Following a health inspection at an Old Town juice shop earlier this month, a community petition has launched to allow the business owner’s emotional support animal inside the establishment.
The recent Change.org petition focuses on a recent city investigation into a complaint about dogs inside Zen Press Juice. That includes owner JuAnn Wong’s emotional support dog, Coco, who previously made frequent visits to the shop at 806 King Street.
“For many customers, Coco is not a novelty but a source of calm and reassurance,” the petition reads. “Some individuals visit Zen Cafe specifically because of the comforting presence Coco provides.”
According to a Jan. 7 inspection report, inspector staff “discussed with owner that non-service animals are not permitted in food establishments,” and suggested the owner clarify the shop’s pet-friendly signage only applies to spaces outdoors.
“In most cases, pets like dogs and cats are not allowed indoors at restaurants in Alexandria,” AHD spokesperson Eve Elliott told ALXnow by email. “Operators can apply for a variance (i.e., an exception) from the code to allow pets into their restaurants. This must be approved and renewed each year.”
Elliott noted that repeat violations could lead to a citation. That has led Wong to pause Coco’s visits to the business, prompting the petition’s creation by customer Alisa Miller.
“It is definitely sad to not be able to bring my emotional support animal into my own personal workspace, a space I consider a safe space for myself and many,” Wong told ALXnow. “Unfortunately with constant threats and strict surveillance by the health inspector, I am too afraid to bring Coco with me as I was told tickets/fines can go up to $300. A small business like ours cannot afford to pay that kind of fine all the time.”
Petitioners are asking AHD to work with the juice shop to find an alternative solution. The online petition notes Zen Press helps customers with stress and anxiety relief, which petitioners say Coco plays a role in.
“We ask that you would please respect the role Coco plays at Zen Cafe and allow this community focused establishment to continue operating without threat of closure and additional fines,” the petition reads.
Wong said she was not initially aware of the petition, but expressed gratitude for the people who have signed it.
“I am currently training Coco to perform tasks so that he can be a service dog to myself and many,” Wong said.
According to AHD, service animal owners can have their dog in a food establishment for assistance with a disability. Under the Americans With Disabilities Act, emotional support animals are not considered service animals. City staff are not permitted to request documentation for a service animal, ask about a person’s disability or require the service animal to perform a task.
One exception to the no-pets rule in Alexandria is Mount Purrnon Cat Cafe and Wine Bar, which showcases adoptable cats and sells food and beverages. However, the business must maintain separate areas for its cats and the food and beverages under its special permit.
