Where can a lonely parrot go to party?

Dear Fisher,

There is an event called Parrots in the Park in Orlando, but I like to go outside to all sorts of events with my human parents and they like to take me everywhere. There are dog parks for dogs, but few places to bring your feathered companions. Even when there are places to go, it’s very hard to find if they are bird friendly. I love going with them to outside cafe’s and restaurants, but it’s so hard to find ones that let us eat there. We try to find dog friendly outdoor eating, and that helps, but we’d love to be able to find more places we can go and enjoy life with our humans, or go and eat with them. They love to share food with us! Do you have suggestions for pets other than dogs who want to get out and about with their humans?

Baby

Dear Baby,

I have been pondering the issue for a long time. I do not go out much, so I had to consult my human. She has had several sightings of “the other pets” in and around St. Pete. Down at the Pier, she sat next to a man with a tiny monkey tucked into his shirt She reports several sightings of a humans walking around John’s Pass with their birds, several birds and an occasional cat at the Saturday Morning Market, ferrets at the recent Pet Walk in St. Pete, and even a nice young couple pushing a baby stroller along Bay Drive with a chimpanzee in it!

My friends at Pet Friendly Travel report news for people and pets traveling around the country:
Hollywood, CA, July 14, 2006 — Florida passed a “Doggie Dining Law” in June, Austin, TX got one in March, New York City allows pets to accompany their owners at outdoor dining spots, and Chicago’s restaurateurs are lobbying for similar approval. Meanwhile, California’s well-established business in letting pets join their owners while dining al-fresco makes that state a leader of the doggie-dining pack. Across the nation, more and more eateries and watering holes are joining the ranks of pet-friendly establishments – increasing dining choices for pet owners, and adding an upscale revenue stream for hospitality owners.

There are 2 important things to take from the above statement. First is the reference to “Doggie Dining” and second is the generic use of “pets”. While the world is moving forward with their love and concern for pets in general, it seems the dog population has a much bigger lobby. That does not mean we “other pets” have to assume we are not welcome. To affect change, we need to ask for change. If we are all willing to show up for dinner and run the risk of getting asked to leave, we will eventually sort out which eateries are willing to let us share their venues. FloridaPets is an excellent source for pet friendly places in Florida.

We must show up at the plate with excellent behavior and dignity. Respect for other guests is of utmost importance. Plan to practice a few rules of etiquette. Keep 2 (or 4) feet on the ground at all times while dining out. If it means you are to stay under the table, then so be it. Never eat or drink out of a vessel used for the people guests. It is best to bring your own bowl and utensils. Do not fraternize with guests or staff unless you are welcomed to do so. By all means, do not make noise or purposely draw attention to yourself. Ask your humans to be very friendly with staff and tip generously.

Change takes time and can happen with small consistent steps. Go forth into the world, Baby. I hope to see you out and about and maybe we can do lunch sometime.

Your friend,

Fisher

published in tbt* Tampa Bay