Many pet parents enjoy taking their dogs with them while shopping, but it’s important to find out if a store allows dogs before bringing your furry friend along. Aldi, a popular grocery chain with over 2,200 stores in the USA, has a pet policy that prohibits dogs. Let’s learn more about it.
Aldi’s Pet Policy
Aldi does not have an official published pet policy, but it is clear from customer inquiries and responses from the company’s customer care that dogs and other pets are not allowed in their stores, except for service animals.
Why Are Pets Prohibited in Aldi Stores?
The reason behind Aldi’s no-pets policy is the federal requirements set in place by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to FDA’s Food Guide, live animals are not permitted in establishments that deal with the processing, packaging, and distribution of human food, including grocery stores and restaurants. The exception to this rule is service dogs.
The main concern is that dogs can pose serious health risks as their fur and saliva harbor bacteria that can be transferred to food. This can lead to foodborne illnesses. To maintain cleanliness and food safety standards, Aldi chooses to prohibit pets in their stores.
Service Dogs in Aldi Stores
Service dogs, which are trained to perform tasks for disabled individuals, are allowed in all Aldi stores. These dogs assist people with disabilities by performing various tasks such as reminding them to take medication and providing support during panic attacks. Service dogs are legally protected and must be allowed in all public places.
How to Shop at Aldi with a Dog
If you have a dog and need to shop at Aldi, don’t worry! Aldi has partnered with Instacart, a company that offers pickup and delivery services. Simply download the Instacart app, place your order, and schedule a delivery. Instacart will receive, collect, and deliver your groceries to your doorstep within hours, allowing you to shop conveniently with your dog at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bring my dog to Aldi?
No, Aldi does not allow dogs in their stores, except for service dogs.
2. What is the reason behind Aldi’s no-pets policy?
Aldi follows federal requirements set by the FDA, which prohibit live animals in establishments that deal with human food due to health and safety concerns.
3. Can I shop at Aldi if I have a dog with me?
Yes, you can still shop at Aldi with your dog by using their pickup and delivery service provided by Instacart.
4. What are service dogs?
Service dogs are specially trained animals that assist people with disabilities by performing various tasks and providing support.
Conclusion
Aldi does not allow dogs in their stores to comply with FDA food safety regulations. However, they do allow service dogs, which must be leashed at all times. If a service dog fails to meet the minimum requirements of being well-behaved, store employees may need to remove the dog. In such cases, a shopping assistant may be assigned to help you. For more information about Aldi, visit Pawsoha today.
Featured Image Credit: Max Pelikan, Shutterstock