Walmart is an American multinational retail corporation that owns a chain of superstores. The stores sell almost anything that there is to buy from stationery to fresh produce to frozen produce to furniture to even pet supplies. Wondering if you can go shopping in Walmart with your pet? We have carefully discussed below the possibilities and given a list of other stores that will let in your furry companions.Let us know ‘Are Dogs Allowed In Walmart ESA?’.
Are Dogs Allowed In Walmart?
According to Walmart’s store policy, dogs or pets of any kind are not allowed in Walmart ESA. Although service dogs can accompany their disabled owners, Walmart is generally not pet friendly.
Why Are Dogs Not Allowed In Walmart?
Dogs and other pets are usually not allowed in Walmart ESA due to food hygiene and safety concerns. Pets are not granted access to places where food is sold or prepared to prevent contamination. According to the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) codes, bringing an animal into stores like Walmart is unsanitary and poses a health risk. Another reason for the not-so-pet-friendly rules is in consideration of other customers who might have a genuine fear of dogs or who might be allergic to dogs or any other pet fur. Some dogs also carry fleas and make a mess if unattended to.
Why Are Service Dogs Allowed?
Walmart allows service dogs in recognition of the vital roles they play in the lives of their owners who may not be able to efficiently perform daily tasks without their help. Also, service dogs in general are better trained than most pets and so, letting in service dogs is considered safer than letting in all pets.
Are All Service Dogs Allowed?
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the FDA, all service animals are allowed in Walmart although there are a few exceptions. If a service animal poses a threat to the health and safety in the store, the employees are within their rights to ask the owner and the animal to leave.
Can Walmart Ask If Your Dog Is A Service Animal?
Any Walmart employee can ask if your dog is a service animal or not. They may also ask what exactly your dog’s functions are. They, however, have no right to ask for proof of disability. Most service animals wear tags and/or brightly colored vests so it is easy for employees to recognize your dog as a service animal or not.
What Counts As A Service Animal?
Walmart used the ADA guidelines to define what a service animal is. A service animal is an animal that is individually and properly trained to perform day-to-day tasks for a disabled person. These tasks must be directly related to the owner’s disability.
Rules On Bringing A Service Animal Into Walmart
- The owner must be in control at all times.
- The animal must be well behaved.
- The animal cannot be carried around the store like a baby.
- The animal is not allowed in areas marked for food preparation.
Are Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) allowed?
The simple answer to this is No. Emotional support animals are not regarded as service animals under the ADA guidelines and hence, are not allowed. Emotional support dogs provide support and comfort to individuals struggling with mental health issues but are not involved in helping with the implementation of daily tasks and so are not service animals.
Are Dogs Allowed In Other Grocery Stores?
Under the FDA guidelines, you cannot take a dog into any grocery store unless it is a service animal. Stores that generally let in pets are stores that are not involved in food preparation like pet stores, clothing stores, and homeware stores.
Can I Leave My Dog Outside Walmart?
Yes, you can leave your dog tied up outside Walmart. It is advised, however, that they’re not left outside for too long for safety reasons (weather and theft).
Which Stores Allow Dogs?
Most stores that are not involved with food preparation are usually pet friendly. A few include;
- PetCo
- Home Depot
- PetSmart
- Macy’s
- LUSH cosmetics
- The Apple Store
- Lowes
- Tractor Supply Co
- Pottery Barn
What To Know Before Going Shopping With Your Dog?
If you’re going to a pet-friendly store, it is best to contact the store beforehand as it is up to the store managers to decide whether to grant your pet access or not. For small animals, a handy carrier, sling carrier or a portable back carrier are all good options for moving around with your pet. For larger animals, an appropriate collar and leash will do. Before bringing your pets into any store at all, ensure that the animal is properly trained in socializing with other animals and even people to prevent the occurrence of an accident.
Conclusion
Dogs are not allowed in Walmart except it is a service animal. Generally, you can take your pets along into any store that doesn’t deal with the preparation or sale of food. However, it is advised you confirm from store websites first before taking in your pets.
