Pets banned at Lafayette Farmer's Market

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Next time you head to the Farmers Market in downtown Lafayette, make sure you leave your dog at home.

City ordinance forbids dogs from entering the market because of food safety concerns. Large signs at the entrance to the market remind guests that pets aren't allowed.

Market organizers said they want to make the public aware so that they don't run the risk of getting a ticket from police.

Lafayette Economic Development Director Dennis Carson said with the crowds at the market, bringing your pet just isn't a good idea.

"We have a very large Farmer's Market and it's also very crowded, so it makes it difficult sometimes in the confined spaces to have animals," said Carson. "With the food that's out in the open and with the amount of people with children and other things, we felt it was in the best interest of the patrons and the vendors and everyone to not allow animals and pets in the market."

Administrators at both the Purdue and Sagamore West Farmers Markets said they allow pets. They said as long as the pets are friendly and on a leash, they are allowed. However, they want owners to be aware that the hot pavement at the markets might hurt their paws.