Washington Walmart Stores Pet Policy—Here’s What’s You Need to Know

Walmart is cracking down on its service animal policy.

Only ADA-Defined Service Animals Will Be Allowed In-Store

My hometown of Clarkston, Washington, was the first to update its policy on a Facebook posting over the weekend.

Guidelines reinforce the distinction between service animals and other types, such as emotional support animals (ESAs) and comfort or therapy pets.

Only service animals trained to assist individuals with disabilities are permitted in stores, while ESAs and pets are explicitly excluded

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Walmart’s general corporate policy states that non-service animals are not allowed in-store due to health and safety rules. Service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are allowed even if no vest or documentation is shown.

So what does that mean for you?

It might surprise you to discover that Walmart employees are only allowed to ask two questions when an animal enters the store.

According to the ADA National Network, here are the two questions: (1) Is it required because of a disability? and (2) What task has it been trained to perform?

They cannot demand certification, ask about the medical condition, or request paperwork.

One big reminder on the posted policy from the Clarkston Walmart was that even service animals are not allowed to ride in shopping carts. As September kicks off, don't be surprised if you are approached by Walmart employees enforcing this service animal policy.

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