BeerShop Rallies To Stay A Dog-Friendly Bar In Oak Park

OAK PARK, IL — The Beer Shop has been a beloved watering hole for Oak Park residents — and their four-legged friends — since 2015. Since January 2018, though, pooches have been prohibited from setting foot inside the once dog-friendly bar because of a complaint from a resident.

The Beer Shop will meet with the villages Department of Health on April 25 to discuss the option of having dogs in the bar. Owners have started a petition and a request for testimonials from customers who have brought their furry friends to the bar for birthdays, holidays, or regular visits to show support for the movement at the upcoming meeting.

The recent puppy prohibition came up after a dog reportedly peed on a carpet inside of the Beer Shop, according to Wednesday Journal. This prompted a review of the village's current ordinance against pets in drinking and dining establishments.

In its petition to allow dogs inside, Beer Shop customers expressed their support with impassioned comments.

"Dogs in the Beer Shop is on of the scarce few things that keep Oak Park from turning into another faceless white bread suburb full of mediocre to middling restaurants, shops, and people who take themselves far too seriously," David L. wrote.

"My wife and I love that we have a place close to home to take our dog Truffles. Dog friendly places are almost non-existent in the village," Neal W. wrote.

Zach I. wrote, "Beer Shop is Piper The Mini Double Doodle’s favorite place to hang out! Don’t keep her out!"

The Beer Shop will make its case to the Board of Health on Tuesday, April 25, at 7 p.m.

Click the link to sign the petition if you'd like to keep dogs in Beer Shop. If you're interested in sending a testimonial, email info@beershophq.com.

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