to create your eye-catching sign to attract customers.
Additionally, you must also indicate that your pub is dog-friendly on your website and social media profiles. Before travelling, most people search for eateries, pubs, and other entertainment joints they can frequent while in town. Doing this will make it easier for dog owners to find you—even before they’re in town.
Get Dog-Friendly Furniture
Although most dogs are well-behaved, there are those who occasionally want to chew or nibble. To avoid getting your furniture ruined, consider getting quality furniture that can’t easily be ruined.
Furthermore, you can settle for benches that allow owners with well-behaved dogs to sit with them. You can also get aluminum tables for your outdoor space as they are high quality, durable, and chew-proof.
Employ Staff Who Are Great With Dogs
Aside from good food, some restaurants and pubs remain successful because they offer exceptional customer service. When you decide to make your pub dog-friendly, you must also think about the welfare of the dogs that come through your door. Therefore, you must employ staff who are not just good with people—but are good with dogs as well.
Owners can easily notice when your staff treats and handles their dogs well. Their pleasant experience will encourage them to come back and recommend your place to other pet owners as well.
A dog’s life span is shorter compared to humans. That’s why most owners spoil their furry companions more often. Going out to a pub is even a special occasion for most owners and their dogs, and it won’t hurt if you can serve complimentary dog treats or offer dog toys.
Offering toys and treats will motivate most dog owners to visit your establishment again. If you can, add dog-friendly cakes and cupcakes to the menu. Some owners might love to celebrate their dog’s birthday in your pub, and will surely be delighted that they can order a special pastry there.
Set Up Water Bowls
Dogs, especially highly active ones, would require lots of drinking water. If the weather is hot, dogs also need enough water to keep cool. Some owners usually pack up a water bottle and bowl while they’re out with their dog but if you want your pub to be known as a truly dog-friendly establishment, then you need to put up facilities that are convenient for both dogs and their owners.
So, consider strategically placing water bowls on the corners of your pub for dogs to drink from. However, make sure someone is in charge of refilling the water bowls and washing or disinfecting them at certain times of the day. Shared water bowls could easily pass diseases to dogs, and you don’t want your pub to be the source of a dog flu outbreak.
Have A Shaded Area
Rising temperatures can quickly affect dogs and in dire cases, they could get heat stroke. Aside from offering water to drink, it would also help if your pub has shaded areas—especially if you have an al fresco area. Some owners would also like their well-behaved and trained dogs to go off-leash, especially if they are regulars of the pub. A shaded area will be very much appreciated since dogs like a cozy place to lounge or sleep in.
Prepare Poop Bags And Hygienic Wipes
An unfortunate reality of being a dog-friendly establishment is that you have to be prepared to deal with lots of dog poop and pee. Now, most adult dogs are probably house-trained by their owners, but accidents can still happen. Some owners might also be bringing young dogs, and these ones will more likely do their business anywhere.
Most owners would be cautious enough to have their dogs wear a diaper, but situations may arise wherein they’d need a diaper change. So, consider providing poop bags and designate a bin specifically for dog poop, used diapers, and wipes. It’s important to place this bin far away from customers.
Aside from poop bags, have extra wipes and tissues ready, in case the owners need them. Providing these will encourage owners to clean up after their dogs, helping you keep your establishment clean in the process.
Bottom Line
If you want to increase foot traffic to your pub, you could achieve it by making the place as dog-friendly as possible. You can make your pub dog-friendly by incorporating amenities that boost the comfort of both the dog and its owner. This includes setting up water bowls, shaded areas, and even providing poop bags and wipes in case of ‘accidents.’
