Eat before you hit the store!
Just like us, dogs get the munchies when surrounded by temptation in stores. If Barli was going to PetSmart directly from home, I made sure he eats before we go to the store. If he goes directly from training class, he was full from an hour of treat rewards!
Which Dogs Should Not Go to PetSmart?
The best dogs for shopping excursions are ones that enjoy the experience and are responsive to your commands, walking on leash, stopping and sitting quietly while you look.
However, if your dog is new to shopping, PetSmart is a good option because other shoppers are pet lovers, too!
If your dog is still working on some manners, that’s just fine. Be sure you can safely maneuver your dog in and out of the store and parking lot–but if you are concerned that your dog might let out a bark or whine, others will understand. Bring treats and positively reinforce the behaviors you want to see in your dog.
I was once in PetSmart and a dog owner with a new rescue told me she was working on her dog’s socialization and asked if I’d give her dog a treat. She had a whole pouch filled with treats to hand out to shoppers to gain her new dog some good experiences with strangers. What a great idea!
PetSmart is a great socialization experience–however, if your dog is aggressive toward other dogs, PetSmart is not the place to shop with him or her due to the high likelihood that you will run into other dogs.
What discount do Petco employees get?
You get 40% on Petco’s brand names, which are many of the supplies in store, and 20% off everything else. Higher prices in stores with the discount, didn’t offset competitors lower prices offered in their stores.
Unlike other stores, PetSmart allows customers to bring leashed pets into the store. The chain store has faced other lawsuits alleging injuries from falls caused by slippery floors with urine or other pet waste on them, according to news articles found through a quick online search.
Taking my NERVOUS dog to petsmart | DO NOT PET
Do you ever try to leave your house to run errands solo and get that look from your pup? You know the one–big sad puppy eyes that beg, “Mom, take me with pretty please. I’ll be a very good boy forever and ever.” Luckily plenty of stores like PetSmart feature dog-friendly policies so you can bring your furry fren(s) along for a shopping spree. Here’s the scoop on PetSmart’s pet policy, along with some hot tips for shopping with your beloved pets.