At cafes and restaurants, it’s not uncommon to see customers bringing pets, from small, adorable dogs to cats carried in their arms. Even with clearly posted signs such as “No pets allowed inside” or “Please leave your pets outside,” some guests still ignore the requests.

Minh, the owner of a coffee shop in Hanoi, shared that his shop has a large “No Pets” sign at the entrance. Not long ago, during a busy weekend evening, a group of young customers arrived with a small dog.

“I was busy making drinks when I noticed them. I politely reminded them that pets aren’t allowed indoors, especially in air-conditioned areas, to ensure hygiene and avoid disturbing other customers,” Minh recounted.

A customer was visibly upset, insisting the dog was well-behaved, clean, and wouldn’t bother anyone. “Why can’t the shop be flexible? Where am I supposed to leave it?” the customer raised his voice. Other patrons in the shop turned to watch the situation unfold.

Minh explained that being too firm risked losing customers or receiving negative online reviews. However, allowing the dog inside would affect other patrons. Ultimately, he suggested the group move to another café with an outdoor area if they couldn’t leave the pet elsewhere.

Trang, the owner of an upscale coffee shop in Ba Dinh, said her shop also has a clear signage. Yet, when staff gently remind customers about the pet policy, they often face pushback. Some even retort loudly: “It’s cleaner than some people!”

“Being strict risks losing customers or sparking conflict. But staying silent disturbs other patrons and undermines our own rules,” she said.

On social media platforms, bringing pets into coffee shops and restaurants has sparked heated debates. Some users argue it’s a personal freedom, especially since they view pets as “family members.” One commenter wrote: “My dog is well-behaved. If a shop bans pets, I won’t come back.”

Conversely, many express frustration with this behavior. Another user commented: “The shop has a no-pet sign, yet people still bring dogs or cats. Not everyone loves your pets as much as you do.”

Banning pets in indoor eateries and coffee shops, especially air-conditioned areas, is a common rule in many countries for food safety and respect for other customers. However, pressure to retain customers often forces shop owners to be flexible and turn a blind eye.

This situation not only annoys other patrons but also raises hygiene concerns. Some customers with pet allergies have voiced frustration over health risks.

Handling such situations requires tact from staff, but not all employees have the skills or confidence to address customers diplomatically. Some shops have tried solutions like designating pet-friendly zones, but not every venue has the space to do so.

Duy Anh