"Thanks to the heartfelt dedication and involvement of individuals and communities throughout the state, Floridians will be able to dine out with their entire family - including their dogs," said Governor Bush. "Now, man's best friend can enjoy Florida's fine dining too."
— Governor Jeb Bush
Governor Bush placed his signature on the "Doggie Dining" Bill - (SB1172), launching a three-year pilot program that allows restaurants to permit dogs to join their owners while dining. The law limits patrons with dogs to designated outdoor areas of restaurants. Only restaurants within the municipalities that adopt the measure may participate. Local governments must regulate and enforce all of the state's health, food and safety standards before allowing dogs in outdoor areas of food service establishments.
Mighty Marvin, the Governor's 11-year-old black Labrador passed away two days before the "Doggie Dining" Bill, was signed on June 2, 2006 by Governor Jeb Bush. Dixie Cup, a 5-year-old Yorkshire Terrier provided the seconding paw.
Marvin loved to eat and he nearly destroyed the set of a 1998 campaign commercial featuring a picnic table laid out with tasty treats. His formal training classes momentarily lapsed.
Marvin died after suffering for months from cancer. His last wishes were clear to all, "Don't bark when a bite to eat will do." He also understood the strength of bipartisan support and felt that a small dog signing the "Doggie Dining" Bill would best reflect the coming together of all pets, large and small. Family cats, Sugar & Cee-Cee, were given final licks and it was noted that although they picked fights with him, he "never lifted a paw" in retaliation.
WOOF Patrol: On behalf of all dog owners and pet lovers, would like to thank you, Governor, for signing the "Doggie Dining" Bill. Your heartfelt dedication towards enhancing the quality of life for families, inclusive of their dogs, is greatly appreciated.
GOVERNOR JEB BUSH: "Marvin was a wonderful dog and an important part of my family. He is deeply missed."
WOOF Patrol: "Thank you for your time Governor Bush."
|
Send this article to a friend
