London is anti-dog - I want mine with me in every shop and restaurant

I ’M NOT being funny but… why in 2023 is London still so behind on dog policies? The latest figures show that there are more than 300,000 dogs in London in 250,000 homes. That’s a staggering nine per cent of households

- Fat Tony

Don’t tell me it’s a licensing problem because I don’t buy that. There are enough establishments, from stores to restaurants, to cafes or hotels that all let in dogs. Now, welcome them! As a long-time dog owner, I’ve seen how the world has moved forward with time. You go to New York and there are dog costume competitions every holiday, you go to Ibiza and virtually every space welcomes dogs with open arms.

I haven’t been to Selfridges in eight months. The last time I did, my cavapoo Reenie joined me. Their policy in particular is the most nonsensical. Dogs can come in. They aren’t, however, allowed to touch the floor — but you aren’t allowed to try on clothes with a dog in your hand. Explain how that works. Selfridges is one of those places you always used to be excited to go to as a kid. You had your once-a-year outing there, or to Harrods or Harvey Nics. Perhaps it was around Christmas so you could buy family members that something a little more special. Whether you go once a year or once a week, it’s an integral part of London’s heritage. Maybe they should focus less on dogs and more on shoplifters. Being followed around by security just doesn’t help.