Reply #47: Sacred use is one thing, making it so I can't breathe in another. [View All]

Here in Michigan, it's illegal to prohibit smoking in restaurants and bars (referendum passed a few years back and was struck down as unconstitutional). There are only a few smoke-free restaurants in our area, and we go to them. As for the others, I have to make sure I sit far away from any smokers. I can't breathe around it. My asthma kicks in, and I'm wheezing and turning blue, so I have to leave.

I look at it like this: I love my dog. He has separation anxiety but is fine if he goes in the car with me. I could say that he helps me feel better with all of my health problems and try bringing him into stores and restaurants, but we'd get kicked out. Is it discrimination against dog owners? Sure, but it makes sense. There are people who are deeply allegic to dogs or seriously phobic of dogs, and I cannot make sure that my dog will never, ever, ever attack anyone. I don't think he would, but I cannot guarantee it beyond the shadow of any doubt. Why should I submit everyone around me to having to deal with my dog, especially if people can't breathe around him?