It's law that assistance dogs are permitted anywhere that the public can go. These dogs will know they are "working" and will usually be impeccably behaved. They will not engage with others around them, and my cousin's guide dog was never to be petted by strangers while she was working. Few family pets are trained to the same high degree, and that's where problems start. Maybe it should be a requirement for all establishments to display a clear sign as to whether or not they accept dogs ( other than assistance dogs) My son is severely allergic to cats and dogs (amongst other animals) and can suffer a frightening asthma attack after the briefest contact. The animal doesn't even have to be present, some symptoms will appear, swollen eyes, laboured breathing, in a place where one has been and shed hair or dander. He of course understands the needs of an assistance dog and owner take priority over him.