Can you take your dog into a grocery store in NC? Here’s what state law says
If some dog owners had it their way, they would bring their four-legged friends with them everywhere.
There are many bars, breweries and restaurants in Charlotte where canines are more than welcome.
Even retail stores, such as The Home Depot, Tractor Supply Co. and Bass Pro Shops allow dogs in most locations, according to Rover. And of course, pets are usually welcome in pet stores such as PetSmart and Petco.
But can you take your dog with you while your grocery shopping? Here’s what state law says.
Can you take your dog into a grocery store in NC?
The only animals allowed inside grocery stores are service animals.
The Americans with Disabilities Act defines service animals as animals that are “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.”
North Carolina law says every person with a disability has the “right to be accompanied by a service animal” on all modes of transportation and in public places.
People with service animals can register them with the state by filling out a form online, but it is not required, according to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services.
According to the ADA, “a public entity may ask if the animal is required because of a disability and what work or task the animal has been trained to perform. A public entity shall not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal.”
The ADA does not require service animals to wear special vests or collars, but it is recommended to avoid problems with businesses that don’t allow pets.
Federal law prohibits all other dogs from grocery stores to prevent “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,” the TCPalm reported.
What about emotional support animals?
“Emotional support” is a term used to describe animals that provide comfort just by being around a person, according to Disability Rights North Carolina, a group that advocates for the rights of disabled people.
These animals do not qualify as service animals under the ADA, since they are not trained to perform a specific task.
What happens if you misrepresent your pet as a service animal?
Disguising a pet as a service animal is a misdemeanor in North Carolina, punishable by a $200 fine plus court costs, according to DRNC.
This story was originally published July 8, 2024 at 11:29 AM with the headline "Can you take your dog into a grocery store in NC? Here’s what state law says."
