If you're like most pet owners, you love taking your furry friend along when you go shopping. But if you've ever had to leave them in the car while you run into the store, you know how frustrating it can be.
That's why more and more stores are becoming pet-friendly, making it easier for both Fido and his human to hit the aisles together. Here's a list of some of our favorite pet-friendly stores in town.
Tips To Ensure Your Trips Goes Great
Below, we've compiled a list of tips to make sure your next shopping trip with your pet goes off without a hitch.
1. Check Pet Policies Before You Go
Different pet stores have different pet policies, so it's important to look up the policy for specific locations before bringing your pet inside. Most store policies are available on their website, but if you can't find them or aren't sure, give the store a call.
If you're ever having trouble finding information like pet policies, don't hesitate to give the store a call. Most stores will have a customer service line that would be more than happy to help you out and provide all of the information that you need.
2. Bring Along the Essentials
No matter where you're headed, it's always a good idea to bring along some pet essentials. This includes things like:
-A leash so you can keep them close by
-Treats to reward them for being good
-A toy or two to keep them entertained
3. Choose The Right Time And Right Place For Your Dog
Not all pets are comfortable in busy places like shopping malls. If your dog is easily overwhelmed, it might be best to leave them at home.
That being said, some pets love the hustle and bustle of a store. If this is the case for your pup, try to go during off-peak hours. This will make the experience less overwhelming for them (and you!).
4. Socialize Your Dog Before You Go
If you know you'll be taking your dog shopping with you in the near future, start socializing them now. This means exposing them to different types of people, places, and experiences. The more they're exposed to, the better they'll handle new situations.
5. Have A Backup Plan
Even if you've followed all of the above tips, there's always a chance that your pet might not do well in the store. If this happens, don't be afraid to cut the trip short and head home. It's better to leave early than to force them to stay somewhere they're uncomfortable.
6. Give Other Shoppers A Right Of Way
This one is more for you than your dog, but it's important nonetheless. When you're shopping with your pet, be aware of the other shoppers around you. If someone looks like they might not be comfortable around pets, give them a wide berth. It's always better to err on the side of caution.
7. Be Prepared To Clean Up
Even if your dog is the best-behaved pup in the world, accidents happen. It's important to be prepared for them by bringing along some pet-friendly cleaners and paper towels. This way, you can clean up any messes as quickly as possible and get back to enjoying your shopping trip.
We hope these tips help make your next shopping trip with your pet a success!
List Of Pet-Friendly Retail Stores 2022
Store policies are ever-changing. If the store you are visiting is a chain, then the pet policies may actually vary from store to store. We made this list of cat and dog-friendly stores so you can shop with your pet.
Tractor Supply
Tractor Supply is a great place for dog-friendly shopping. The store carries supplies for all types of animals, including poultry and livestock. All breeds and sizes of dogs are allowed in the store, however, they only accept leashed dogs.
Home Depot
Home Depot is pet-friendly as long as your animal companion is on a leash and well-behaved. Note that store visits may involve exposure to large machinery, which could be scary for dogs who aren't used to such stimuli.
Bed Bath and Beyond
Bed Bath and Beyond is the perfect place to bring your dog next time you need some new candles or want to explore different towel options. As long as your furry friend is on a leash, they are welcome in the store! This way, your pup can help you with all of your important decision-making.
The Gap
A few of Gap's sister stores, like Old Navy and Madewell, are also pet-friendly. However, while you're busy trying on that new pair of jeans, your dog will need to remain by your side on a leash. Keep in mind that Gap stores can get crowded and often play loud music, so before bringing them in, make sure your furry friend will be comfortable amidst all the commotion.
Best Buy
Just like Target, Best Buy's pet policy isn't immediately clear. However, many stores are pet-friendly as long as your animal is on a leash. If you're unsure of the policy, try contacting your local store or asking a manager upon arrival.
Barnes And Noble
The next time you're in the Barnes and Noble store, make sure to bring your furry friend along! They allow dogs inside the store (as long as they are kept on a leash), so it's the perfect place to browse for books with your pet by your side. However, note that this policy does not extend to any of the cafes located inside Barnes and Noble stores.
Lowes
Although not specified on their website, Lowes most likely follows a policy similar to Home Depot's when it comes to pets in the store. It might be a good idea to call your local establishment before bringing your furry friend along. Also, take into account that hardware stores are generally quite noisy places--something to keep in mind when determining whether or not Lowes is an animal-friendly environment.
Bloomingdales
Bloomingdales is a great place to shop for pet-friendly products, like clothes and collars. However, your dog will need to stay by your side on a leash at all times. Unfortunately, Bloomingdales does not have any in-store cafes, so make sure you stop for a puppy treat before or after your shopping trip
Pottery Barn
Pottery Barn is the perfect place to bring your furry friend shopping, as they happily allow dogs of any size into their stores. They do require that your pet be leashed at all times and stay close to you, but this could be a great opportunity to take Fido shopping for new patio furniture.
Nordstrom
Nordstrom may not be the first luxury retailer that comes to mind when you think of pet-friendly stores, but they actually have one of the most lenient policies. In fact, their social media has a specific hashtag showcasing customers' furry friends while they shop! All Nordstrom requires is that your pup is leashed and doesn't disturb other customers.
Is Your Dog Ready For A Trip To The Store?
Although many stores are now dog-friendly, that doesn't mean it's always a good idea to bring your pup inside with you. Consider how they will act in an environment outside of the home; if they tend to get stressed or anxious in new surroundings, it might not be worth bringing them into the store and adding more unnecessary stress to their life.
If your dog continually pulls at their leash or barks excessively, then these are issues you should try to fix before bringing them into stores. So, if you believe that your dog needs some preparation for their shopping trip, make sure to set aside time to train them accordingly. The best method is working with your dog early on to socialize and teach them properly. Once you feel ready to bring them into a store setting, start off small.
For instance, you can take your pup with you into the store. Make sure to have treats on hand to reward well-behaved dogs and cats, and praise them often. The first time, only stay in the store for a minute or two, then give them another treat when you leave. Slowly increase the amount of time you spend in the store until your dog is comfortable wandering around with you.
A Note On Service Animals
Service dogs or other trained animals are exempt from these policies, as they are considered working animals. If you have a service dog, you should not have any trouble bringing them into stores with you. Just make sure you bring along the proper documentation, like a service animal ID card or vest.
Service animals generally have more freedom when it comes to store policies, but it's always best to double check with the store before bringing your animal inside.
Conclusion
With these tips in mind, you and your dog should be able to enjoy a stress-free shopping experience together at grocery stores or pet supply stores. Just remember to always put your dog's needs first and to be respectful of other shoppers and store employees. With a little preparation, you'll be on your way to conquering the world of pet-friendly shopping!
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