A video recorded on 23/12 showing a dog licking food from a customer's plate at a restaurant in Thailand sparked widespread controversy. Many opinions suggested that animals near dining tables could compromise food safety and hygiene.

According to Khaosod newspaper, the restaurant in the video is Ko-Ya, located in Bangkok, Thailand. It is known as a pet-friendly establishment. The owner stated that this policy was adopted at customers' request, as many consider their pets family members and wish to dine with them.

The video of a dog eating at the same table as people sparked controversy. Source: Than Pao

Ko-Ya confirmed that pet bowls, dishes, and utensils are kept separate, washed at high temperatures, and pet food is prepared according to specific hygiene standards. Allowing pets to eat at the same table is optional; customers who prefer not to share a table can choose another area. The restaurant also regularly cleans tables, chairs, and disinfects its premises.

Despite these measures, the policy continues to generate debate. Many express concern that dogs could carry bacteria or parasites, affecting food safety. Conversely, some views suggest that sharing meals with pets fosters a friendly image, reflecting the close bond between humans and animals.

Globally, pet-friendly restaurant models are not uncommon, but their implementation varies. In the United States and Canada, many cafes and restaurants permit dogs to accompany their owners, typically in outdoor areas.

Shake Shack, a fast-food chain in the US, offers a "Woof" menu for dogs, featuring small versions of snacks and drinks for pets. In Portland, Oregon, the Tin Shed Garden Cafe is renowned as a dog-friendly restaurant, offering a spacious outdoor patio and a dedicated menu for pets.

Diners share a meal with their pet dog at Ko-Ya restaurant. Photo: Ko-Ya

In Europe, cities like Berlin and Rome also feature many pet-friendly restaurants where pets are allowed to stay next to their owners, receive water, and sometimes snacks, but they are rarely placed on the dining table with guests.

Similarly, in Asian locations such as Singapore and Hong Kong, many establishments allow pets to accompany their owners, primarily in outdoor seating areas. Some places provide separate spaces for water and snacks for dogs.

The case of Ko-Ya restaurant reflects the expanding trend of pet-friendly restaurants across many countries. However, the methods of implementation differ significantly. Most venues only permit dogs to be near their owners, primarily in outdoor areas, and offer separate menus. Allowing pets to eat at the same table with guests remains rare and controversial. This situation highlights the balance between the desire to personalize the dining experience and the requirements for hygiene and food safety, not only in Thailand but internationally.

International experts and organizations have issued numerous warnings about health risks when pets come into contact with dining areas. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that pets can carry zoonotic pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and parasites. It recommends pet owners wash their hands after touching pets and avoid letting them lick faces or wounds.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that diseases transmitted from animals account for over 60% of human infectious diseases, cautioning about the risk of spread via surfaces, saliva, or feces. Many public health studies also note that human health risks are low if restaurants implement strict hygiene, but it is still necessary to avoid direct contact between pets and human food or dishes.

By Mai Phuong (According to Khaosod, Thaiiger)