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Hobby Lobby has massive stores, and it’s easy to lose track of time when browsing the aisles for arts and crafts items. This can leave your furry friend stressed and wondering when you’ll return home. But is it possible to take your pet with you to the store? Are dogs allowed in Hobby Lobby?
The short answer is yes! Most Hobby-Lobby stores are pet-friendly and allow people to tag along with their pets when shopping. However, some rules apply to ensure your dog doesn’t create a mess or bother other customers.
Dive in for detailed answers to common questions about Hobby Lobby’s pet policies. We’ll also share tips to ensure you have the best shopping experience when visiting the store with your furry companion.
Can My Dog Tag Along When Shopping at Hobby Lobby?
Hobby Lobby has over 700 stores spread across the country. While most stores are pet-friendly and allow dogs, some don’t because of location, municipal regulations, or the manager’s values and preferences. For instance, a store located inside a mall may or may not allow dogs depending on the mall’s pet policies.
It’s also crucial to note that even pet-friendly Hobby Lobby stores can allow some, but not all, dogs into their premises. For instance, you could be turned away if your dog is poorly behaved or unleashed.
If you would like your dog to tag along when shopping at your local Hobby Lobby, the easiest way to avoid nasty surprises is to contact the store first. Ask about their pet policies and any requirements you must meet to access the premises in the company of your furry friend.
Service and Guide Dogs Exception
Even Hobby Lobby stores that don’t allow pets are obligated by law to let certain dogs into their premises. Service and guide dogs enjoy certain protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Both can access any Hobby Lobby store. Therefore, it is unnecessary to contact the management before showing up with your pet.
Hobby Lobby Pet Policy
Unfortunately, Hobby Lobby has no official pet policy on its website. Still, the store maintains that it is pet-friendly, and it is up to the management at different locations to decide whether to welcome pets.
If you contact the management of a store you want to visit and they allow you to come with your pet, this does not guarantee you will not be turned away. You can avoid awkward moments by first evaluating your pet’s personality. If you doubt, it can remain on its best behavior throughout; it’s better to leave it in a boarding facility or at home with a pet sitter.
Tips for Shopping at Hobby Lobby with Your Dog
It is general knowledge that Hobby Lobby has its doors open to pets. Still, the management at each location has the final say. If you are lucky to live close to a store that welcomes pets, here are some general rules you must abide by.
Keep Your Dog on a Leash at All Times
Even well-mannered dogs act unpredictably when they see new faces or other pets. A rule enforced by Hobby Lobby to ensure safety is that all pets must be kept on a leash. Ensure your leash is no more than 6 feet long to keep your pet close to you at all times.
Don’t Put Your Dog Directly on the Shopping Cart
The Hobby Lobby management has no problem with dogs that love riding on shopping push carts. However, before your furry friend hops in, you must spread a mat or blanket on the trolley. This minimizes fur on the carts and prevents the risk of your pet’s paw getting stuck between the tiny holes at the base.
Always Clean Up After Your Pet
Dogs at least a year old have excellent control of their bladders and bowels. They can hold their pee for 6 to 6 hours and poop once or twice daily. Generally, you should have an accident-free shopping experience if you take a potty break right before entering the store.
Furthermore, you should have the necessary supplies to clean after your pet if an accident happens. Before leaving home, ensure you have a leash, a mat, and the following items.
- Gloves
- Poop bags
- Paper towels
- Dog grooming wipes
- Hand sanitizer
Keep Your Pet On Its Best Behavior
The first rule to ensure a smooth shopping experience is always to keep your pet at your side. If it is walking on a leash, ask it to sit when you stop to check out items you want to buy. Also, have some treats within reach to distract your furry friend if it starts barking at other people or pets.
Depending on your pet’s personality, you may want to spend an hour or less in the store. It is common for even well-mannered dogs to act out once they get bored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hobby Lobby Have Any Dog Breed Restrictions?
Hobby Lobby doesn’t have an official pet policy, meaning the management has to set the rules depending on the situation. Generally, all dog breeds are allowed, provided they are well-mannered. However, some breeds are known for being aggressive and may intimidate other shoppers.
There is a high chance of being turned away if you have a Pitbull, Rottweiler, or Dobermann.
When Can the Hobby Lobby Management Ask My Dog and Me to Leave?
Even though Hobby Lobby is pet-friendly, shoppers don’t have an absolute right to bring their pets. The management can ask you to leave if your pet is unruly or ill-mannered. Also, you will likely have to go if you come with a dog that intimidates other shoppers because of its size or breed. Always consult the store management beforehand to avoid an unpleasant experience.
Is Hobby Lobby the Only Pet-Friendly Store?
No. Numerous other stores allow pets into all or some of their branches. A few great examples include Lowes, Petco, and The Apple Store. These stores also have rules that apply if you want to access the premises with your pet.
Final Thoughts
If you love going on shopping sprees, you don’t need to leave your dog behind when visiting Hobby Lobby. The stores are pet-friendly, although you must call the management at the location you want to visit and confirm the applicable rules.
So, should you take your dog shopping at Hobby Lobby?
It depends. Although browsing the aisles with your furry friend at your side sounds fun, it is not always a good idea. Not all dogs can enjoy the experience, and some may start showing signs of stress or anxiety after a few minutes. If your pet has a bad time visiting malls, it doesn’t hurt to consider other fun activities.
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Featured Image Credit: Augustcindy, Shutterstock
