A Greggs customer’s frustration with being told to leave because she had brought a dog inside has sparked a debate about whether pets should be allowed in pastry shops.

Rebecca Trimell relied on the kindness of a stranger who bought a sandwich for her after staff at a Gloucester branch of the national chain told her and pet Pablo to get out.

She says that Greggs should be more dog-friendly and not discriminate against pet owners.

This split opinion among Adver readers, with most commenters taking the sausage roll seller’s side.

Catherine Tanner-Williams said: “’Discriminate against pet owners’?

“How about entitled dog owners realise that lots of people just want to be left alone.

“We don't want your dog licking us or our sausage rolls. We don't want to get jumped on or scratched while we queue.

Lorraine Toddington added: “Well done Greggs! Too many dog friendly shops, pubs, restaurants etc, have no respect for those of us with allergies or families with children scared of dogs.

“Why on earth do people think their dogs enjoy a trip to a shopping centre or sitting under a table in pubs watching their owners fill their faces with food - a type of animal cruelty in my opinion. Only guide-dogs should be allowed.”

David Cowan said: “It’s a food shop! Animals shouldn't be allowed in food shops!”

Steph Lou went a step further: “All shops, restaurants, and food premises should have a zero dog policy with the only exception being guide dogs.”

Avril Jones disagreed: “No they shouldn’t. Most dogs are much cleaner than most people.

“Would you tie a child up outside while you shop? Dogs are family members and the vast majority are totally disease free and cleaner than the vast majority of kids.”

Lisa Carver said: “I wouldn't take my dog into any food establishment, unless it's a pub garden . No need for anyone to change their rules for entitled people.”

Simon Lansdowne added: “Countless dog owners, including us, except the rules, understand why they are there. Having a pet comes with responsibility and limitations, that is only correct.

“Why should the world kowtow to this one entitled individual?”

Margaret Austin agreed: “This is perfectly understandable. Not all dogs can be relied upon to behave.”

Jo Holohan said: “I wouldn't take my dog everywhere but many country pubs rely on people taking their dogs, otherwise they wouldn't have any customers. No need for a blanket ban across the board [but] agree the majority of food places, restaurants and shops, yes.”

Stephen Sowerby disagreed: “It still staggers me how the UK is perceived as an animal loving country.

“If your furry companion is friendly, clean and well behaved then there is no reason for these ridiculous attitudes. If my Juno isn't allowed in, why is some snotty nosed brat who is screaming the place down allowed in?”

David Huddy said: “Real shame, I've stood next to, behind and in front of creatures in Greggs that we're far worse behaved than any dog.”

Steve Rowland said: “I agree with Greggs. There are products on shelves that are at dog nose level.

“Any food store should never allow dogs in and you will find that there is not a company that delivers food that allows a dog in the cab let alone the back of the vehicle.”

Dave Mobey suggested: “Go to Germany, dogs are allowed everywhere, from the biggest department store in Europe to the lowly pastry shop.”

Alex Jones summarised: “They’re not allowed in the shops for a reason, it’s because of food hygiene reasons and was policy even when I worked there years ago.

“If it is a service dog or an assistant dog the members of staff are allowed to challenge anyone who brings in an assistance dog and are allowed to ask by policy.”

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