Ever wondered what stores your dogs are able to walk around in?
While there are some stores that are pet-friendly, others aren’t. It is important for you to know whether the store you are visiting allows dogs prior to your visit.
If you intend to visit Goodwill with your dog anytime soon, it is good to know more about their policies regarding letting dogs into your stores.
Read on to find out more!
Goodwill
Goodwill Industries International is an American non-profit that provides community-based programs for those that have barriers that prevent them from doing so by themselves.
On top of that, they are also known as a used-goods thrift store, where people are able to purchase second-hand goods, giving them a new home.
Does Goodwill Allow Dogs?
Unfortunately, no, Goodwill stores generally do not allow dogs on their premises.
However, they give an exception for service dogs.
These dogs are allowed to accompany their owners with disabilities on the premises.
This new policy of allowing service dogs in to their stores was approved in 2012 and was defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
One reason why Goodwill does not allow dogs, other than service dogs, into their stores is due to the potential of the unsanitary deposits.
Why Don’t All Stores Allow Dogs?
One main reason as to why many stores don’t allow dogs is due to them needing to accommodate many people, some of which do not like animals or have allergies.
Furthermore, as some dogs are not properly trained, they may be prone to breaking items in the store.
What Stores Allow Dogs on Their Premise?
While Goodwill does not allow dogs in their stores, there are many other stores that do.
Some of these stores include:
- Sephora
- Hallmark
- Hobby Lobby
- Urban Outfitters
- Abercrombie & Fitch
- Anthropologie
- Hallmark
- Macy’s
- Banana Republic
- TJ Maxx
- LUSH
- Old Navy
- Michaels
- Marshalls
- Half-Price Books
- Bloomingdale’s
Typically, most pet stores allow pets on their premises. However, you should check ahead as some may not — due to space constraints.
Learn More:
Tips to Keep in Mind When Bringing Your Dog to Stores
If you decide to bring your pooch to stores, here are some things you should consider before and when you are taking your dog to the store.
As different managers may have different policies for their own stores, this means that while a specific franchise may allow dogs, another may not.
It is a good idea to call ahead to find out whether they do indeed allow pets into the premises.
You should keep in mind that while a particular store may be dog friendly, the shopping mall in which the store is located might not be.
Before visiting the mall, it is also ideal to call them up ahead of time to find out their policy on pets.
When bringing your dog to stores, you should also be a mindful and responsible owner.
Remember to keep him on a leash and close to you at all times, rather than letting him roam freely.
By doing this, you can react quickly when faced with an uncomfortable situation — if your dog or a stranger gets nervous.
Also note that as children are curious, they may come towards your dog and try touching him, sometimes without asking.
If your dog gets unsettled by this, you should reconsider them going to the store with you.
Being a mindful owner also means cleaning up their messes as you go.
Even if your dog is fully trained, having them in a new environment may get them uncomfortable.
This means that they may forget what they should and should not do.
As owners, you should be aware of this and make sure your dog is comfortable in a new setting.
You should also clean up their mess if they ever make one.
Overall Thoughts
While Goodwill may not allow pets, that are not service pets, into their stores now, who knows when their policy may change.
There are also various other stores that allow pets on their premises — however, remember to call ahead to confirm.
When bringing them to these stores, you should also be mindful of how you and your dog acts, allowing both them and others to be in a comfortable environment.
