Does CVS Allow Dogs? (Pet Policy Explained)

From food and treats to grooming supplies and from medical prescriptions to dental kits, CVS has got you covered for all your pet-related needs.

But as a pet owner, you might be wondering whether or not CVS allows dogs into its stores. I searched up CVS Pet policy, and here is what I found out!

Does CVS Allow Dogs?

While CVS does not have an official pet policy, CVS is considered very lenient in allowing dog owners to bring their pets in-store. Many customers reports state that dogs will be allowed in-store as long as the dog is friendly and well-behaved. Additionally, CVS does allow service animals and emotional support animals.

To learn more about CVS pet policy and ways to ensure a successful trip to your local CVS, keep on reading!

CVS Is Very Lenient For Allowing Dogs In-store

Compared to other stores such as Walgreens and Walmart, CVS takes a very relaxed approach to allow dogs into its stores.

Many CVS customers have stated that as long as

your pet doesn’t showcase any harmful behavior towards a customer or against the interest of the store, CVS is more than happy to welcome your pets.

However, pets are required to be kept on a leash and under human supervision at all times.

Additionally, customers report that several CVS pharmacy locations that allow dogs in stores also stock up on dog treats over the counter for dog visitors.

Does CVS Have A Consistent Pet Policy?

Even though most CVS stores are pet-friendly, not all CVS locations allow pets inside.

This is primarily because CVS does not have an official and consistent pet policy, and the policy may differ according to state regulations (if any).

However, CVS does allow service animals at all pharmacy locations, in coordination with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) which obligates businesses to welcome service animals along with their owner.

How Can I Know If My Local CVS Allows Dogs?

Unfortunately, CVS does not have a company-wide pet policy or an updated list of store locations that allow dogs inside.

A location’s policy may vary per local regulations or depending on the personal management policies of the pharmacy.

As a result, the only way to find out whether your local CVS allows dogs or not is to ask the staff or to call beforehand and inquire. You can find the contact information of your local CVS here.

Do All CVS Locations Allow Service Animals?

Do All CVS Locations Allow Service Animals?

Yes, under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all CVS store locations are compelled to allow service animals inside.

As long as the animal is kept on a leash and does not pose a threat to any customer or property, CVS is more than happy to welcome the pooch!

What Do I Need To Know Before Bringing My Service Animal To CVS?

If you decide to bring your service animal along with you to a CVS store, it’s important that you are well aware of your rights provided under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

In cases where the status of your dog as a service animal is not entirely obvious, the staff is allowed to ask you only the following two specific questions.

  • Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
  • What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

Know that the staff is restricted from inquiring about the nature of your disability and from demanding any documentation or demonstration of your dog’s assistance.

Tips To Keep In Mind When Bringing Your Dog To A CVS:

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when visiting a CVS store along with your dog to ensure a successful and conducive shopping experience:

  • Make sure your dog is well-fed.
  • Allow him/her to relieve themselves before entering.
  • Either keep them on a small leash or use a carrier or crate at all times.
  • Help them stay calm by removing any stress-evoking elements.

To check out the pet policy of other retailers around America, also see my guides on; Does Walmart, Target, Walgreens and IKEA Allow Dogs?

Conclusion

CVS stores are generally pet-friendly, and they do allow dogs and other pets at most of their pharmacy locations. However, they do not have a consistent pet policy, and therefore it is possible that your local CVS might not allow your dog inside.

Additionally, It’s important to note that CVS cannot deny entrance to your service animal in accordance with the ADA regulations. Happy shopping to you!

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Marques Thomas

Marques Thomas graduated with a MBA in 2011. Since then, Marques has worked in the retail and consumer service industry as a manager, advisor, and marketer. Marques is also the head writer and founder of QuerySprout.com.

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