It would allow restaurants to obtain a permit giving their customers the choice of dining with their pets in outside seating areas. 

 

   
"It's my favorite thing in the world to do," said Nina Koelmeyer.

About two or three times a week, Nina Koelmeyer spends her time dining out with her two best friends Paco and Stella. Since she lives in Downtown, she goes to places like Big Lou's Pizza where they don't mind the company of her pets. If a formal permitting process were in place, more restaurants might offer the same thing.

  

 

 

 

 

"I would come out more often if more places would allow dogs and it's a great way to socialize," said Koelmeyer.

 

 

In 2006, state lawmakers made it possible for local governments to decide whether or not to permit doggie dining. 

The idea of doggie dining in Gainesville started right here in The Warehouse restaurant in Downtown.  The general manager says that he found out that residents in other areas like Tampa and Miami can enjoy eating out with their dog at different restaurants.
As well as Ocala, which approved it two years ago. Last October Ryan Premdas, the general manager at The Warehouse, approached the city commission about enacting an ordinance in Gainesville. 

 

 

"I had an objection with something I wanted to have people come into, so I wanted to get clarification and through my search for clarification, we been doing this whole process," said Premdas.
 

 

Some residents don;t seem to mind this doggie dining idea. 

 

"I know a lot of people who all have dogs and we go to the park together. If we could go out afterwards catch a bite to eat and then bring our dogs with us, so we don't all have to go home drop them off and then go out, it be great," said dog owner James Rosborough.
 

 

Other residents believe this is a great way for businesses to get more customers.

 

 

"There are so many dog owners in this place, and I mean what a great business opportunity to have more patios where they allow dogs," said Koelmeyer.

So Paco and Stella can enjoy a couple more days together around Downtown Gainesville.

 

Doggie dining was supposed to be discussed at the Gainesville city commission meeting, but it was pulled from the agenda because the proposal wasn't quite ready. It may be discussed next month. 

By: Yaremi Farinas