Dog owners in Quebec can look forward to enjoying outdoor dining with their pets as a new law permits dogs on restaurant terraces. This amendment, part of Bill 85, allows establishments to welcome dogs without penalties, boosting tourism and enhancing experiences for travelers with pets. While guidelines from the Ministry of Agriculture are forthcoming, resources are available for pet-friendly accommodations. The initiative marks a step forward in making Quebec a more dog-friendly destination.
Exciting News for Dog Owners in Quebec
Dog lovers in Quebec are in for a treat as the terrace season approaches, allowing them to spend quality time outdoors with their furry friends. Gabrielle Néron-Grondin, a proud owner of Samie, an Australian shepherd, expresses her excitement: “We’ll finally be able to enjoy outings with our dog! Until now, it was quite tricky because of his size, and we didn’t want to leave him alone in our hotel room.” This change promises to make family outings much more enjoyable for pet owners across the region.
New Legislation Opens Doors for Dogs on Terraces
After years of advocacy, a significant amendment permitting dogs on terraces has been passed as part of Bill 85. Beginning this summer, restaurant owners can now welcome dogs on their outdoor patios without the fear of penalties from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food (MAPAQ).
Dominique Tremblay, Director of Public and Government Affairs at the Quebec Restaurant Association (ARQ), shares the positive implications of this amendment: “This is fantastic news for the tourism sector; customers have long desired this change. Restaurant owners will have the discretion to decide whether or not to allow dogs in their establishments.”
Diane Angers from Toutourisme Québec highlights the importance of this law, stating that while some restaurants were flexible in accommodating dogs, many chose to restrict access due to the fear of fines. “Once the bill is officially accepted, we can expect guidelines from MAPAQ. If all goes well, we should be able to enjoy this new freedom starting this summer,” she adds.
Boosting Tourism and Economic Opportunities
Véronyque Tremblay, President and CEO of the Quebec Hotel Association (AHQ), comments on the economic benefits: “This change will enhance the experience for tourists coming from Europe, the United States, or even fellow Quebec residents who travel with their pets.” Meanwhile, Véronique Pelletier, a Longueuil resident and owner of a young corgi named Dobby, acknowledges that while this is a significant step, more work is needed. “Other provinces and states have embraced pet-friendly policies, making travel easier for dog owners. In some areas of Quebec, like Mauricie, it’s still a challenge to travel with a dog,” she notes.
The Estrimont resort in Orford, which has always allowed dogs on its premises, welcomes this legislative change. Celine Denry, General Manager of Estrimont, states, “This is a great development that will create new opportunities. Canine tourism has been growing steadily over the years.” The Quebec Hotel Association also hints at future initiatives, expressing interest in testing a pilot project for hoteliers willing to accommodate dogs in dining areas.
Essential Information for Pet Owners
Bill 85, officially titled “An Act to amend various provisions mainly for the purpose of alleviating the regulatory and administrative burden,” permits individuals to bring their dogs to outdoor public areas with the operator’s consent. While an official list of pet-friendly restaurants is not yet available, some establishments may display logos indicating their pet-friendly status.
For those looking to travel with their beloved pets, resources such as the Facebook page “Everywhere with Pitou,” the BringFido app, and the Toutourisme Québec page can provide valuable assistance.