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Have you ever adopted a new puppy and tried several different puppy foods to find something he loves, but he’s just not into anything you’re offering him? Or has your older dog suddenly developed an aversion to the food he’s been eating for years? If so, you might be wondering if there’s any chance you might be able to score a refund or credit for the food you’ve bought but could not use. If the food in question is from Walmart, we have the answers you’re looking for. Yes, you can return dog food to Walmart, but there are a few stipulations.
Keep reading to learn everything you’ve wanted to know about Walmart’s pet food return policy.
Will Walmart Let Me Return Dog Food?
Walmart’s official returns policy states that you can return pet food purchases to their stores. For the vast majority of in-store purchases, you’ll have 90 days to bring the item back to receive a full refund. Their policy states that you can return any food item within that 90-day period only if you have the original receipt. Your local store should be able to look up in-store purchases using your debit or credit card.
The return policy also states that if you’re not 100% satisfied with any of the Walmart Private Brand items, they’ll replace them or refund you your money and all you need to do is show the packaging. Walmart Private Brands includes the dog food brand Ol’ Roy.
There are some exceptions to Walmart’s return policy. If you wish to return your dog’s food and no longer have the receipt, you must have valid government-issued identification with you. It may be that the store will only offer you a straight exchange in this situation which may not be helpful if you’re trying to return food that your dog doesn’t like.
The store may also provide a cash refund if the value of the food you’re returning is less than $10. The decision to issue a cash refund is often left to the manager on duty’s discretion. You may receive a gift card for the amount of the food if it is over $10.
How Can I Return My Dog Food?
- The easiest way is to return to your local Walmart and begin the process in person. You will need to bring the unopened food as well as photo identification to the customer service desk.
- You can also go through the returns process via the Walmart.com website or their mobile app. You will be required to return the unopened food in its original packaging via snail mail. Before going this route, however, we do recommend speaking with Walmart’s customer service to ensure the product you’re trying to return is returnable.
The Walmart.com website will offer up to four methods for pickup return. You can return the product at your local store, send it back to them via USPS or FedEx, drop off the item at a local FedEx location, or schedule a time and place for FedEx to pick up the item.
Will They Accept Opened Pet Food?
Yes, pet food that has already been opened is still eligible for return at most Walmart stores. The food must have been purchased within the 90-day returns window to be eligible, and you still must have the original receipt.
It is important to note that the fine print on Walmart’s returns policy states that they have the right to modify the terms of the policy at any time. It also says that Walmart can limit or decline returns even if you’re providing a receipt. All of the decisions regarding returns will be ultimately left to the store manager.
What If I Bought My Dog Food Online?
Walmart appears to have a separate return policy on items purchased online vs. in-store. You can begin the returns process on the Walmart.com online portal.
If you bought your dog’s food from WalmartPetRX.com, you should know your purchase has a 100% satisfaction guarantee. However, this guarantee only applies if the product is unused and unopened or if its packaging is in like-new condition and if the returns process is started within 30 days of purchase. You will be expected to send the item back to their Returns department in Florida at your own cost.
This policy likely won’t apply to you unless you accidentally purchased the wrong food and haven’t already opened it.
If you have any questions about your WalmartPetRX.com order, send them to their customer care department at customercare@walmartpetrx.com or speak to a customer care representative by calling 1 (877) 753-4126.
What Should I Do with Unreturnable Opened Food?
What happens if the manager at your local Walmart will not entertain the idea of returning your opened pet food?
You can try making the food more appetizing so your dog might eventually eat some of the food. If the offending food is canned, try using it as a kibble topper to see if your pup will become more interested. If the food he doesn’t like is kibble, try adding wet food on top of it to try and entice him to eat more.
You might also consider donating the food to your local animal shelter or rescue organization.
Conclusion
While Walmart’s return policy is great, it isn’t without flaws. If you’re interested in returning your opened dog food, we recommend calling your local store and speaking to the customer service desk or the manager first. Since the final decision regarding returns is ultimately up to the manager of your store, it’s best to chat with them before getting your hopes up.
- Related Read: Are Dogs Allowed in Walmart? Pet Policy & FAQ
Featured Image Credit: Caftor, Shutterstock
2 Responses
I was faced with this situation recently and I wanted to share what I personally ended up doing with the dog food I wasn't able to return. IT was unopened and nothing wrong with it, but I spent 50 bucks on the bag so I couldn't afford to take that much of a loss. I decided to list it on social media marketplace for a discounted price, but I still was able to get the majority of the money I spent back.
Thanks for sharing this, Jet! I’m sure it’ll be helpful to anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation. 😊