NEW YORK (AP) - The winning dog at New York City's Westminster Dog Show will have his day - or his steak - after all.
The city Health Department says it will grant a one-day waiver of its rule against pets in restaurants.
This year's winner, Malachy the Pekingese, enjoyed the traditional victory meal at Sardi's in the theater district on Wednesday. He had his favorite chicken and rice instead of steak.
Malachy was served in a private room away from other diners. But the New York Post reported Thursday the Health Department would force future winners to make do with a doggie bag instead. Health Department spokesman John Kelly says that it won't.
Kelly said Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley will grant a one-day waiver to Sardi's for next year's champion.