Is REI dog friendly?

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Have you been wondering Is REI dog friendly? I’ve got some information to help clear up the confusion.

One thing most humans and their furry companions agree on is that going on outdoor adventures together is super fun! Those adventures usually require some gear. Sometimes even for your pup. So, you might be wondering you can bring your dog into REI with you the next time you go.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a clear cut answer to the question of are dogs allowed in rei? I can even see the confusion from the other posts you might have seen when you googled the question, “Is REI dog friendly” about half said no and half said yes.

I know personally, the last time I was in REI in San Jose, California, I saw at least 2 dogs hanging out with their owners. That might lead me to assume that REI is definitely dog friendly, but not so fast. REI in San Jose might be, but the REI where you are may not allow pets only service dogs.

Keep reading to discover what I learned when I reached out to an REI customer service agent and how your dog can benefit from visiting dog-friendly stores to become a better traveler and adventurer.

Can I Bring My Dog Into REI?

Can My Pet Dog Go to REI?

Since this is a topic without a clear answer, I decided to go straight to the source. I reached out to the REI customer service agent on their website and asked them directly if dogs are allowed to come inside REI stores.

The customer service agent responded and said that each store can set their own pet policy. If I have a specific question about a specific store, I could go to their store locator page, find the store I want to visit and call to ask.

I responded, “So, there’s no nation wide policy?”

The agent said no, I have to contact the individual stores. She also mentioned that different states have regulations about pets in stores, so that is part of what contributed to their decision.

She did offer the caveat that of course trained service dogs are allowed per federal regulations.

So, there you have it – the reason for all the confusion. Some stores allow it and others do not.

Unfortunately, the answer being, “it depends” and “call your local store” probably leads to frustration and complications if you arrived with your pet assuming they could go with you since they can at your home store, but not in a different state where you are traveling.

Personally, I am not a huge fan of calling to find out details like this, but if it is 90 degrees outside and you don’t have anywhere to leave your pup, it might be a good idea to check ahead of time.

If the store does allow pets, don’t allow your pet to do things that would ruin the opportunity for others.  Make sure they are well-behaved, on a leash or in a carrier, and accompanied by their owner.

Can My Trained Service Dog Go to REI?

Service dogs are specially trained animals who provide assistance to people with disabilities.

They’re not like your typical pet or emotional support animal. The difference is that service dogs undergo rigorous training programs to help their owners with specific tasks, such as guiding the blind, alerting to seizures, or providing mobility assistance. As such, they have federal protections.

That’s why pet-friendly stores like REI have policies that allow trained service dogs in their establishments, even if other pets or emotional support animals are not allowed.

In fact, store managers are trained to recognize these service dogs and accommodate their owners’ needs to ensure a seamless shopping experience.

So next time you see a service dog in REI, remember that they’re not just pets – they help make the world a more accessible place for everyone.

Can My Emotional Support Animal Go to REI?

You may be wondering if you’re allowed to bring your emotional support animal, or ESA, with you when you shop. Unfortunately, REI’s views ESAs in the same category as pets for the purpose of visiting their stores. If a location accepts pets, ESAs will be welcome. If a store only allows trained service animals, they will not.

Hidden Bonuses of the Pet-friendly REI Locations

Why a Trip to REI is preparation for Traveling and Flying With Your Dog

If you want to prepare and desensitize your dog for the airport or plane experiences, consider visiting large stores like REI if your location allows dogs.

Although these stores may appear different at first glance, they actually share several similarities with the airport – from narrow walkways and bustling crowds to intercom announcements and various distractions.

By gradually exposing your dog to these conditions in a controlled manner, you can help them become more comfortable and less anxious in similar situations. Our Norwich Terrier, Denver, used to get anxious, especially with loud noises. Instead of leaving him at home, we took a different approach. We stocked up on treats and rewarded Denver with a bite of cheese every time he encountered something new. This allowed Denver to form positive associations with the hustle and bustle.

One advantage of practicing at stores like REI is that you can easily return home if your dog becomes too stressed or overwhelmed, allowing you to gradually increase their tolerance over time.

REI Pet Gear

REI actually has a large selection of dog supplies for sale. Sometimes it might be easier to just buy the bowl or treat pouch online and not deal with bringing Toto to the store. I have found online selection to be quite a bit larger than what is available in the store, so you might be better off going that route.

Other times, if you want to get a life jacket or a harness, it helps to try it the same way as you can try on a pair of shoes to make sure they fit. If the location you are visiting is not dog-friendly, you can ask a sales person to assist with sizing. You can show them a photo of your pet, and they can help you select the best option.

They do have a very customer friendly returns policy, so you can return or exchange it if it ends up not fitting.

Creative Solutions for REIs with No Pet Policies: Finding Alternatives for Shopping With Your Furry Companions

Looking for pet-friendly stores? If your local REI doesn’t allow pets, don’t worry! There are plenty of other options for you to explore.

At PetSmart, we pride ourselves on being the ultimate pet supply destination. With locations across the country, we embrace pets and offer a wide range of pet-related products and experiences. Bring your furry friend along and enjoy the joy of socialization!

Feeling the DIY spirit? Look no further than Home Depot. Not only can you find everything you need for your projects, but well-behaved, leashed pets are also welcome here. It’s a great opportunity to expose your furry companion to a bustling environment while practicing desensitization.

If you’re an arts and crafts enthusiast, Michaels is the place to be. We extend a warm welcome to well-behaved and leashed pets. Explore our creative haven and enjoy bonding time with your beloved dog while practicing desensitization and socialization.

No matter which option you choose, these pet-friendly stores provide a fantastic opportunity for you and your furry companion to have a great time together!

Final Thoughts For Those Wondering, “Is REI Dog Friendly?”

A store by store policy is not ideal since it makes it difficult to plan and there is always the risk of being turned away.

Save yourself some trouble and just confirm the rules for your local store and call ahead if you are going on a special trip.

If you are able to bring Fido with you, it can be a great opportunity for training and desensitization as well as getting ready for big adventures.

While I understand it is frustrating not to have a straightforward answer, this guide should help point you in the right direction.