FoCo solider, service dog denied at restaurant

A restaurant turned away a Fort Collins soldier because of his service dog, he says.

Major Bob Diggs Brown Jr. is a retired member of the U.S. Army’s Special Armed Forces. Among other projects, Brown works with Veterans Plaza in Fort Collins. He wrote about being denied service at a Chicago restaurant on the organization’s Facebook page:

“We were seated, ordered breakfast, and then the manager, Hanna, came over and told us I would not be served due to having a dog. I explained that Arthur was a service dog and the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) allows service dogs anywhere and she would be violating the law. ‘I don't care’ was her response. We left without causing a scene. Guess this would be a case of ‘No thanks for your service.’”

According to WBBM in Chicago, Brown uses Arthur because of PTSD. Arthur wakes him from nightmares and calms him during anxiety attacks.

Since the incident last week, the French restaurant ChochonVolant has posted an apology to its Facebook page.

“We at Cochon Volant sincerely apologize for the unfortunate situation that occurred yesterday morning at our establishment. We admit with much regret that this situation was handled inappropriately and apologize for the disrespect it has caused. Yesterday's circumstance was a not a true representation of our company policy and we have begun immediate internal review of protocol, training of staff and ADA regulations to ensure this will never happen again.”

Managers added they will be donating to Puppies Behind Bars and Colorado Disabled Veterans, and that they take full responsibility.

Brown wrote on Facebook he accepts the apology but there’s still a lesson. The restaurant will review training with employees.

"No need for free meals. He is doing the right thing. I think many restaurants will learn from this."

He adds many establishments treat him and Arthur graciously.