OkcPets Magazine March 2021

36 OKC Pets • March/April 2021 D ue to the COVID-19 pandemic, pet ownership has experienced exponential growth with dogs being the number one choice to add to our families. The lockdown has provided a benefit for many animals that we now consider companions and direct members of our families. Recent studies have shown that our attitudes toward pets have drastically changed for the bet- ter. We now see them as companions with which we are building a symbiotic relationship. One particular study by the Waltham Foundation shows that 60% thought their pet had helped them maintain a regular routine, and 43% said that their animal had reduced their anxiety. Now more than ever before, pets are truly an integral part of many families. I say all of that to point out the fact that our restaurant/patio review is the only actual review of the real pet friendliness of restaurants in the OKC metro, Norman and Edmond areas. Dog Friendly or Dog Tolerant? We take small groups of dogs and owners from the Midtown Mutts Dog Park and go out to review any restaurants that claim to be dog friendly. If you have followed this review for any time at all, you are aware there is a big difference between dog friendly and dog tolerant. Now that COVID-19 vaccines are being distributed regularly, many restaurants are racing to regain a steady customer base. Many of these same restaurants claim to be dog friendly when in all actuality they are, at best, dog tolerant. They are even aided in this market manipulation through websites like Yelp and Trip Advisor that allow them to just check whether they permit dogs or not. None verify if they truly are dog friendly. That is where we (Friends of Midtown Mutts Dog Park) come in; our review is the only true, accurate review in regard to whether a restaurant is pet friendly, pet tolerant or neither. I want to be able to share my life with my pups just as I am sure all of you feel the same way. I also choose to spend my money where my family (in my case, Jake and Lancelot) is also accepted. 5 Paws for Hacienda Tacos Situated south of the stately homes of the historic Heritage Hills and Mesta Park districts, but far enough north of the hustle and bustle of downtown, you will find the pedestrian and pet-friendly streets of the Midtown area— known for its renowned eateries and extremely lively dining scene. The Friends of Midtown Mutts decided to try a restaurant that opened in the area at the start of the pandemic, which is also within walking distance of the dog park. Saturday afternoon, our small group of restaurant reviewers gathered at the dog park to WRITTEN BY: Michael Bell Pet-Friendly Review: Patio 5 Paw Review! H A C I E N D A T A C O S Taco Tuesday Margarita