Filipino restaurant Balay Dako faces backlash after refusing entry to an aspin (Filipino dog), despite advertising itself as “pet-friendly.”
In a now-viral post, dog owner Lara Antonio shared her experience on social media, detailing how her aspin, Yoda, was initially allowed inside but was later denied entry due to the restaurant’s alleged size restrictions.
Antonio questioned the restaurant’s definition of a “medium-sized dog,” arguing that Yoda, weighing 18 kilograms, should meet their criteria. However, the restaurant’s manager stated that, according to their standards, medium-sized dogs weigh between 10 and 15 kilograms, a specification not mentioned in the restaurant’s pet guidelines.
“The manager came, took me aside, and I asked her, ‘Can you show me exactly where it says online or on social media that it’s up to 15 kg only?’ She says, ‘On FB lang po,’” Antonio wrote.
The incident sparked outrage online, with many criticizing the restaurant for “breed discrimination.” Aspins, or asong Pinoy, are mixed-breed local dogs.
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) issued a statement on Monday, Sept. 9, condemning the restaurant’s actions and expressing disappointment. It emphasized the importance of treating all animals with respect and dignity, regardless of breed.
“Such actions reflect a troubling disregard for the respect and dignity that all animals deserve, regardless of their breed,” the statement read.
In response, Balay Dako reaffirmed its commitment to being pet-friendly but acknowledged the need to review its policies to ensure they are clear, fair, and inclusive. The restaurant also stated it would take steps to train its staff better to understand and implement these policies effectively.
“As a company that loves animals, we understand the importance of accommodating pets. However, we must also consider factors such as space and the safety of all our guests,” the statement read.
“We are currently reviewing our policy to ensure it is clear, fair, and balances the needs of both pet owners and non-pet owners. Additionally, we will take steps to ensure that our staff are better trained and guided to understand and implement our policies effectively,” it continued.
However, the restaurant’s response was met with further criticism, with many questioning its reasoning for denying entry to Yoda and its commitment to being pet-friendly. Some pointed out that the restaurant has a basement dining area specifically for pet owners and that other breeds, such as labradors, were allowed inside despite being larger than Yoda.
