SHOPKEEPERS from across the Five Valleys have come together to send a clear message to customers - not only are dogs allowed - they’re welcome!

It comes after the SNJ ran a story about a man who was asked to leave his guide dog outside a number of premises in a number of towns - an incident which other business owners say is not only unusual, but completely unacceptable.

Tony Davey chair of Stroud Chamber of Commerce echoed the sentiment: “Stroud has a vibrant mix of welcoming shops and businesses, many of which welcome dogs where they can.

“It can be easy to misinterpret rules/regulations around restrictions for your business and laws that you must follow in regards to assistance dogs, we urge everyone to familiarise themselves with the law by visiting www.stroudchamber.org.uk”

Do you have a place where you love to take your dog? Or are you a dog-friendly business? If so let us know by emailing your photos to include in our photo gallery to: sarah.watson@newsquest.co.uk