NEW YORK (AP) Never mind the doggie bag: Spot wants a seat at the outdoor table, or rather under it.
New York is considering whether to join a growing number of states that allow pet dogs at open-air eateries. After getting a unanimous OK from the state Senate, advocates are pressing its Assembly to sign on.
Dog lovers and restaurateurs say the proposal would safely accommodate people who want to dine out with man's best friend in places from Manhattan sidewalk cafes to dairy country ice cream stands.
But a health officials' group opposes it. And at least one lawmaker raises questions. Some restaurant-goers fear begging, barking, biting and other doggie don'ts - or, worse, doggie dos.
States including California, Florida and Maryland have opened restaurant patios to dogs within the last decade.