While dog parents love taking their dogs everywhere, some places do not allow them to do so.
Whether dogs are allowed in particular stores will depend on the particular store itself.
Although there has been an increase in stores having pet-friendly policies, there are still particular stores where pets are off-limits.
Most of these stores include grocery stores such as Kroger — but why?
Read more to find out about whether dogs are allowed in Kroger and why.
What is Kroger?
Kroger is an American company that provides customers with low grocery prices.
They are also the largest supermarket by revenue in America and the fifth-largest retailer in the world.
Does Kroger Allow Pets in Their Stores?
Unfortunately, no. Kroger, like most grocery stores, does not allow dogs into their stores.
They do, however, allow service dogs to follow their owners into the premises.
One of the reasons why they do not allow pets into the store is due to safety and hygiene issues.
In most states in America, local health regulations do not allow animals to enter public areas where food is sold.
Furthermore, according to the FDA Food Code, animals may carry pathogens transmissible through food, making it unsafe.
However, this law excepts service animals.
Stores are allowed to ask owners if their dog is indeed a service dog and what their function is.
Do note that store owners are not allowed to ask for proof.
What are Service Dogs?
Service dogs are dogs that are trained to help and assist an individual with a disability.
These dogs can serve different purposes, including (but not limited to):
- A guide for the blind
- Helping to handle one with PTSD
- Police dogs
- Patriot service dogs
- Autism dogs
- Seizure alert dogs
Dogs will need to be covered under the FDA rules for them to be recognized as service dogs.
Grocery Stores That Do Not Allow Dogs
If you are considering bringing your dog grocery shopping with you, here are some stores you should be a way of.
These stores do not allow dogs onto their premises.
- Aldi
- Costco
- Giant Food
- Ralphs
- Shoprite
- Sprouts
- Target
- Trader Joe’s
- Walmart
- Whole Foods
Grocery Stores That Allow Dogs
Although Kroger does not allow dogs into their store, there are some grocery stores that do.
These stores allow dogs to enter the premises, whether they are service dogs or not. These include:
- Stockbox First Hill Grocery
- Capitol Hill
- River Market District
While these places allow dogs to enter the premises, it is ideal that you call them up before going to ensure that they do indeed allow your dog to shop with you.
Pet Etiquette
If you do decide to bring your dog out shopping with you, there are some things you should take note of when doing so.
When bringing your dog out, they may be overwhelmed by a new environment, especially if it is their first time out.
They may be distracted by different smells, strangers, and noises.
Thus, when bringing them to stores, you should ensure that they are comfortable and calm.
This can be done by preparing them prior to bringing them out.
You can do this by acclimatizing them to different experiences including smells, people, and noises.
When taking them out, also remember to have them on a leash rather than roaming around freely.
Remember that others may be afraid or allergic to dogs and bringing them close to one may result in an uncomfortable situation.
Overall Thoughts
Although Kroger does not currently allow non-service dogs into their stores, there are a few other grocery stores that do.
You never know when Kroger’s policy might change. If they do, remember to keep your dog calm at all times, and be mindful of others.
Shopping with your dog can be a fun bonding experience if done responsibly.
