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We were warning that this might happen…But as of Sunday July 1st it finally has.
Here’s the deal…
When craft breweries started popping up all over Virginia, they attracted legions of beer fans, many of them accompanied by ‘man’s best friend.’
And as brewing and dogs have long and strongly symbiotic history, they were welcomed by animal-loving breweries who didn’t have a problem with the visiting pets…But the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VADACS) who oversee the laws that govern that realm ABSOLUTELY DID.
According to VADACS the existing law stipulated that no animal is allowed “in any area used for the manufacture of food products, with certain exceptions for guard or guide animals” and that mandate included breweries and wineries.
To remedy this unnatural state of affairs HB 286, legislation allowing dogs to be “inside or on the premises of or inside a licensed distillery, a licensed winery or farm winery, or a licensed brewery or farm brewery, except in any area used for the manufacture or storage of food products,” was proposed by Delegate John Bell (who we’ve decided is the best guy in the world).
Last March that dog-friendly legislation passed the Virginia General Assembly, was signed it into law by Governor Ralph Northam and took effect on July 1st.
Not surprisingly many Virginia breweries and wineries are on board with the legislation according to Virginia’s News Leader…
“Seven Arrows Brewing said they will allow dogs in the taproom and outdoor areas. Basic City Beer Company has allowed dogs all along, so the new law will not cause any changes in its establishment. Basic City even has a designated dog area.”
So it’s safe to say the say that Virginia’s breweries have finally gone to the dogs, and you’ll hear no complaints from this camp.
Dog banner image credit: BrewDog
