Dogs in grocery stores!?!

[pjackson8]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!

[Fredman]

Because they think their special

[John41]

My wife almost tripped over a big dog on a leash. No apology.

[wisbad1]

Because they think their special
Saw one at Winn Dixie today, probably not going back again. Least for awhile
Gross!

[retiredguy123]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

[dewilson58]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.


That's not the issue.
It's "their little babies" that are the issue.


The ones who push their dogs in strollers. :ohdear:

[JGVillages]

That's not the issue.
It's "their little babies" that are the issue.


The ones who push their dogs in strollers. :ohdear:

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.

[vintageogauge]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

For $35.00 anyone can get a service certificate for their dog, some are legit others are just taking advantage of the system, just like handicap stickers in cars. These aren't like seeing eye dogs.

[retiredguy123]

For $35.00 anyone can get a service certificate for their dog, some are legit others are just taking advantage of the system, just like handicap stickers in cars. These aren't like seeing eye dogs.
The Federal ADA law doesn't require a service dog to have a certificate. You just need to tell anyone who asks that the dog has been trained to perform a service for you. That's it. No certification or formal training required. You can train the dog yourself.

[Stu from NYC]

The Federal ADA law doesn't require a service dog to have a certificate. You just need to tell anyone who asks that the dog has been trained to perform a service for you. That's it. No certification or formal training required. You can train the dog yourself.

Saw a huge dog in Sams yesterday was wondering about this.

I have a pet monkey should bring him next time but when he sees bananas trouble will ensue.

[Stu from NYC]

That's not the issue.
It's "their little babies" that are the issue.


The ones who push their dogs in strollers. :ohdear:

Feel bad for the poor dog. They want to go out and sniff and smell not be pushed around.

[fdpaq0580]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.

How can you tell? On several occasions I have seen dogs, large and small, being lead Ito a store or being pushed in a grocery cart. I have seen them sniffing food items while the owner was oblivious and distracted. I have seen dogs laying in the aisles while the owner walked up the aisle looking for some item, or surprise someone with a sniff or lick. If these were service dogs, they were poorly trained and unidentified. Guide dogs for the blind are easily identifiable and very well trained. The ones I mentioned were not in any way identifiabe or labeled as service animals and did not appear to be performing any obvious function. So, again, how can you tell?

[tophcfa]

Tractor Supply and Petco are the only two stores we have ever brought our Dog into. Both are pet friendly stores that encourage patrons to bring their little furry friends into. Bringing anything but a properly trained and certified guide dog for a blind person into a grocery store is wrong in my opinion.

[Number 10 GI]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.

It's real easy to make your dog a service animal, just send in a few bucks and you can get your very own vest for the dog.

[Stu from NYC]

It's real easy to make your dog a service animal, just send in a few bucks and you can get your very own vest for the dog.

Sad that people do this.

[Number 10 GI]

Maybe I'll get me an alligator service animal, it can eat service dogs when I go shopping. Save me a lot of money on food for it.

[Number 10 GI]

Seems like we just had a thread on an old man smelling vegetables and how upset some got over that but it's OK for a dog to lick it.

[retiredguy123]

It's real easy to make your dog a service animal, just send in a few bucks and you can get your very own vest for the dog.
There is a common misconception that there is some type of official certification, or vest required for service dogs. There is no such requirement. Anyone can have a dog, self train it to perform a task, and it will immediately become a service animal in full compliance with the Federal ADA law. The dog does not need to wear anything to identify it as a service animal. The only requirement is that the dog's owner, if asked, needs to say that the dog is a service animal trained to perform a task. If you ask anything else, you are violating the Federal law.

[dlsgrafton]

Because no one stops them.

[Two Bills]

If a dog is riding in a cart in a supermarket, in a pram, on an extendable leash, or sitting next to its owner in a restaurant, it is not a service dog.

[fishon]

Us folks wearing masks do not appreciate you bringing your dog into stores or restaurants. People that bring their little "baby" everywhere are emotionally unstable.

[Singerlady]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

Not all dogs are service animals.

[joecian1]

My former Nextdoor neighbor in NYC had a properly trained Brittany
For her service dog that never left her side in the event of fainting spells. It had a coat that said service dog and was a fabulous companion.
People with fake service dogs are just as guilty as those who use other people’s handicap parking permits

[GOLFER54]

My tiger is always well behaved in stores, my gorilla, not so much.

[sam&rog]

Fake service dog certificates are all over the web. A few bucks and presto , yup have a service dog.

[George Page]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!

I would prefer to encounter a happy, well-trained, loyal dog that supports its owner rather than an arrogant Villager who is endangering the owner by not wearing a mask. Licked by a dog? Today, that’s better than something sprayed with human spit.

[Two Bills]

My tiger is always well behaved in stores, my gorilla, not so much.

Was that your gorrilla sniffing the herbs the other day in Publix?
Caused a bit of a stink on here if it was!!:icon_wink:

[TOMMY D]

Saw a huge dog in Sams yesterday was wondering about this.

I have a pet monkey should bring him next time but when he sees bananas trouble will ensue.

I've been in Winn Dixie and on one occasion the woman did have a monkey and was feeding it grapes and on another occasion another woman had a Iguana and was tearing off lettuce to feed it.

[MaryAnne28]

This subject is a pet peeve of mine. I agree that dogs should not be allowed in stores or restaurants. True service dogs - yes. I came across someone with a huge, furry dog in a large home improvement store. The dog took a crap in the middle of an aisle -- the guy said, I don't know why my dog does this every time I bring him to this store. Well ... leave him home!

[rjsantos592]

Maybe they are. Maybe a service dog.

[ldovermiller]

Are the animals wearing masks!! Dogs in stores are a risks to the patron and have a legal liability to the store owner, manager.

[Alicat5977]

Lowe’s, Home Depot & TJ Max are also pet friendly. I would call or check the stores website before you go. A lot of stores are now becoming pet friendly.

[PLedoux]

And, yet, I took my puppy to the park near Hacienda Hills and discovered it is a “pet-free” park. Okay to bring the dog to the grocery store, but not to a park?!?! (Look, I get that people don’t clean up after their pets, and parks can get nasty ... just find the irony just a little too much.) I have a tiny little puppy who would fit in my purse, and because she is so young it would be so easy to bring her with me everywhere. But no dog of mine will ever be inside a store, restaurant, doctor’s office (yes, the doctor actually had her dog there every day) or even in the town squares. I love my dog but do not expect anyone else to have to deal with her. (Even though she is the cutest thing ever and everyone would love her!)

[vinricci]

How can a 3lb chihuahua be of any assistance to someone?

[sdeikenberry]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.

I have, several times, seen dogs that obviously weren't service dogs. Especially the ones riding in the lady's purse...

[brianrosey]

Indiana doesn’t alow it

[gregcharlesnelson@gmail]

And, yet, I took my puppy to the park near Hacienda Hills and discovered it is a “pet-free” park. Okay to bring the dog to the grocery store, but not to a park?!?! (Look, I get that people don’t clean up after their pets, and parks can get nasty ... just find the irony just a little too much.) I have a tiny little puppy who would fit in my purse, and because she is so young it would be so easy to bring her with me everywhere. But no dog of mine will ever be inside a store, restaurant, doctor’s office (yes, the doctor actually had her dog there every day) or even in the town squares. I love my dog but do not expect anyone else to have to deal with her. (Even though she is the cutest thing ever and everyone would love her!)

There must be nearly as many dogs as people. Selfish:a040::a040:

[airdale2]

Most are comfort pets.

[wwwson]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.

With all due respect, how can you say that you “ never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog“? What makes you certain that they are teue “service” animals? I have members of my family that have had service dogs for more than 50 years. Never, to my knowledge, were they not able to go to a grocery store, restaurant etc. without their service dog. They were always able to be accompanied by someone negating the need for a “service” animal.

[Skunky1]

Some pet owners have no respect for other people nor the stores they shop in.

[Skunky1]

These type of pet owners are disrespectful and ignorant. What next? A monkey, a bird, horse, a peacock yes on and on and on. Where does it stop?

[SandiG]

Pets are not allowed inside restaurants; I’m not sure why they are allowed in food stores. I have seen a cockatoo in Walmart, and a month later a squirrel on a leash in the grocery cart. Trained and Cert. Dogs are easy to recognize by their trained behavior. Dogs not trained are easily identified as well. People who have allergies are being ignored. Now people are being forced to ignore certain stores and call corporate bosses.

[Bucci1920]

Welcome to TV where dogs are more important than people

[bilcon]

They think they have rights. My wife was getting her nails done and a "woman" sat down next to her with a big cat in her arms. She complained because she is allergic to cat fur and the woman said it is a therapy cat. She told the owner either the cat goes, or I go.
Thankfully the cat went. The owner had ba--s. Keep your animals home where they are happy. I love dogs, I just don't like some of their rude owners. I have posted before about the lab who took a dump inside the entrance of Bed and Bath and Beyond. Disgusting. Don't tell me your animals are cleaner than some people. Lick, lick, lick. Sniff, sniff, sniff.

[Girlcopper]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.
I dont know which Publix you shop at but I would guess that 2 out of 3 visits to publix or winn dixie, I have to step around dogs. Service dogs and emotional dogs are not the same. Service dogs are trained and certified and well behaved and assist blind, deaf, or other physical issues. Emotional dogs.....,well......just go on line and write to a virtual dr saying that you have anxiety and walaaaa, a dog you can have. These dogs dont have to be trained, certified or friendly. Any old dog will do and thats the issue. 99% of the people with alleged emotional dogs are just dog owners who feel their dogs should be welcomed everywhere. I personally hate seeing them in stores, diners, etc. i think its unsanitary, unsafe and I shouldnt have to be subjected to them. The service dogs are welcome anyplace I go. They serve a function. Leave your little untrained emotional dog home

[Astron]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.
You missed a key point or two. ADA.gov states “ Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person's disability.” The key point Is “individually trained” . The animal “must be trained to take a specific action when needed to assist the person with a disability.” The other point is that emotional support animals are NOT service animals. So many people abuse the system, I think it should be scrapped and replaced with one that requires certification of training and medical need to be displayed on the animals harness. There are always a few that ruin a good thing for everyone.

[Kgcetm]

A dog must be properly Identified as a Service Animal to qualify. It may be a stretch but I doubt these complaints were directed toward these dogs.

[jsd412]

Stop judging when you don’t know. Just because you can’t see what the impairment is doesn’t mean it’s not there. There are working dogs trained to alert their owner if their blood sugar is dropping, about to have a seizure, alert the hearing impaired of sirens, assist those with anxiety & ptsd. There are many reasons for a service dog that you cannot tell what service they are providing nor is it any of your business. Sure there will some who take advantage of the system but service animals are imperative to many people.

[BossLady]

Lowe’s, Home Depot & TJ Max are also pet friendly. I would call or check the stores website before you go. A lot of stores are now becoming pet friendly.

Stores becoming pet friendly? That’s a shame. I don’t want your dog at the fish counter or in the dressing room. I don’t want to have to navigate around your Golden Retriever in the aisle. It’s rude to bring your dog in public indoor places. Some are under the misguided idea that everyone else loves their little mutt too. Not true. I like dogs. I don’t like rude dog people. And... when I see a capable grown man insisting his is a self-proclaimed “service” dog, I assume he isn’t well adjusted enough to cope with the simple things in life; if he must emotionally rely on a dog to make it through the Lowe’s. Not a turn-on dude. Shaking my head... Be polite. Leave your precious FeFe at home when you go out. It’s another mask type of thing. Be self-aware and aware of your neighbors. It is so difficult to follow societal rules?

On my beach at home in OC, people want to sneak their poor dogs onto the beach. All the time despite the beach being a terrible environment for dogs due to possible heat stroke, salt water poisoning etc. I always go to the lifeguard. One day I see a young guy on the beach with his dog. I look closer, the guy has one arm and no legs, possible a veteran. That’s a service dog. Wanting to carry FeFe into the Publix because you love FeFe so much isn’t the same thing. I’m Diabetic. I get all issues aren’t as visible as no arms or legs. Have the dog properly identified with credentials AND most importantly — proper training to actually be a “service” animal and I have no problem.

[Luckytwo]

You can buy on line Emotional support dog certificate and vest for fee.

[Rodneysblue]

I have a pet cow I’ve trained her to give me milk when I’m thirsty. Can I bring her in too?
The Federal ADA law doesn't require a service dog to have a certificate. You just need to tell anyone who asks that the dog has been trained to perform a service for you. That's it. No certification or formal training required. You can train the dog yourself.

[greenflash245]

the owners disability is lack of brain cells

[VillagerNut]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!

Here is the Florida statue. Now companies are allowed to ask if it’s a service animal and what services it provides. The state just put more teeth into the law as of January 1 of this year. Now a person can be fined for stating it is a service animal.

Statutes & Constitution
:View Statutes
:

Online Sunshine (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0413/Sections/0413.08.html)

[dewilson58]

Sure there will some who take advantage of the system


Most
I was waiting outside for my pizza-to-go at Flippers and a guy was feeding his dog pizza from their table.

[BossLady]

Here is the Florida statue. Now companies are allowed to ask if it’s a service animal and what services it provides. The state just put more teeth into the law as of January 1 of this year. Now a person can be fined for stating it is a service animal.

Statutes & Constitution
:View Statutes
:

Online Sunshine (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0413/Sections/0413.08.html)

Good. Start handing out fines!

[dewilson58]

How can a 3lb chihuahua be of any assistance to someone?


those things are mean...........maybe a body guard.

[marysackiss]

It was the man’s fault, did the dog wear a therapy jacket?

[jbrown132]

There is a common misconception that there is some type of official certification, or vest required for service dogs. There is no such requirement. Anyone can have a dog, self train it to perform a task, and it will immediately become a service animal in full compliance with the Federal ADA law. The dog does not need to wear anything to identify it as a service animal. The only requirement is that the dog's owner, if asked, needs to say that the dog is a service animal trained to perform a task. If you ask anything else, you are violating the Federal law.

What you are saying is not true. Try getting on a plane with a service dog without documentation, and a vest identifying the dog as a service animal. You need a letter from your doctor saying the animal is required for your wellbeing, a certificate saying the dog has received training, and a vest identifying the dog as a service animal. If you do not have these the dog is not allowed to board. Been through this many times and the doctor note is only good for one year. It should be the same requirement for bringing your dog into a grocery store.

[Travelhunter]

For $35.00 anyone can get a service certificate for their dog, some are legit others are just taking advantage of the system, just like handicap stickers in cars. These aren't like seeing eye dogs.

It’s harder to get a handicap sticker as if you’re not handicapped not only do you have to perjure yourself but so does your doctor

[BossLady]

What you are saying is not true. Try getting on a plane with a service dog without documentation, and a vest identifying the dog as a service animal. You need a letter from your doctor saying the animal is required for your wellbeing, a certificate saying the dog has received training, and a vest identifying the dog as a service animal. If you do not have these the dog is not allowed to board. Been through this many times and the doctor note is only good for one year. It should be the same requirement for bringing your dog into a grocery store.

Right on!

[Travelhunter]

I would prefer to encounter a happy, well-trained, loyal dog that supports its owner rather than an arrogant Villager who is endangering the owner by not wearing a mask. Licked by a dog? Today, that’s better than something sprayed with human spit.
I would prefer to avoid both

[Travelhunter]

They think they have rights. My wife was getting her nails done and a "woman" sat down next to her with a big cat in her arms. She complained because she is allergic to cat fur and the woman said it is a therapy cat. She told the owner either the cat goes, or I go.
Thankfully the cat went. The owner had ba--s. Keep your animals home where they are happy. I love dogs, I just don't like some of their rude owners. I have posted before about the lab who took a dump inside the entrance of Bed and Bath and Beyond. Disgusting. Don't tell me your animals are cleaner than some people. Lick, lick, lick. Sniff, sniff, sniff.
I had to sit next to an owner and a “service”dog on Southwest Airlines. The dog was not well behaved and either was the owner.

[Henryfrakl]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

Really did it have it's vest on

[kendi]

I haven't seen a dog in the grocery yet and am surprised it is allowed. Took my dog once to Home Depot up North only because I needed to get something and she was petrified of the nail gun being used at the house. Other than that she's only been to the pet store and that is rare.

[Travelhunter]

You missed a key point or two. ADA.gov states “ Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person's disability.” The key point Is “individually trained” . The animal “must be trained to take a specific action when needed to assist the person with a disability.” The other point is that emotional support animals are NOT service animals. So many people abuse the system, I think it should be scrapped and replaced with one that requires certification of training and medical need to be displayed on the animals harness. There are always a few that ruin a good thing for everyone.
Thank you. It makes so much more sense.
I worked with a person that was blind. Her service dog was trained, well behaved and never an issue in the work place

[JulieER]

Can’t cause a health hazard though by licking food.

ADA Service Dog Laws (2020) | Service Dog Certifications (https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/ada-service-dog-laws/)

[kendi]

I had to sit next to an owner and a “service”dog on Southwest Airlines. The dog was not well behaved and either was the owner.

True service dogs are well trained. It's not right that people can get that distinction for their dog so easily.

[Travelhunter]

Stores becoming pet friendly? That’s a shame. I don’t want your dog at the fish counter or in the dressing room. I don’t want to have to navigate around your Golden Retriever in the aisle. It’s rude to bring your dog in public indoor places. Some are under the misguided idea that everyone else loves their little mutt too. Not true. I like dogs. I don’t like rude dog people. And... when I see a capable grown man insisting his is a self-proclaimed “service” dog, I assume he isn’t well adjusted enough to cope with the simple things in life; if he must emotionally rely on a dog to make it through the Lowe’s. Not a turn-on dude. Shaking my head... Be polite. Leave your precious FeFe at home when you go out. It’s another mask type of thing. Be self-aware and aware of your neighbors. It is so difficult to follow societal rules?

On my beach at home in OC, people want to sneak their poor dogs onto the beach. All the time despite the beach being a terrible environment for dogs due to possible heat stroke, salt water poisoning etc. I always go to the lifeguard. One day I see a young guy on the beach with his dog. I look closer, the guy has one arm and no legs, possible a veteran. That’s a service dog. Wanting to carry FeFe into the Publix because you love FeFe so much isn’t the same thing. I’m Diabetic. I get all issues aren’t as visible as no arms or legs. Have the dog properly identified with credentials AND most importantly — proper training to actually be a “service” animal and I have no problem.

Well said

[Travelhunter]

Most
I was waiting outside for my pizza-to-go at Flippers and a guy was feeding his dog pizza from their table.


So gross

[davem4616]

there's a woman in her late 70's that brings her 'emotional support' dog into church with her....it's some kind of midget pooch that stays in a small bag

come on, ya can't leave the mutt at home for a little over an hour?

[tallmanf]

These are obviously NOT service animals.

[Dlbonivich]

I have an emotional support animal. He is a 5 pounder. He is trained by me. He was recommended by my healthcare professional. I do not take hiM to stores. I have tun into Walgreens with him. I do not leash him I carry him.

[Travelhunter]

True service dogs are well trained. It's not right that people can get that distinction for their dog so easily.

I agree. Fake vests ultimately make it harder on people that really need a service dog for day to day activities

[FredJacobs]

The Federal ADA law doesn't require a service dog to have a certificate. You just need to tell anyone who asks that the dog has been trained to perform a service for you. That's it. No certification or formal training required. You can train the dog yourself.
Not all dogs are service animals. Those that are can be admitted to any location. Emotional support animals are different. They are not allowed where pets are not admitted. The problem is that you cannot require a handler to show proof that your animal is a certified service animal. You have to take the owner's word.

[Michael Charles]

Well folks we live in Florida where the heat inside the car is over 125 degrees just sitting in the driveway. We see many cases each year where people leave their pets in their car while running an errand, going to the Dr's office or shopping and some of those a cruel death.

Maybe that fear makes these people feel like taking them everywhere with them.

My opinion is that they should leave them home period unless it's a verified service and you have proof.

My other pet leave is the little dogs that people have them sitting on their lap up around the steering wheel while their driving either a car or your golf cart. Talk about a total distraction for you (an accident waiting to happen) Giving those dogs on your lap a little treat and boom you veer off and hit something or worse yet, a person.

[retiredguy123]

What you are saying is not true. Try getting on a plane with a service dog without documentation, and a vest identifying the dog as a service animal. You need a letter from your doctor saying the animal is required for your wellbeing, a certificate saying the dog has received training, and a vest identifying the dog as a service animal. If you do not have these the dog is not allowed to board. Been through this many times and the doctor note is only good for one year. It should be the same requirement for bringing your dog into a grocery store.
I don't know what special requirements the airlines have, but here is a link from the Federal Government that addresses questions about the ADA law.

Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA (https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html)

Question 17 specifically says that there is no documentation or certification required for a service animal. It also says:

"There are individuals and organizations that sell service animal certification or registration documents online. These documents do not convey any rights under the ADA and the Department of Justice does not recognize them as proof that the dog is a service animal."

[TandHSTAR@AOL.com]

Service dogs are well behaved. They do not lick or smell any items in the store. It's the pets that are the problem
I take that back it's the owners of the pets that are the problem. Please leave them home while shopping, especially in the supermarkets. Stay safe.

[BossLady]

I have an emotional support animal. He is a 5 pounder. He is trained by me. He was recommended by my healthcare professional. I do not take hiM to stores. I have tun into Walgreens with him. I do not leash him I carry him.

“Pets” are emotional support animals trained by their owners.

[retiredguy123]

Can’t cause a health hazard though by licking food.

ADA Service Dog Laws (2020) | Service Dog Certifications (https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/ada-service-dog-laws/)
The link you provided is a private company apparently selling certifications that have no legal value under the ADA law. See the link in Post No. 76. That link is a Federal Government link that addresses these bogus certifications. It says:

"There are individuals and organizations that sell service animal certification or registration documents online. These documents do not convey any rights under the ADA and the Department of Justice does not recognize them as proof that the dog is a service animal."

[Waltdisney4life]

The virus can Be transfer thru their Saliva if you want to bring your dog please put a mask on it!

[cathell62]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!

I agree, stores need to crack down and people need to leave their pets home.

[Bill1701]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!

It is usually the 'fur baby' people doing this. They also bring them to other crowded places, such as the squares and Farmer's Market. It is the whole 'look at me, I'm special' mentality.

[Michael Charles]

I agree, stores need to crack down and people need to leave their pets home.

Good luck with stores enforcing anything. They're afraid of losing any customers.

[JohnN]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!

I agree, it's disgusting. Should not happen unless the animal is a true service dog.

[waynehal55]

Stores becoming pet friendly? That’s a shame. I don’t want your dog at the fish counter or in the dressing room. I don’t want to have to navigate around your Golden Retriever in the aisle. It’s rude to bring your dog in public indoor places. Some are under the misguided idea that everyone else loves their little mutt too. Not true. I like dogs. I don’t like rude dog people. And... when I see a capable grown man insisting his is a self-proclaimed “service” dog, I assume he isn’t well adjusted enough to cope with the simple things in life; if he must emotionally rely on a dog to make it through the Lowe’s. Not a turn-on dude. Shaking my head... Be polite. Leave your precious FeFe at home when you go out. It’s another mask type of thing. Be self-aware and aware of your neighbors. It is so difficult to follow societal rules?

On my beach at home in OC, people want to sneak their poor dogs onto the beach. All the time despite the beach being a terrible environment for dogs due to possible heat stroke, salt water poisoning etc. I always go to the lifeguard. One day I see a young guy on the beach with his dog. I look closer, the guy has one arm and no legs, possible a veteran. That’s a service dog. Wanting to carry FeFe into the Publix because you love FeFe so much isn’t the same thing. I’m Diabetic. I get all issues aren’t as visible as no arms or legs. Have the dog properly identified with credentials AND most importantly — proper training to actually be a “service” animal and I have no problem.
Very well said, it's nice to read an intelligent post.

[jammendolia]

How can a 3lb chihuahua be of any assistance to someone?
it could be a “emotional support dog”!

[Sedlecky]

Sad that people do this.
We have two different friends who sent away for the phony certification for their dogs so they could "take them to restaurants and travel with them". They are two of the worst behaved dogs I have ever seen and when I see those kind of dogs I get really angry. A real special needs trained dog is obvious by it's stellar behavior!

[Rosie1950]

Stop judging when you don’t know. Just because you can’t see what the impairment is doesn’t mean it’s not there. There are working dogs trained to alert their owner if their blood sugar is dropping, about to have a seizure, alert the hearing impaired of sirens, assist those with anxiety & ptsd. There are many reasons for a service dog that you cannot tell what service they are providing nor is it any of your business. Sure there will some who take advantage of the system but service animals are imperative to many people.
Bingo; people here are just to judgy.
As for a dog laying cable in certain stores, happens all the time, most likely 1 of 2 reasons.
1, weren’t pottied before entering
2. Anxiety and stress from being placed in unknown circumstances.
#1 is laziness on owners part and #2 can be a danger to those unsuspecting shoppers who HAVE to touch without asking.
True service dogs never leave their owners side, should be on the floor, leashed (retractable is fine for wheelchair handler) (PTSD Veterans may allow their service dog off leash to enter an establishment to make sure it is safe for the Vet, the dog will return to the Vet and signal it is safe to enter)
The service dogs SHOULD NOT be on chairs in a restaurant or fed from the table.
Service Dogs are housebroken
Most Service Dogs wear harnessing, to signal to the DOG they are working, and let bystanders know they should not be distracted. When out of harness they know they can be a dog and off duty.
I learned this and much more from volunteering at Fidelco Guide one of the most trusted names of guide dogs in the nation
Moral of the story, volunteer and stop judging.

[PJackpot]

I agree, should not be allowed.

[Cheiro]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!

I could not agree with you more. I have always felt that these so-called "service animals" are just an excuse animal owners are using to bring their animal with them everywhere they go. Real service animals are supposed to have been trained and have their certificate with them at all times. They may love their pets, but not everyone else does, particularly when it comes to being sanitary. Any grocery store that would allow an untrained, unregistered animal to enter the store is not the place you should be purchasing your food and the management should be told of the occurrence.

[LG999]

I believe this may be against health regulations. I think only service dogs are permitted.

[Shagone]

I do wish all stores, especially grocery stores, would prohibit this. In PetSmart one day I saw a little dog lift it's leg and pee on a stack of bagged dog food. I also saw a person in the grocery store put his dog in the shopping cart...so his butt is where everyone puts their food as they are shopping. So gross.

[BossLady]

Bingo; people here are just to judgy.
As for a dog laying cable in certain stores, happens all the time, most likely 1 of 2 reasons.
1, weren’t pottied before entering
2. Anxiety and stress from being placed in unknown circumstances.
#1 is laziness on owners part and #2 can be a danger to those unsuspecting shoppers who HAVE to touch without asking.
True service dogs never leave their owners side, should be on the floor, leashed (retractable is fine for wheelchair handler) (PTSD Veterans may allow their service dog off leash to enter an establishment to make sure it is safe for the Vet, the dog will return to the Vet and signal it is safe to enter)
The service dogs SHOULD NOT be on chairs in a restaurant or fed from the table.
Service Dogs are housebroken
Most Service Dogs wear harnessing, to signal to the DOG they are working, and let bystanders know they should not be distracted. When out of harness they know they can be a dog and off duty.
I learned this and much more from volunteering at Fidelco Guide one of the most trusted names of guide dogs in the nation
Moral of the story, volunteer and stop judging.

A dog with a job! Good Dog. Your description keenly outlines a properly trained service animal and I appreciate your experience.

Extensive professional training is required to be a dog with a job. All other dogs without such rigorous training programs are amateurs, “pets”, and all pets are emotionally supportive. Pets are not entitled to vie for space at the seafood counter when I am buying shrimp. They have to stay home. When an identified, badged, harnessed suited professional Guide/Service/K9 unit animal shows up on the scene, I will give that Pro and its handler a great deal of space and respect! I can easily spot a pro in action.

Pets and legit Service Animals - big difference.

It’s up to the human to make the decisions. I often see this phenomenon as well, people risking the health and safety of their dogs by putting them into situations. Example... fast arriving at mail cottage the other day I see a lady with two small dogs like people, on the passenger seat of her golf cart, with two loose leashes dragging on the ground as she rolls in at 15 or 20 mph. I immediately bring to her attention the leases dragging the ground and that could they so easily get caught up in a wheel and pull the dog(s) off the cart while moving... She kinda laughs and grabs up the leases and flips them back onto the seat in the exact same position, dangling towards to ground and goes on to get her mail. Unprotected, put at risk by the owner, these dogs sit on golf cart seat, an accident waiting to happen because the woman is so unaware. Shaking my head...

[cmeinel@verizon.net]

I think Lowe’s is pet friendly too. I knew in PA the law forbids animals in any establishment that sell or serves food. Service dogs not companion dogs are allowed. You cannot train your own strive dog unless your licensed

[Travelingal702]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.
Opps, not so. I know someone who regularly takes their little dog into Publix. When asked what the service is for, the owner responds, "I have diabetes" (it is NOT a service animal). Of course, it's not "politically correct" to ask this, but not everyone is up on all the rules and regulations governing dogs. ONLY certified Service animals are allowed in areas where there is food. COMFORT (aka Emotional Support Animals) are NOT allowed in any food areas (eg. Supermarkets, restaurants, etc.) But I have yet to see anyone eject them. I love dogs and have had many over the years. I am not selfish enough to think they have to accompany me everywhere!

[MandoMan]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!

Seeing eye dogs are definitely legal, but they are easy to spot. “Emotional support animals” are sort of questionable. I wonder about people who will flip out without their dog present to calm them down. I’ve seen more and more of these dogs on planes in the past couple years (not in the past few months, of course, as I haven’t been on a plane since Christmas). Some are quite large, and the owners aren’t paying for extra seats for their dogs. I’m just glad I’ve never had, say, a golden retriever sharing my legroom. My understanding is that federal law doesn’t actually require stores and airlines to allow emotional support animals the way it does require provision for seeing eye dogs. Some airlines are considering either banning them or requiring them to be shipped in crates in the baggage compartment or requiring passengers to purchase seats for them. Stores could ban them, too, but at what cost? Would customers with such dogs stop coming?

There’s another aspect, though. In The Villages, much of the year you don’t dare leave your dog in a closed car in the daytime, even for five or ten minutes. Even walking your dog in the daytime—especially on concrete or asphalt—verges on animal abuse, right? I’d rather see a live animal in a store than a dead animal in a car.

[justjim]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

I see “pets” in the grocery store too. Some laws are an “overreach” IMHO.

[Janlindsey4@gmail.com]

Please write your concerns to the manager of the store. He should know how people feel...

[Stu from NYC]

I've been in Winn Dixie and on one occasion the woman did have a monkey and was feeding it grapes and on another occasion another woman had a Iguana and was tearing off lettuce to feed it.

Wonder if my wife will be ok with us bringing the monkey to publix later. Will buy him a bunch of bananas there so hope nobody thinks I am dishonest.

[RedChariot]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.

Service dogs don't urinate in the dairy isle and owner just walks away. Publix Colony. Service dogs don't wrap themselves around your ankles nearly sending you off balance and owner giggling, "she must like you." Publix Colony. We are over run here with dogs.

[Stu from NYC]

I have a pet cow I’ve trained her to give me milk when I’m thirsty. Can I bring her in too?

Does she supply chocolate milk?

[coffeebean]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

Many of those "service" dogs are not service dogs at all. Don't get me started on "emotional support" animals. UGH!!!

[Fuzz323]

If a dog is riding in a cart in a supermarket, in a pram, on an extendable leash, or sitting next to its owner in a restaurant, it is not a service dog.

Foolish statement. I can not figure how you know what a service dog is and is not. True service dogs come in all shapes and sizes and are sometimes required as companions due to specific problems the owner may have.

If as I think you are divining your info from a mystic source I would love to have the powerball numbers for next week. Thanks in advance. :bigbow:

[NoMoSno]

Foolish statement. I can not figure how you know what a service dog is and is not. True service dogs come in all shapes and sizes and are sometimes required as companions due to specific problems the owner may have.

If as I think you are divining your info from a mystic source I would love to have the powerball numbers for next week. Thanks in advance. :bigbow:
A service dog is required to have "4 on the floor" at all times.
If it's riding in a cart it's not a true service dog.

[OhioBuckeye]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.

I agree with you but in defense with the people that think it’s discussing. Service Dogs have rigid harnesses on them, not a 6 to 10 ft. leach where they can wonder to both sides of the isles. Service Dog are obedient, I also never saw a Service Dog not paying attention to their owner & sniffing everything. I know some people love their pets but leave them home for 45 mins.

[jimjamuser]

Maybe I'll get me an alligator service animal, it can eat service dogs when I go shopping. Save me a lot of money on food for it.
Best post in the humor category today # 1

[Number 10 GI]

Can’t cause a health hazard though by licking food.

ADA Service Dog Laws (2020) | Service Dog Certifications (https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/ada-service-dog-laws/)

I don't care one bit that it isn't supposedly a health hazard, I don't want some jerk's mutt licking on something I eat.

[Joe C.]

You can tell a true service animal by how it behaves around other dogs and strangers. Service dogs are extremely well disciplined, don't bark at other dogs and mind their own business.

I've seen untold numbers of dogs with "service animal" vests on that were absolute mutts.......barking at everyone and being a major nuisance to all the bystanders.

Dogs in restaurants that bark and irritate others who are trying to have a nice meal......shouldn't be allowed.

But remember.....it's not the dog's fault for being there. It's the idiot owner's fault. I think that they should be permanently barred from any establishment where their dog has caused problems.:doggie::doggie::doggie::boxing2::

[Bosoxfan]

Most are comfort pets.

Please define comfort. I have a Belgian Malinois that brings gs comfort to me because he is so loveable so is he "comfort dog"? Hewill never see the inside of any establishment where human food is being sold ,served or prepared.

[Bjeanj]

Ace Hardware also allows leashed dogs on premises.

Rather than everyone agreeing on this venue that “other than service dogs” shouldn’t be allowed, let’s figure out a dialogue for when we encounter this.

Such as:
1) “is your dog a service dog due to a disability”?
2) “what work or tasks has your dog been trained to perform”?
3) “emotional support dogs do not qualify as a service dog, so I am reporting you to the manager if you do not leave now”.

I bought a harness for our lab. My color choices were red or black. I thought black would be too hot, so I bought the red one, stupidly. Now, I am embarrassed when people think she is a service dog due to the color of the harness.

[robinsdw2]

You are not really looking then. There should not be dogs in a grocery store.

[Eg_cruz]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.
Wow really.....I have some many it’s unreal. Just the other day a guy with a Great Dane was in Target. The worker asked could she pet him and he said of course you can....and there your first clue not a service dog. I true service dog is working and are not allowed to be touched while on duty. The dog had no vest stating “Service dog on Duty” that’s an other way you know they are not a service dog.
Problem with this kind of behavior it’s makes to hard for the real working service dogs and owner not to get harassed because of the abusers.

[jimjamuser]

My tiger is always well behaved in stores, my gorilla, not so much.
My service Whookie is ALWAYS well behaved in stores. But once, one jerk told him to "sit" and Wally, my lovely companion whookie, kicked him in the nether regions!

[rjackson1759]

Did NOT see any mention of the 'dog licking groceries' being a Service Dog. Where was that in the pjackson8 post? I must have missed it.

[rosie 136]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

The law is a joke, as we all know there are a-lot of dogs that are not service dogs, I for one know this as a fact, I have seen dogs in stores and out-side restaurants that should not be around food. It's sad how some people take advantage of this (so called law), you should be thank-ful that you honestly don't need a service dog, but as we all know, times and people have changed, sad so sad,

[njbchbum]

Florida regs re service animals:
Florida Laws on Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals | Nolo (https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/florida-laws-on-service-dogs-and-emotional-support-animals.html#:~:text=Florida%20and%20federal%20law %20protect%20the%20right%20to,accommodations%2C%22 %20such%20as%20restaurants%2C%20museums%2C%20hotel s%2C%20and%20stores).

[jimjamuser]

The virus can Be transfer thru their Saliva if you want to bring your dog please put a mask on it!
There is a documented case of a house cat that tested positive for CV.

[fdpaq0580]

I have an emotional support animal. He is a 5 pounder. He is trained by me. He was recommended by my healthcare professional. I do not take hiM to stores. I have tun into Walgreens with him. I do not leash him I carry him.

I am sorry that you have need of an emotional support animal. Why you need it is none of my business, but, I have known many people who have had family members, friends and others who have told them "you need to get a dog (or cat)". I don't get why some folks think that others "need to get a dog, get rid of you Chevy and get a Ford, find Jesus, change political parties, etc". They mean well, I guess, but they are pushing their preferences on you. Your health care person might be a member or friend of the local dog pound and is one of those folks who thinks everyone ought to have a dog.
As for emotional support animals, I have no doubt that any animal you love (I have had many dogs) provides a kind of emotional support, just like a friend. But there other ways to get emotional support. I have been to nursing homes where some of the patients have a teddy bear or doll for comfort and support. Police and Fire units and others sometimes have a teddy bear that they will give to a child that is traumatized. Teddy is always ready to comfort and doesn't have needs that can put stress on a person dealing with their own problems.
And what about the animal? Animals are sensitive to their surroundings and they feel the stress but can't really understand it. All they know is that something is wrong, but they don't know how to fix it. I pity that animal.
While I get that some folks have emotional issues, I feel that there are other, and sometimes better, options for finding comfort rather then placing the burden of stress and discomfort on an animal.
And, yes, I own a teddy bear. No, I don't take it shopping, to the bank, etc.

Please stay. Stay safe. Peace!

[BossLady]

... Because pets are not allowed in the grocery, qualified Service animals are; and there is a lot of confusion among the dog-in-public-dog-owners that feel being emotionally soothed by their pet, equivocates with a trained “Service Animal” thinking buying an online certificate and “training them myself” qualifies. I’ve seen signs that spell out the differences at grocery stores.

[BossLady]

Pets are great. They have no business in public.

Leaving a pet in the car in Florida is really never a good thing to do, even for a minute, and will attract attention in the parking lot. I know, in the 70’s my parents used to leave me in the car. Not anymore.

Concrete, asphalt, sand are all scorching surfaces some months. A pets‘ heart is very close to these super hot surfaces. Imagine being 5 lbs, three inches from the hot ground? Home is Air Conditioned and has a food dish. Leave the pets at home for their sake.

If you take your pet to Publix (and it licks the produce) you are the problem, your dog is the victim.

And I do not want to see anyone wrapped up in a dog leash as mentioned. A head injury is no joke. It’s easy to eliminate that risk. No Pets Allowed.

Many posts in this thread are funny and insightful.

[Chabill]

My sister in law buys " service animal" vests for her pets so she can take them where she wants. If only there was some way to guarantee that all the dogs are truly serving their owners and not just pets!

[vermonster]

Stop judging when you don’t know. Just because you can’t see what the impairment is doesn’t mean it’s not there. There are working dogs trained to alert their owner if their blood sugar is dropping, about to have a seizure, alert the hearing impaired of sirens, assist those with anxiety & ptsd. There are many reasons for a service dog that you cannot tell what service they are providing nor is it any of your business. Sure there will some who take advantage of the system but service animals are imperative to many people.
Yes, a service dog can be trained to help someone with a psychiatric disability such as PTSD and many others. It may not be obvious what that disability(ies) is (are). A proper service dog will have have behavioral training at the level of CGCA or the equivalent at the minimum, as well as training specific to the diagnosed disability(ies). It will have a docile temperament, will not approach other people without invitation, and will never get nervous around people or other dogs. It will have intelligence and intuition. BTW, I never confront people parking in a handicap space even though they may have no visible handicap.

[BossLady]

Florida regs re service animals:
Florida Laws on Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals | Nolo (https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/florida-laws-on-service-dogs-and-emotional-support-animals.html#:~:text=Florida%20and%20federal%20law %20protect%20the%20right%20to,accommodations%2C%22 %20such%20as%20restaurants%2C%20museums%2C%20hotel s%2C%20and%20stores).

Thank you for the link. Well, it’s not as tight of a Law as I would like.

[EdFNJ]

Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA (https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html)

My favorite dog gross-out is when people sit their dogs on public chairs, like in the "baby seats" on supermarket carriages or the outside seating at restaurants or the chairs in front of Starbucks at LSL with nothing under their (the dogs :) ) butt end. I don't know any dogs who know how to use toilet paper.

[Number 10 GI]

Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA (https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html)

My favorite dog gross-out is when people sit their dogs on public chairs, like in the "baby seats" on supermarket carriages or the outside seating at restaurants or the chairs in front of Starbucks at LSL with nothing under their (the dogs :) ) butt end. I don't know any dogs who know how to use toilet paper.

They use their tongue. So remember that when Fluffy licks your face.

[EdFNJ]

They use their tongue. So remember that when Fluffy licks your face. Yep, true, but not "MY" face, or hands or any body parts. Ever.

[Stu from NYC]

I took my monkey to a super market today and he was in a cart. Was very well behaved and when we went thru the fruit aisle one of the managers gave him a banana and when he wolfed it down he now got a dozen more.

Does anyone think we should have paid for the bananas? It was a real conundrum.

[bobnyce]

The truth is too many knuckleheads believe they should be able to take their babies (pets are not babies) anywhere. Our dog is 12 years old and has never been in a store or annoyed anyone. He is at home enjoying the air conditioning because he is smarter than the average knucklehead. Dogs is grocery carts is absurd. Dogs have dirty buts and bellies and sitting in a grocery cart is too much to handle. No dogs should ever be in a grocery cart! My two cents.

[Number 10 GI]

Yep, true, but not "MY" face, or hands or any body parts. Ever.

I completely agree.

[Rosebud1949]

The entitled and those with attitude strike everywhere......

[vivacious32162]

Service dogs are for the blind. It is long overdue for consequences for those who lack integrity. (The same goes for those using handicapped parking spaces illegitimately.) Those of us who are concerned about this must voice our opinions and take action. I have seen this also and find it unacceptable. What about stores selling food? Dogs do not have the same hygiene as humans. I have approached employees and managers. Their response is they cannot ask anyone to leave. Notice that their are signs posted at the entrances of many of these stores. If no one is going to enforce, thru are meaningless. What about people with allergies? I have approached the people with dogs. They laugh and walk away. They ask , “What business is it of mine? “
I believe there was a referendum on last year’s ballot that resulted in this. I began to notice the dogs in the stores this year.
I believe we must call the Dept. of Agriculture. I tried the local Dept. of Health. How can a store selling food permit animals also?
There are many issues here. First, people who do not own dogs have rights also. Dog owners , please keep your dogs on your private property, or leashed on community property, and let the dogs do their business in such places. I do not care to encounter your dogs sitting on chairs I use to dine (saw at Toojay’s in Spanish Springs). I do not care to look down when I walk around the Squares; so I do not trip on your dogs. When I am weeding on my property, or my grandkids come and play in my yard, I do not want to think your dog has done its business there. You may have decided to own a dog, but we don’t for various reasons. Each person has rights.
As we can readily see in our country, this lack of integrity has Large scale ramifications.

[lovsthosebigdogs]

As someone who has both pet dogs of her own and also helps train and socialize service dogs in training, it is in accordance with Florida law that the dog and handler of a dog in training are afforded the same rights as a fully trained service dog. I DO take the dog in training everywhere I go and 99.9% of the time these dogs are perfectly behaved and exactly what you would expect a true service dog to be as far as behavior. However, since these dogs are in training, sometimes you will see something that looks 'wrong' like a dog that hesitates before going into a store or pulls back from a shopping cart. I even had a dog bark at someone while under a table in a restaurant. It is very important that I, as the trainer, deal with these issues and uncover them before these dogs go to their intended disabled veteran at the end of training. If I didn't expose the dog to many, many different scenarios and push the limit of what each dog can tolerate then we wouldn't know what behaviors to correct before the disabled person finally gets their trained dog. Our dogs ultimately know almost 90 commands. They expect a well trained dog in the end and this doesn't happen by magic- it happens because someone put in a lot of work, took the dog to restaurants, stores, on planes, to parks, doctor's offices and everywhere the new owner might go. Only experience gives the potential service dog that kind of confidence when the time comes. It has to be the trainer; it can't be the new disabled owner dealing with a dog going to these places for the first time. And please remember that not all disabilities are visible. We have placed dogs with veterans with traumatic brain injuries that weren't immediately obvious by looking at a person or with PTSD as well as veterans in wheel chairs whose condition makes it more obvious. My biggest problem hasn't been the dogs, it's people who, when asked not to look at, talk to or touch the dog, will often say "I don't mind" and reach for the dog anyway. These dogs are medical equipment and necessary for the owner. You wouldn't object to someone bringing in their wheelchair to a store because the wheels carry germs or take up too much aisle space. BTW, in Florida only dogs and miniature horses can legally be service animals so no monkeys or gators, sorry. And I too am furious about the easy availability of the fake vest/fake service dog situation. It makes it much, much harder on those of us with a legit dog and purpose.

[kennie]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

Maybe they should be wearing the leash instead.
If management wasn't so concerned about offending the people maybe they would say "GET DOG THE H%&* OUT OF THE STORE"

[Timeweaver1]

A service dog is highly trained and would not be sniffing food.

[JoMar]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.

Then you don't get out much. I shop at Publix, I have seen people carrying then, I have seen them in the push carts with food and of course I have seen them (once) in a baby carriage. Publix doesn't care about your health, or mine, they care about revenue. Just got to accept that or go someplace out of the bubble.

[ffresh]

How can a 3lb chihuahua be of any assistance to someone?

Ask them.
They'll tell you it soothes their anxiety bouts. I think they should just get an invisible friend, like I had when I was four :ohdear:

Fred

[HappyRetired]

I've been in Winn Dixie and on one occasion the woman did have a monkey and was feeding it grapes and on another occasion another woman had a Iguana and was tearing off lettuce to feed it.

Isn't that called "stealing"? How did she pay for the grapes and lettuce if it didn't go through the check-out first. If I were store security I'd save photos of the lady for the next time she came and hand her over to police with the tape.

[WesMan]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!
I agree, keep the dogs in the home... Same if they are in a Restaurant!!!!!!

[WesMan]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.
BS....... 80% are fake service dog.

[nn0wheremann]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!
ADA rules:
ADA 2010 Revised Requirements: Service Animals (https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm)

It has to be a dog, performing a service.

It has to be under control

Or it can be a miniature horse.

[WesMan]

That's not the issue.
It's "their little babies" that are the issue.


The ones who push their dogs in strollers. :ohdear:
Crazy people!!!!

[Worldseries27]

To me the " service dog" issue is. 99 % merely much adoo about bs. Degree in liberal arts decrees

[WesMan]

Saw a huge dog in Sams yesterday was wondering about this.

I have a pet monkey should bring him next time but when he sees bananas trouble will ensue.
The pet monkey was with the big dog!!

[nevjudbaker]

That's not the issue.
It's "their little babies" that are the issue.


The ones who push their dogs in strollers. :ohdear:
I am one who pushes my dog in a stroller. I have balance problems plus bad lungs. My doctor wants me to walk daily. I can't handle a big dog. I have a legal emotional support dog. She has done so much for us. My husband also has medical problems. If I didn't have her I would never be motivated to go for a walk. She loves her walks & makes sure we go out daily unless it rains. She also can't handle the humidity here. I can't carry her when she needs a rest. I bought the stroller so we could go on walks. She is potty pad trained so we don't have to worry about taking her out if the weather is bad. Strollers help people be with their pets which helps with daily stress. A dog in a stroller is not interrupting your life what so ever. Dogs drooling, laying on the floor & shedding hair I can understand. My dog lays in her stroller & is very well behaved. She brings so many smiles to peoples faces & negative looks from people like you.
I would rather have a dog curled up in a stroller next to me anywhere than a Kid or grandkids squirming, screaming, running up & down the floor. At the town squares people bring their kids. All they do is yell, scream & run around trying to get attention. Dogs are just laying on the ground. Very sad that ndogs are better behaved than kids. Next time you see a stroller you can be negative or just be thankful they have the stroller. Store owners will allow the strollers. Most elders now days want to be with their dogs. Elders are the ones supporting the economy. Many will allow well behaved dogs in strollers. Only wish they would only allow well behaved children & grandchildren.

[Stu from NYC]

ADA rules:
ADA 2010 Revised Requirements: Service Animals (https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm)

It has to be a dog, performing a service.

It has to be under control

Or it can be a miniature horse.

So how about a quarter horse?

[nn0wheremann]

So how about a quarter horse?
Read the regs. "In addition to the provisions about service dogs, the Department’s ADA regulations have a separate provision about miniature horses that have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. (Miniature horses generally range in height from 24 inches to 34 inches measured to the shoulders and generally weigh between 70 and 100 pounds.) Entities covered by the ADA must modify their policies to permit miniature horses where reasonable. The regulations set out four assessment factors to assist entities in determining whether miniature horses can be accommodated in their facility. The assessment factors are (1) whether the miniature horse is housebroken; (2) whether the miniature horse is under the owner’s control; (3) whether the facility can accommodate the miniature horse’s type, size, and weight; and (4) whether the miniature horse’s presence will not compromise legitimate safety requirements necessary for safe operation of the facility."

At least the horse has to be housebroken.

Hi ho Silver! Isn't this a great country?

[nevjudbaker]

Then you don't get out much. I shop at Publix, I have seen people carrying then, I have seen them in the push carts with food and of course I have seen them (once) in a baby carriage. Publix doesn't care about your health, or mine, they care about revenue. Just got to accept that or go someplace out of the bubble.

Publix let in people who may have a cold or not feeling well. They let in runny nose screaming kids & let them run down the isles touching everything. A dog will not affect your health. Think about that next time you go shopping.

[Joe C.]

On a post a few pages back, someone referenced that a person with diabetes had a service dog and that it WASN'T A SERVICE DOG.

Believe it or not, service dogs are available for people with severe diabetes. They can actually smell when blood sugar is very low. ..very specialized sense of smell.

[VApeople]

The pet monkey was with the big dog!!

OK, so a pet monkey and a big dog walk into a bar . . . .

So what is the rest of the joke?

[retiredguy123]

BS....... 80% are fake service dog.
I guess my sarcasm failed.

[Stu from NYC]

OK, so a pet monkey and a big dog walk into a bar . . . .

So what is the rest of the joke?

I would tell you but think I would get bounced. Besides my monkey is underaged for a bar

[llmcdaniel]

My sister has epilepsy and seldom leaves home for fear of a seizure. Meds have done little to control them over the years. Her small dog actually senses when one is coming and licks her face in a certain way. When she does enter a store, she has Wolfie and another person with her so they can get her to the car. Her seizures are a fugue-like state, not grand mal. Because she looks “normal,” she has been criticized many times and openly humiliated in public. It’s a no-win situation both ways.😢

[crydzanich]

I have , several times.

[crydzanich]

Not all of them are support animals.

[EdFNJ]

My favorite dog gross-out is when people sit their dogs on public chairs, like in the "baby seats" on supermarket carriages or the outside seating at restaurants or the chairs in front of Starbucks at LSL with nothing under their (the dogs :) ) butt end. I don't know any dogs who know how to use toilet paper.


Like this......

[Bbgranny1]

The Food and Drug Administration's Food Guide lays down the law: with few exceptions, live animals of any kind are not permitted on the premises of a grocery store, a restaurant or other food establishment. The prohibition applies to dogs, cats, birds and other animals. Animals are unsanitary, and the law protects the national food supply from contamination from dog drool, urine, feces and other material that dogs carry on their coats and paws and might leave behind on store shelves or counters.

Exceptions
Some dogs are allowed access to grocery stores in spite of the general rule that they are not. For example, law enforcement dogs can come inside, as long as they're accompanying a police or security officer. Without this exception, a canine-officer team in hot pursuit of a criminal would have to stop the chase if the bad guy ran into a grocery store. A similar exception permits service animals for the disabled to be in grocery stores under certain circumstances.

Service Dogs
Laws that regulate dogs in grocery stores must not interfere with the rights of disabled people who use service dogs. The FDA requires grocery stores to allow disabled employees, customers and other business visitors to bring service dogs into their stores. The disabled person must be in control of the dog at all times, and the store can restrict the dog's access so it is only allowed in parts of the store where its activities don't pose a health or safety hazard.

If someone sees a non-service animal inside a grocery store, the person should contact the Food and Drug Protection Division of the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at (919) 733-7366. The law allows the division to assess penalties of up to $2,000 for violations of the Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act, depending on the degree and extent of harm caused by the violation. But, in fact, many states are cracking down on fake service dogs. That includes Florida, where it's actually a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500 or up to 60 days in jail, to misrepresent your pet as a service animal.

Enforcement
No dogs are allowed to be in a grocery shopping cart. Service dogs have "four on the floor" when they're not performing a task. This means they walk with their owners and are not transported in a purse, bag, cart or stroller.

[swooner]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.
That has nothing to do with this issue. Dogs and the people who bring them into grocery stores are simply disgusting!

[dewilson58]

I am one who pushes my dog in a stroller. I have balance problems .


Those crappy strollers are not going to prevent you from falling. Get a walker.

[Girlcopper]

There is a common misconception that there is some type of official certification, or vest required for service dogs. There is no such requirement. Anyone can have a dog, self train it to perform a task, and it will immediately become a service animal in full compliance with the Federal ADA law. The dog does not need to wear anything to identify it as a service animal. The only requirement is that the dog's owner, if asked, needs to say that the dog is a service animal trained to perform a task. If you ask anything else, you are violating the Federal law.
Not true. You must have certification for the dog and it must be registered to be a service dog. And it has to be labeled to be allowed into businesses.

[Girlcopper]

True service dogs are well trained. It's not right that people can get that distinction for their dog so easily.
Service dogs are well trained. Its the “emotional” digs that are usually strays and not trained. If you have such anxiety, maybe a friend should be by your side instead of an untrained dog

[Judy n Ron]

There is a common misconception that there is some type of official certification, or vest required for service dogs. There is no such requirement. Anyone can have a dog, self train it to perform a task, and it will immediately become a service animal in full compliance with the Federal ADA law. The dog does not need to wear anything to identify it as a service animal. The only requirement is that the dog's owner, if asked, needs to say that the dog is a service animal trained to perform a task. If you ask anything else, you are violating the Federal law.

Wow! I'd hate to be sentenced to a stint at Leavenworth for asking the dog guy if he knows where the ketchup is!!:pray:

[raney3099]

I agree. I love my dog, but would never bring her shopping or visit to peoples home. She’s part of our family not everyone else’s. She’s still a dog.

[EdFNJ]

Not true. You must have certification for the dog and it must be registered to be a service dog. And it has to be labeled to be allowed into businesses.


From the US DOJ:



Q8. Do service animals have to wear a vest or patch or special harness identifying them as service animals?
A. No. The ADA does not require service animals to wear a vest, ID tag, or specific harness.



Q17. Does the ADA require that service animals be certified as service animals?
A. No. Covered entities may not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal, as a condition for entry.



Q20. My city requires me to register my dog as a service animal. Is this legal under the ADA?
A. No. Mandatory registration of service animals is not permissible under the ADA. However, as stated above, service animals are subject to the same licensing and vaccination rules that are applied to all dogs.




Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA (https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html)

[shyrlburt]

Emotional Support Dogs are not allowed in restaurants or grocery stores, whereas Service Dogs are. I daresay many of the dogs we see in these establishments are emotional support dogs.

II. Service Animal Defined by Title II and Title III of the ADA
A service animal means any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Tasks performed can include, among other things, pulling a wheelchair, retrieving dropped items, alerting a person to a sound, reminding a person to take medication, or pressing an elevator button.

Emotional support animals, comfort animals, and therapy dogs are not service animals under Title II and Title III of the ADA. Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not considered service animals either. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the individual’s disability. It does not matter if a person has a note from a doctor that states that the person has a disability and needs to have the animal for emotional support. A doctor’s letter does not turn an animal into a service animal.

Examples of animals that fit the ADA’s definition of “service animal” because they have been specifically trained to perform a task for the person with a disability:

· Guide Dog or Seeing Eye® Dog1 is a carefully trained dog that serves as a travel tool for persons who have severe visual impairments or are blind.

· Hearing or Signal Dog is a dog that has been trained to alert a person who has a significant hearing loss or is deaf when a sound occurs, such as a knock on the door.

· Psychiatric Service Dog is a dog that has been trained to perform tasks that assist individuals with disabilities to detect the onset of psychiatric episodes and lessen their effects. Tasks performed by psychiatric service animals may include reminding the handler to take medicine, providing safety checks or room searches, or turning on lights for persons with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, interrupting self-mutilation by persons with dissociative identity disorders, and keeping disoriented individuals from danger.

· SSigDOG (sensory signal dogs or social signal dog) is a dog trained to assist a person with autism. The dog alerts the handler to distracting repetitive movements common among those with autism, allowing the person to stop the movement (e.g., hand flapping).

· Seizure Response Dog is a dog trained to assist a person with a seizure disorder. How the dog serves the person depends on the person’s needs. The dog may stand guard over the person during a seizure or the dog may go for help. A few dogs have learned to predict a seizure and warn the person in advance to sit down or move to a safe place.

[Jmforrester]

Last year I saw a scared, shaking little puppy defecate on the floor at Walmart in the main isle in front of the registers. Not the puppies fault but the owners. Dogs do not belong in grocery stores or restaurants.

[miharris]

In 14+ years in TV, and I shop at Publix, I have never seen a dog that wasn’t a service dog.

You must not be very observant. A service dog is never on a long leash, and never rides in a stroller. Last week I saw a man enter Publix walking a small, scruffy dog on a long leash. I politely asked him if the dog was a service dog, and he replied "no, it's my pet" Infomed him that pets were not allowed in grocery stores in Florida, and he said that he was not aware of that, and that he sees people do it all the time. BTW, "emotional support" dogs are not service dogs. This trend toward taking pets everywhere is getting out of hand.

[DameDiana]

Why is this all being complained about here. Have you made your feelings known to the store manager? Owners? And why are you all surprised by this? This behavior is indicative of our society. Entitled, inconsiderate and irresponsible.

[Veiragirl]

How about screaming kids who's parents are oblivious to their spoiled behavior. Or the Hillbillies who's beards have more germs in them then the average toilet. I'll take a dog any day

[retiredguy123]

Not true. You must have certification for the dog and it must be registered to be a service dog. And it has to be labeled to be allowed into businesses.
Wrong. See Post No. 162.

[Tsmart]

No doggie autonomous zones in the stores?

[Debbraham]

Anyone can get a vest stating service dog on amazon! They should have to carry dr order/documentation that the dog is truly a service animal!

[nevjudbaker]

No. They can get a EMS vest. A legal certificate has to be obtained by a legal mental health professional.

[retiredguy123]

Why is this all being complained about here. Have you made your feelings known to the store manager? Owners? And why are you all surprised by this? This behavior is indicative of our society. Entitled, inconsiderate and irresponsible.
The store manager or owner cannot change the Federal law regarding service animals. They have a legal right to be in a grocery store. Only Congress can change that.

[sallybowron]

Because they think their special

Many of the people in the Villages think they are special. The rules do not apply to them. Where is the grocery management in all of this. They should tell these people to leave.

[carolandjohn]

Just because it wears a vest doesn't make it a service dog. Look closer. Vests are available along with paperwork online for a few dollars.

[Indydealmaker]

Why must people bring their dogs into grocery stores?
It is disgusting!!! I saw one dog licking and sniffing unwrapped food items. Today a man brought in his big, wet, smelly dog!

I have seen a man open up a potato salad container, dip his finger in for a taste and place the container back in the cooler. So, what is worse? Dogs or humans?

[LynnWM158]

Add Sparr to the list of pet friendly establishments

[Stu from NYC]

Many of the people in the Villages think they are special. The rules do not apply to them. Where is the grocery management in all of this. They should tell these people to leave.

I think the vast majority of the people here are good moral people who follow the rules.

If the management of the grocery wanted no dogs they would make sure the store manager followed that..

[Polar Bear]

I have seen a man open up a potato salad container, dip his finger in for a taste and place the container back in the cooler. So, what is worse? Dogs or humans?
Missing the point imho...

The human you describe and the human bringing his/her not-true-service-dog into the grocery are roughly equal.

Dogs only do what their human allows them to do.

[ajsmithjr]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

Wondering how you know this particular dog is a service dog.
I have worked for years with an intern, who eventually became an employee,
who was fully blind. He had several service dogs and I know, from observing them,
they are well trained. I doubt that an actual service dog would behave that way in a grocery.
Too many people call their dogs service dogs when they are not-they are emotional support dogs, and I think it ridiculous that the owner cannot venture into a grocery without the animal.

[retiredguy123]

Wondering how you know this particular dog is a service dog.
I have worked for years with an intern, who eventually became an employee,
who was fully blind. He had several service dogs and I know, from observing them,
they are well trained. I doubt that an actual service dog would behave that way in a grocery.
Too many people call their dogs service dogs when they are not-they are emotional support dogs, and I think it ridiculous that the owner cannot venture into a grocery without the animal.
I was trying to be sarcastic. But, if you read the ADA law, anyone can take a dog into a grocery store and claim that the dog is a service animal. You can also train the dog yourself to perform any task that you want and no one can dispute your claim that the dog is a service animal. That is how ridiculous the ADA law is. The store management has no power to decide that your dog is not a service animal. Basically, if the dog owner says it is a service animal, then it is a service animal.

[donfey]

Read the Federal ADA law. The dog is a service animal who performs a necessary service for the owner, who has a disability and cannot function without the dog's assistance.

Well, there are specific requirements to be met before somebody's mutt qualifies as a service animal. Most of the critters folks cart around in strollers or pull along on a leash do not.

The problem, I think, is that store management doesn't have the guts to tell people they'll have to leave Fifi in the car. Pretty much a sign of the times - "don't confront anybody, don't cause a fuss." They get away with that because WE don't complain to management, we vote with our feet instead, and the problem persists. Sad.

[banjobob]

And I think a lot of that is BS.

[TooColdNJ]

You missed a key point or two. ADA.gov states “ Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person's disability.” The key point Is “individually trained” . The animal “must be trained to take a specific action when needed to assist the person with a disability.” The other point is that emotional support animals are NOT service animals. So many people abuse the system, I think it should be scrapped and replaced with one that requires certification of training and medical need to be displayed on the animals harness. There are always a few that ruin a good thing for everyone.

Playing devil’s advocate here... What about for EMOTIONAL SUPPORT? Not everyone wears a sign, other in that commercial that’s on the TV where someone is holding up a smile.

On the other hand, if a < 5 pound dog is in someone’s purse, backpack, etc., and isn’t hurting anyone, why are they bothering you? I’m not an advocate for animals in stores, especially not restaurants, but it’s just another thing to complain about, even being contained in a closed/screened stroller. I think those strollers are ridiculous.

[VApeople]

I have never seen a dog misbehave in a grocery store, but if I see one doing anything that is disgusting, like licking or sniffing a grocery item, I am going to cause a scene.

I'm going to start yelling at the dogs owner and demanding to have a manager come rectify the situation. In a very loud voice, I'm going to put the manager on the spot.

Maybe the dog owner will be embarrassed enough to control his dog better.

Maybe I will get banned from the store.

We'll see how it goes.

[Velvet]

I think if you need an “emotional support” animal to go grocery shopping, stay away and have your groceries delivered.

[Chi-Town]

Well, there are specific requirements to be met before somebody's mutt qualifies as a service animal. Most of the critters folks cart around in strollers or pull along on a leash do not.

The problem, I think, is that store management doesn't have the guts to tell people they'll have to leave Fifi in the car. Pretty much a sign of the times - "don't confront anybody, don't cause a fuss." They get away with that because WE don't complain to management, we vote with our feet instead, and the problem persists. Sad.

The problem is if they leave Fifi in the car just wait until the next thread.

[Velvet]

Can’t leave the dog in a hot car - you have to take it home. If you are going shopping just don’t bring the dog, the cat or any other animal. True service animals excepted.

[Marmaduke]

Seriously, It was when visitingThe Villages about 6 years ago that I first saw the most peculiar oddity.

A baby buggy with a dog in it!

A healthy dog being pushed by a couple. When the dog barked, I jumped, i didn't know they were pushing a D-O-G-G-I-E BABY
I KNEW we were in trouble THEN!!!

[Heaven Bound]

It will b a while before I can bring my pet elethant "DOOFUS' 2 the store he has several n grown toenails.

[VApeople]

Seriously, It was when visitingThe Villages about 6 years ago that I first saw the most peculiar oddity.

A baby buggy with a dog in it!


In The Villages, it is more of an oddity to see a baby buggy with a human baby inside it.

[mermaids]

Ok with service animals, like leading a visually impaired person. What about all those little dogs riding in grocery carts? Very unsanitary!!

[retiredguy123]

Ok with service animals, like leading a visually impaired person. What about all those little dogs riding in grocery carts? Very unsanitary!!
Publix does not allow dogs to ride in shopping carts, even if they are service animals.

[EdFNJ]

Publix does not allow dogs to ride in shopping carts, even if they are service animals. Never have seen them ENFORCE that rule. Have seen a number of dogs in shopping carts both in main section and "baby" seat.

[retiredguy123]

Never have seen them ENFORCE that rule. Have seen a number of dogs in shopping carts both in main section and "baby" seat.
I haven't either, but it is their corporate policy.

[BossLady]

I could go on and on on this thread for infinity. It gets me to see a Pet Dog, out of his element in a public place. This is it. The people bring their dog (and let him smell onions or packaged meat Or feed him from the table at the patio restaurant) feel entitled to take their dog everywhere - you know who you are. Right now, reading this, YOU are justifying that you never “take Fluffy but don‘t “feed” her on the restaurant patio - well sometimes, but you’d never feed her, Fluffy might however be licking the floor or some such Dog thing, or we have to negotiate a leash or being sniffed in the crotch (true story), I could go on and on ad infinity as this particular issue... A lot of good sense is previous pages here. Sentiments of the majority follow.

Make a decision pet-owner that enhances civilized society, leave your pet at home, where it is happy and safe. If you don’t sense you are out-of-place, you are and may need to worry about being alone in public, you need a PERSON with you. Or look around At your fellow citizens. Do they all bring their pets? Is there a sign posted about your Pet like at the beach?? And then, question your own social-awareness, and rethink it. You’re not too old to change. You’re flexible and independent.

In the grocery, I’m the person, the one, who immediately has to make a determination about what to do about you and Fluffy your pet. P.S. Fluffy ~ I’m only sad for you; obviously you suffer the poor decisions of your pet owner, I’ll look for you in ”LOST PET” ads - sad). So pet-owner, No one wants to confront you because most of us are civilized and are trying to mind on our business until YOU bring another species, that requires a whole new level of PPE for doggy and us, into our communal public space (ie: Dogs shed hair, people shed hair, monkeys shed hair, all the more to land on my meat - I’d like the least amount of hair on my meat LOL - I crack myself up!)

And the leash, it’s a thing too. How often does the dog go one way, the owner go the other, trying to find a lane, and you get caught have to make a decision not to get your ankles wrapped? Our unfortunate OP who encountered the “sniffer”... yep, it’s bad dude. It’s real bad. This brings me to the Manager or Senior looking employee. Sad. They are rock-and-hard-place people at that moment. Here comes... “Emotional Support Animal”. What can they do to Mr. & Mrs. SelfishPetDependent? There is Orange Juice Concentrate melting... I feel for all of us, mostly Fluffy and my Filet Mignon.

My wish, my hope upon hope, is the Fur Baby Lover, and all pet-owners who like to shop, you know who you are, having read this Forum will understand the silent majority. We don’t want to have to figure out for ourself if your Dog is “friendly” in public places. It’s annoying. Barking dogs are like children, unless they are yours, they are absolutely horrible to listen to. I know FeFe’s mouth is not clean. And “Old Yella” sniffs his Balls all day (please people-social-distance Broccoli) Fluffy has eaten her Butt, probably earlier today.

I vote, “Leave Doggy Home”. If you’re a trademark Attorney, Message me.

[kaydee]

If the violator can’t leave fido home then stay home with Fido!!!

[jimbomaybe]

I have a pet cow I’ve trained her to give me milk when I’m thirsty. Can I bring her in too?
I was thinking about a cow as my emotional support animal but when I saw "baby" I knew he was the one "Baby" my emotional support bull moose

[PLedoux]

Both.One does not negate the other.