A Sydney couple were heavily criticised for leaving their dog sitting on the counter of a Guzman y Gomez branch while they ate.
The couple were photographed eating at the Mexican restaurant in Newtown while their small dog sat next to them on the counter.
The image sparked a storm of outrage in the community after it was posted on Reddit, with many pointing out that while they are dog lovers themselves, it was simply “gross” to leave a dog sitting where customers are eating.
“Dog owners here. This is fucking stupid. I don’t want dog asshole germs in my burrito, por favor,” said one commenter.
“I love dogs but what kind of idiot puts their dog on a table where people are eating! I bet this couple doesn’t pick up the dog poop from the sidewalk either,” wrote another.
Other Reddit users immediately expressed concerns that pet owners believe they can take their furry friends anywhere.
“I don’t hate dogs. But you shouldn’t be able to take them everywhere,” wrote one person
“Your dog will not be scared because you didn’t take him to damn Guzman y Gomez.”
Other commenters offered dog owners a more hygienic option in case they want to take their dog outside to eat in the future.
“I mean, I love dogs. I 100 percent take my dog with me if I go anywhere that allows dogs. I’m all for dogs in public, but this isn’t it,” said one commenter.
“Bring a mat and quietly hide the dog under your chair or table where he won’t get in anyone’s way. Absolutely disgusting behavior.”
In a statement, the restaurant said a shift manager asked guests to take the dog off the bench and leave the restaurant as soon as they noticed the situation.
“It appears another guest took a photo prior to this incident,” the hotel said in a statement to Yahoo.
While many were bothered by the little dog, some said that wiping the table was an easy solution to hygiene problems.
“I guess they’re wiping down the tables guys, no need to worry,” said one Redditor.