Are Dogs Allowed In CVS? Important Rules to Know

It seems like these days, your dog is welcome almost everywhere you are! Many retailers now allow dogs to join their owners when they shop in their stores. You rarely have to leave your dog at home, whether you visit a home improvement store or shop for clothing. But not all chain stores allow dogs and other animals. For example, drugstores may be a bit more strict. And that includes the chain pharmacy CVS. Dogs are sometimes allowed in CVS. But not always. Because there is no official policy, some stores may allow pets when others don’t. Here’s what to know about taking your dog to CVS.

Is CVS Dog-Friendly?

CVS does not have an official policy that states if they allow pet and emotional support dogs in their stores. Therefore, it’s often left to the discretion of the store manager. That makes it more dog-friendly than many other pharmacy chains. Some CVS locations may welcome well-behaved dogs who are leashed. However, other CVS locations have the right to refuse entry to any pet or emotional support animal. Local health regulations may also play a factor in whether or not pet dogs or emotional support animals can enter the store. The best way to know whether your local CVS store will allow your dog is to call the store first and ask. 

Keep in mind that CVS stores that sell food products or have a large grocery area generally may not allow dogs. Pets are usually not allowed to enter areas where food is sold, but this depends on local ordinances. Additionally, many CVS locations provide health services, and pet dogs may not be welcome for the safety of customers.

Does CVS Always Allow Service Animals?

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals are allowed by law to go everywhere in public that their owner is allowed to go. The dog should wear their service vest when they enter the store. CVS employees cannot question what a service dog is trained to do, ask for paperwork, or demand that a service dog demonstrate their training. The ADA does not apply to emotional support animals. Therefore, they may or may not be allowed into an individual CVS store. Federal law protects service dogs’ access to stores, but emotional support animals do not fall under this protection.

Tips for Bringing Your Pet to CVS

If your local CVS store does allow dogs, you should follow the rules of good pet ownership. Keep your dog leashed and under control. Do not let your pet bother other customers or other animals. Make sure your dog doesn’t disrupt merchandise. And if your pet has an accident, be prepared to clean it up immediately. If you’re unsure if a CVS allows dogs that aren’t service dogs, it’s best to leave your furry friend behind. Just because you think your dog is the best thing in the world, it doesn’t mean others do too.