Public Businesses That Allow Dogs

 

Many of us are all to familiar with the feeling of guilt when you see the look indicating sadness on a dog's face when you're getting ready to leave without them. While it is generally accepted for service dogs to enter public places, there are also a number of businesses that allow well-behaved canines through their doors, whether as service dogs or as companions. This article focuses on some of them.

PLEASE NOTE: Though a chain's policy may be friendly to dogs, it is often up to the manager of an individual location as to whether or not dogs are allowed inside. Also, remember to keep your dogs on a leash, for their safety and that of others, and to try to avoid possible property damage.

Pet Supply Stores

Among the most welcoming to dogs, for obvious reasons, are pet stores.

Examples: Petco, PetSmart, Pet Supplies Plus

Bookstores

Now, when you're looking for a good book to read while curled up next to your furry friends, you can bring them with you. Perhaps they can even advise you on what to choose.

Example: Barnes & Noble and Half Price Books. Be advised that dogs are not allowed inside Barnes & Noble cafes.

Sporting Goods Stores

Both humans and canines often enjoy some good fun outdoors, and a number of franchises cater to their needs.

Examples: Gander Mountain, Bass Pro Shops, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Cabela's. Please note that dogs are not allowed inside restaurants at Bass Pro Shops locations.

Clothing Stores

The items being sold at these locations may be of less interest to pups, but it still might make for a fun day out for them.

Examples: Abercrombie & Fitch, Ann Taylor, Gap, Banana Republic, Urban Outfitters, Anthroplogie, Free People, Foot Locker, bebe, Nordstrom, Old Navy

Arts & Crafts Stores

For creative canines and their human counterparts, now they can search together for the right projects.

Examples: Hobby Lobby and Michaels

Cosmetics Stores

Again, perhaps of less interest to your furry friends, but still possibly a fun trip.

Examples: Sephora and LUSH Cosmetics

Bath and Home Decor Stores

You and your dog can choose how to relax in style together.

Examples: Bath & Body Works; Bed, Bath & Beyond; Pottery Barn; Crate & Barrel; Restoration Hardware

Home Improvement Stores

Fun bonding time, whether you're thinking of working on the main house, or on a luxurious dog house.

Examples: Home Depot, Tractor Supply Company, Menards. Possibly of interest, Tractor Supply Company features pet clinics where licensed veterinarians can administer vaccinations and microchips.

Farm Supply Stores

Often, these stores carry many pet products.

Examples: Rural King and Atwoods

Department Stores

When people and dogs alike are looking for a little bit of everything, some franchises allow them to look for it together, all in one location.

Examples: Ross Stores, Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus