I might just try taking Alfie places in his dog bag and see what happens. I can understand some shops don't want dogs running around incase they have to 'do their business' but a small dog in a bag or even being carried is not a threat to anyone.
Love the idea about starting up a dog play place both here in England and in America. Why hasn't somebody done it already. I can visualise it being like the soft play indoor places we have in England for tiny tots. You know, ball ponds, slides etc. A place where doggie mums and dads could meet for a coffee.
In the Uk we just can't take our dogs anywhere except the pets at home and some pubs.
So whoever wins the lottery first can set it up.