A Subway sandwich outlet in New York has issued an apology after it received criticism for reportedly turning away a blind customer just because he brought his guide dog.
The customer, a local musician named Milton Kuna, told NBC NY that he was with his seeing-eye dog Nash when he visited the sandwich restaurant’s shop on North Main Street in New City, New York on Monday night. He claimed that he was turned away by the store’s staff who told him that dogs of any kind weren’t allowed.
“As soon as I opened the door, one guy said ‘no dogs in here,'” said Kuna.
The “Americans With Disabilities Act”, however, prevents banning a service animal like Nash.
“It’s very important our business owners know what the law is, and that they follow the law,” Town of Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehman was quoted as saying.
A formal complaint has since been filed, Rockland County Executive Ed Day said, noting that an investigation by the police is at hand.
“There’s a guy. He’s blind. He has a service dog to guide him,” said Day. “Common sense should tell you that you don’t throw the people out.”
When Kuna returned to the store the following day, he was greeted by a very apologetic staff.
Saeed Akhtar, the store’s owner, later released a statement:
“Service animals are always welcome in my shops. This was a mistake by a new employee who was not aware of the law. I would also like to invite the customer to come to my restaurant for lunch so I can apologize.”
Images via NBC 4 NY
