PetSmart is widely recognized as a leading pet retailer in North America, offering a wide array of products, services, and even pet adoption opportunities. For pet parents, the question of whether they can bring their furry, scaled, or feathered companions along while they shop is a common one. Understanding PetSmart’s pet policy is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience for both you and your pet. This article delves into PetSmart’s pet-friendly stance, outlining what you need to know before bringing your animal companion to the store.
PetSmart’s Welcoming Stance on Pets
Generally, yes, pets are allowed at PetSmart. PetSmart distinguishes itself by being a pet-friendly retailer, welcoming well-behaved pets into their stores. This policy is a cornerstone of their brand, fostering a community atmosphere and making pet owners feel at ease while shopping for their animal companions. Unlike many retail establishments that restrict animal entry to service animals only, PetSmart embraces the presence of pets within their stores.
This pet-friendly approach aligns with PetSmart’s mission to support pet parents in all aspects of pet ownership. Allowing pets in-store enhances the shopping experience, turning it into more than just a chore but an outing that can be shared with your beloved animal.
Types of Pets Typically Allowed
While PetSmart is generally welcoming to pets, there are implied guidelines on the types of animals that are commonly brought into their stores. You’ll most frequently see:
- Dogs: By far the most common pet companions at PetSmart. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are a regular sight.
- Cats: Often seen in carriers or on leashes, though less common than dogs.
- Small Animals: Hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and similar small animals are usually permitted, ideally secured in carriers to ensure their safety and prevent escapes.
- Birds: Smaller birds in cages or carriers are sometimes brought in, especially if owners are seeking specific bird supplies or advice.
- Reptiles and Fish: While less frequent, reptiles in secure carriers and fish in transportable containers are generally acceptable, particularly if the purpose of the visit is to purchase supplies for these specific pets.
It’s important to note that the acceptance of less common pets might vary slightly by location and store management discretion. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to call your local PetSmart ahead of time to confirm if your specific type of pet is welcome.
Guidelines for Bringing Your Pet to PetSmart
To ensure a positive experience for everyone, including your pet, fellow shoppers, and PetSmart staff, it’s important to adhere to some unspoken and sometimes explicitly stated guidelines:
- Leashes and Carriers: Dogs should always be on a leash, and cats and smaller animals should be securely confined in carriers. This is crucial for the safety of your pet and others, preventing accidental escapes or interactions with other animals that could be stressful or even harmful.
- Well-behaved Pets: PetSmart’s pet-friendly policy relies on pet owners bringing well-behaved animals. Pets that are excessively vocal, aggressive, or disruptive may be asked to leave. Socialization and basic obedience training for dogs can make store visits much smoother.
- Cleanliness: Accidents happen, but pet owners are expected to be responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Bringing along poop bags and being prepared to clean up any messes is part of being a responsible pet owner in a public space.
- Health and Vaccinations: While not usually checked, it’s implied that pets brought into PetSmart are healthy and up-to-date on their vaccinations to protect other animals and people in the store.
- Respect Other Shoppers and Pets: Be mindful of personal space and ensure your pet is not bothering other shoppers or pets. Not everyone is comfortable around animals, and some pets may be reactive to others.
Service Animals: Always Welcome
It’s crucial to differentiate between pets and service animals. Service animals, typically dogs, are legally protected and are always allowed in PetSmart, regardless of breed or typical pet policies. Service animals are working animals trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, and their presence is not a matter of PetSmart’s discretion but a legal requirement under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the US and similar legislation in other regions.
PetSmart employees are trained to understand the rights of service animal handlers and should not deny entry or access to service animals. Inquiries about service animals are limited to two questions: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform? Documentation or specific identification for service animals is not legally required for entry.
Why Bring Your Pet to PetSmart?
Bringing your pet to PetSmart can be a beneficial experience for both of you:
- Socialization: For well-socialized pets, especially dogs, a trip to PetSmart can be a fun outing that provides exposure to new sights, sounds, and smells, and potentially interactions with other people and pets (from a safe distance or in a controlled environment like a training class).
- Product Testing (to some extent): While your dog can’t “try on” every collar in the store, being able to bring your pet can help you visualize how certain products might look or fit. For example, holding up a harness to your dog can give you a better idea of sizing.
- Community Experience: PetSmart fosters a community of pet lovers. Bringing your pet can enhance this sense of community, making shopping feel more personal and enjoyable.
- Training Opportunities: For dogs in training, a controlled environment like PetSmart can be a good place to practice commands and leash manners in a moderately stimulating setting.
Conclusion: PetSmart – A Pet-Friendly Shopping Destination
PetSmart’s pet-friendly policy makes it a welcoming shopping destination for pet owners who want to bring their animal companions along. By understanding the general guidelines and being a responsible pet owner, you can enjoy a pleasant and convenient shopping experience at PetSmart with your pet by your side. Remember to always prioritize your pet’s comfort and safety, and when in doubt, check with your local store regarding any specific pet policy questions.
