A Warragul business registered as a cafe has been forced to stop allowing dogs on its premises.
Violet and Ivvy in Queen St, that also sells homewares and decor and operates a wine bar in the building, was found by Baw Baw Shire Council to be in breach of the Food Act and Food Standards Code by permitting dogs inside the premises.
Responses on the Violet and Ivvy Facebook page to the decision to no longer allow dogs - registered therapy and guide dogs are not prohibited - indicate it had been a very popular place for dog owners and their dogs to socialise.
A statement on the page by the business stated that although all food was made off-site and enclosed in an area dogs could not access, it must abide by the relevant acts and would face excessive fines or having the business closed if it did not.
The shire's director of planning and development Leanne Hurst told The Gazette council was required to investigate complaints against registered food premises and had engaged with the proprietor/s of the business on a number of occasions to ensure they were aware of their obligations relating to the Food Act prior to the official warning notice being issued.
She said the warning notice was issued after the third communication and when officers personally observed dogs in the cafe.
Ms Hurst said the shire was aware of the negative commentary online but was required to investigate all complaints and enforce the provisions of the relevant acts and regulations.
Violet and Ivvy on Facebook stated it was sorry to all the valued customers that brought their dogs into the premises.
"Farewell our pooches - you have added so much value to our environment with your visits.
You will all be missed" it said.