BOSTON -- The Boston City Council may to muzzle businesses that want to rent pets to Hub residents.

Video: Ban Pet Rentals?

A proposed ban on companies that own dogs and rent them out will be debated on Monday afternoon.

Businesses such as FlexPetz have been invited to attend the hearing.

FlexPetz, which is currently in New York, Los Angeles and London, pairs pet lovers with rescued dogs for "Daily Doggy Time." Now, the company wants to move into the Boston market.

According to the company's Web site, after paying a $100 initiation fee, which includes a mandatory training session, people can rent a variety of dogs. It costs $45 per day for a minimum of four days per month. That is on top of a $100 monthly membership fee.

"I think it's good for people to know what it's like to take care of a dog, because it is a lot of work," dog owner Leigh Foster said.

"Why not give it a try? They are great companions, and it could be good for both parties, so I am for it," dog owner Kristin Valentine said.

City officials, including Mayor Tom Menino, said that they are opposed to the idea. Menino called the concept inhumane.

"I don't think they should entertain the idea of renting dogs. That is not the proper thing," Menino said.