Though it's not the first establishment in Calgary to offer a dog-friendly patio, Oak Tree Lounge in the Kensington neighbourhood of the city is the first business to be approved for a dog-friendly patio thus far in 2018. Not to be confused with its upstairs tavern space and patio, the street-level patio was constructed last year in the narrow alleyway adjacent to the dual-concept's building. Because the patio can be accessed without entering the building, owner Stuart Connor says the process to get the patio approved was relatively smooth and he was more than happy to do so.
"I felt like there was a really need for this in Kensington," explains Oak Tree Lounge and Tavern owner Stuart Connor. "Walk around the neighbourhood and you'll see so many dogs that just sit outside, tied up against a bike rack or a fence. It helps to keep people aware of how long their dogs are tied up in the sun, and who doesn't love dogs? It's just natural to want to have your dog right by your side."
Connor's business is also partaking in Negroni Week, and to keep in the dog-friendly state of mind, sales from the lounge's bulldog-inspired feature Negroni sees proceeds going to Muttville, an organization that focuses specifically on senior dog rescue.
Other places with patios that allow dogs include Ranchman's Cookhouse and Dancehall and Vin Room (Sunday through Wednesday only)
