Florida doggies no longer need bags

Published Sunday, June 4, 2006

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) - At just 1 year old, Theo had already turned to a life of crime.

The tiny Yorkie would sneak into restaurants inside his owner’s bag, usually undetected, but he and Marcy Richardson were occasionally kicked out. Now the 26-year-old Richardson and Theo can stop worrying and start chowing down.

Gov. Jeb Bush on Friday signed the so-called "doggie-dining" bill, which allows local governments to let restaurants permit dogs to eat with their owners outside.

Florida health regulations previously prevented all dogs except service animals from joining patrons al fresco, although several restaurants ignored the rules until local regulators started cracking down last year.

Rep. Sheri McInvale, an Orlando Republican, filed the bill after some complained they were threatened with fines.

The measure creates a three-year pilot program, and the state will determine whether to continue it. Allowing dogs to dine will be up to each county, and even if it’s allowed, restaurant owners will still decide individually whether to participate.