Have you noticed lately how many folks are now bringing their beloved pets into food markets?
I can’t recall a single time I’ve visited the local Walmart without seeing at least one of our four-legged friends happily squatting in the upper basket of a shopping cart.
While I have my own seven cats and a pit bull mix as part of my extended family, I would never think of bringing them with me on one of my shopping trips. Besides being unsanitary, it’s against the law.
Under California Health and Safety Code § 114259.5, live animals are generally not allowed in any food facility, including grocery stores, restaurants, and farmers markets. This is to prevent contamination and ensure hygienic conditions.
However, dogs trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities are allowed under both California law and the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Emotional support animals do not qualify.
Under California Health and Safety Code § 114259.5, food facilities that allow unauthorized animals may be cited for violating health regulations. This can result in fines, temporary closure and/or mandatory corrective actions such as sanitation procedures or staff retraining.
Dare I say, please leave your pet(s) at home and obey the law. Thanks.
— Peter Stiglich is a Cottonwood resident.
This article originally appeared on Redding Record Searchlight: Obey the law and leave your pet home when grocery shopping | Opinion
Reporting by Peter Stiglich / Redding Record Searchlight
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