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When you go out to run errands or just shop for fun, it’s always nice when your four-legged best friend can join along for the adventure. Before taking your dog or cat into a store, it’s essential that you are aware of that store’s pet policy.
Although in a perfect world for pet parents, every store would be pet-friendly, the reality is that each store has its own rules. You may find with large chain stores as well, the rules can vary from one location to the next, so it never hurts to call ahead and double-check that individual store’s policy.
Are you curious which popular stores do and don’t allow pets?
Other pet-friendly stores include Petco, PetSmart, Tractor Supply Co., Bass Pro Shops, The Apple Store, Orvis, and Michael’s.
Though the number of stores that are now pet-friendly continues to increase, many stores still do not allow pets. It can be tempting to take your little dog along with you, especially because they can easily be carried or fit in a bag, but it is best to respect each store policy and follow their established rules. Remember, just because a store does not allow pets inside doesn’t mean they don’t care about our four-legged companions.
For instance, grocery stores and restaurants don’t allow animals simply because of sanitation and health reasons. Even at that, restaurants with outdoor dining options often welcome pets in a designated area. Some will even provide bowls of water or a little treat for your pal.
When looking at which stores are dog-friendly, it can additionally be helpful to check if any of these stores are in a mall. Though the individual store you may want to visit welcomes pets, the mall itself may not, which means you will need to find and use the outdoor entrance, or you may not be able to take your pal at all.
Your feline friend will also need to leave the house to run some necessary errands from time to time. When transporting your cat, it’s essential that you have a secure, appropriately sized carrier for them. For instance, if you are the proud parent of a Maine Coon cat, you may need to purchase a larger carrier than usual.
Your cat may be utterly unbothered by riding in the car and being in new environments, but this can be a stressful process for many cats. A great way to limit their anxiety is to leave their carrier in an easily accessible location, allowing them to enter and exit it whenever they please. By becoming more comfortable with it, they won’t be as prone to only associating their carrier with a veterinary visit.
Whenever it does come time to take your cat to their veterinarian, you can try bringing along a blanket in their carrier for comfort or some treats or food. If your cat is more anxious around other cats or dogs, you can always call your veterinarian’s office beforehand to see if there are many other animals in the waiting room. Your office may also allow you to wait in your car until your appointment time.
Depending upon your cat’s grooming needs, you may also need to take them to their groomers from time to time. Whether your groomer is located in their own facility or located inside a pet store, it is still recommended that you bring your cat in their carrier, especially since there are good odds you will be passing by dogs.
Ahead of taking your pal to the store, take some time to evaluate whether your pet is ready for this new experience. Here are five easy steps to check off before heading out.
If you notice them become more withdrawn from people, anxious, or even showing signs of aggression, that means it’s time to call it a day and head home. A great compromise is to head to the store when they are least busy.
Although these can be kept in your car, your pet may need a quick refreshment between stores. You will also need to make sure that you have the proper leash, collar, and harness for your pal because even the most pet-friendly stores all have strict leash policies. Last but not least, don’t forget to throw in a few poop bags.
If you have a more sociable pet, then chances are they will also want to greet everyone they see, or people may approach you asking to meet your best bud. In other words, if you want a speedy and efficient run to the store, it may be best to leave your friend at home.
It’s always best to play it safe rather than travel to the store and be stuck having to turn around and head back home. Plus, by double-checking the rules ahead of time, you will already be prepared for your next outing with your pet.
Remember, even if you think a store should allow pets, it’s always best to respect the store’s rules concerning pets.
Also, even by being an extra prepared pet parent, sometimes accidents can still happen. However, if you’re in a pet-friendly store, then chances are they have already seen it all and have had other pets have accidents. If you do not have the necessary supplies readily available to clean up any messes, simply find an employee and explain the situation.
Some pets can be sneaky and try to take merchandise off the shelves when your head is turned. Be mindful if your dog chomps down on anything or jumps up on any displays. You may be heading home with some new toys or treats if your pup damages any items.
While not every store is pet-friendly, they all legally allow service animals. The American Disabilities Act (ADA) defines services animals as “dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities.”
Although there are many laws protecting service animals and the rights of their owners (service animals are not considered pets), these laws do not apply to emotion support animals (ESAs). ESAs are differentiated from service animals because they’re not trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities. ESAs are also varied because they can include various types of animals, including some exotic ones, and regular pets can become registered as ESAs.
No matter whether you see a service dog in a non-pet-friendly store or a pet-friendly store, it’s crucial that you do not pet or allow your dog to approach them. When these canines are out in public with their owners, they are working.
The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian.