Are Dogs Allowed In Sam's Club? 6 Important Rules to Know

There are over 89 million pet dogs in the United States, and the pet industry is rapidly growing to accommodate the bond we have with our furry friends. More places, like Sam’s Club, are becoming dog-friendly as well! You might be wondering, are dogs allowed in Sam’s Club, and what are the rules?

Sam’s Club doesn’t allow dogs inside of their stores unless they’re service animals, which they cannot legally turn away due to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). You can usually bring your pet dog into outdoor spaces such as patios or seating areas so long as they behave themselves.

In this article, we’ll discuss six rules to know before bringing your dog to Sam’s Club.

#1: Dogs Are Allowed in Outdoor Areas at Sam’s Club

All dogs are allowed in outdoor areas at Sam’s Club, such as the parking lot and outdoor seating areas. However, they aren’t allowed into the building.

This is because Sam’s Club sells food, and it’s not sanitary to let animals into the building. The meat aisle would be way too tempting for most dogs, anyway!

If you can’t or don’t want to leave your dog at home while you shop, consider making a curbside order so that you can stay in the car with them while you pick up your groceries.

Please don’t leave your dog in the car while you shop in the store by yourself, unless you’re only going to be inside for a few minutes and it’s a cool day. Dogs can very quickly overheat in cars, even when temperatures are moderate.

#2: They Must Remain on a Leash

Your dog should be on a leash and entirely in your control while at Sam’s Club. They shouldn’t be begging for others’ food on the patio or tripping other customers. They definitely shouldn’t be wandering around outside!

Before visiting Sam’s Club, ensure your dog has good leash manners. Teach them to sit or lay down out of the way, such as tucked under your chair, so that they aren’t bothering others.

#3: You Must Clean Up After Your Dog

If your dog potties outside of Sam’s Club, you’ll be expected to clean it up. Be sure to bring poop bags, just like you would on your daily walks!

Please also be courteous about where you allow your dog to potty. Don’t let them pee on the patio while others might be eating, but instead, walk them away from the area to potty in the grass. Use garbage cans that aren’t near other people, and especially ones that aren’t located where others are eating!

#4: Only Service Dogs Can Enter the Store

Pet dogs and emotional support pets cannot enter Sam’s Club. Only service dogs can go into the building.

Service dogs are trained to help people with disabilities and are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. They’re considered medical equipment rather than pets.

#5: You Can be Asked to Leave if Your Dog Misbehaves

Even service dogs can be asked to leave if they don’t behave in Sam’s Club. This includes bothering other customers or employees, making a mess, or pottying where they shouldn’t.

Please make sure your dog is on their best behavior at all times. Mistakes happen, but poorly-trained dogs should stay at home while you visit the store.

#6: Always be Courteous to Employees and Other Customers

Show kindness and consideration to others outside of the store by:

• Keep up with your dog’s veterinary care. They should be spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated before being brought into the public. Keep sick dogs at home.
• Only bring trained and socialized dogs to Sam’s Club with you. They should be well-behaved and in your control at all times. Your dog should not bother other customers or employees.
• Keep your dog’s feelings in mind. Many pups would rather stay home than go to Sam’s Club with you. It can be a very stressful experience being around so many other people in an unfamiliar environment.

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