Sheila Dean, a 75-year-old pensioner with anxiety, was barred from two different Wetherspoons pubs because of her emotional support dog, Daisy. Daisy is a Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier cross known as a Shorkie. Sheila, a regular at Wetherspoons, was told that emotional support dogs are not allowed in the establishments, even though it had never been an issue before. The staff explained that some customers find emotional support dogs threatening, so only official assistance animals like guide dogs are permitted inside. Sheila was devastated by the situation, particularly since Daisy helps her cope with the loss of her mother and husband, providing her with much-needed confidence.
During a recent visit to the Eric Bartholomew Wetherspoons in Morecambe, Lancashire, Sheila was told she couldn’t bring Daisy inside because some customers might find the dog alarming. A similar incident occurred when she wanted to visit The Twelve Tellers in Preston. Sheila was frustrated by the bans, as she believes Daisy is well-behaved and has never caused any problems in the past. Despite carrying the necessary training documentation for Daisy, she was still refused entry. The situation has left Sheila worried about being able to visit her cousin in Preston, who recently had a triple heart bypass, as she relies on Daisy for her own peace of mind.
Wetherspoons’ policy regarding dogs in their pubs only allows official assistance dogs, such as guide dogs, to accompany patrons. Emotional support dogs are not classified the same way and are not permitted entry. The company explains that this rule is due to the potentially unpredictable behavior of dogs in busy places, as well as the fact that some customers may have allergies or fears of dogs. The policy, implemented since September 2018, aims to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests, particularly those with disabilities or medical conditions, who rely on assistance animals. Wetherspoons has recently reiterated their stance on their website and to their staff, confirming that emotional support dogs are not allowed.
While there is no law prohibiting dogs from entering shops, banks, or local businesses, individual retailers have the discretion to allow or disallow them. Many supermarkets across the UK, including major retailers like Marks & Spencer, Primark, and Next, only permit assistance dogs on their premises due to the Equality Act. However, there are several stores and establishments that are dog-friendly, including John Lewis, Oliver Bonas, and various independent retailers, cafes, and pubs. Some high street clothing stores like White Stuff, H&M, and Zara also allow dogs in certain locations, although it ultimately depends on the branch manager’s decision.
Sheila’s experience has reignited the debate around dogs in public spaces and the rights of individuals with emotional support animals. While Wetherspoons maintains their strict policy regarding dogs in their pubs, some retailers and businesses across the UK are more accommodating to canine companions. The decision on whether to allow dogs into premises often varies between establishments, with some adhering to a strict no dogs policy, except for assistance animals. As the trend towards dog-friendly businesses continues to grow, it’s important for individuals like Sheila to be aware of the rules in different locations to ensure they can enjoy the company of their beloved pets while out and about.
