Why does REI refuse dogs in its stores?

04/27/2010

I recently ordered something from REI online and had it delivered to the Lincoln Park store for me to pick up. When I was notified that it had arrived, I decided to stop by the store on one of my walks with Gatsby to retrieve my purchase. When I arrived at the store, I was very surprised and disappointed to read "Service Animals Only" in large bold letters on the doors. When I asked the cashier if they really do not let dogs in the store, she replied, "That's right. Is that bad?"

Seriously? REI sells dog coats, treats, toys, boots and other dog essentials so why can't I bring my dog into the store? Stores like Best Buy, Neiman Marcus and Office Depot gladly welcome owners to shop with their dogs, so why can't a store that specializes in outdoor activities and sells pet merchandise do the same?

I have decided to ask for help from other dog owners to convince the CEO of REI, Sally Jewell, that REI must change its policy. Please help me send a message to Sally by "signing" the electronic petition below.

Comments

n/a

06/08/2010 11:31pm

Did you ever take the time to ASK REI???

REI used to allows dogs inside until there was an incident where a dog displayed a hostile behavior. That incident imposed the ban on dogs. I know this because I asked an associate at REI when I was shopping there.

Kyle Rothfus link

06/09/2010 2:08am

Thanks "n/a" for the comment. I did ask REI before posting this blog and was told it is because of potential damage to merchandise. Either way, I'm sure stores like PetSmart, Petco and small pet boutiques have experienced hostile dogs and damaged merchandise, but they don't ban dogs because of it. If a store is going to sell dog merchandise, then it should be dog-friendly and be willing to accept risks that may come with that. Otherwise, dog owners should take their business to dog-friendly stores for dog merchandise.

Liz

04/13/2011 8:58pm

I think that any store that is going to sell dog coats and backpacks ought to allow dogs in. Otherwise, how do you know if it's actually going to FIT your dog?

I read that Bass Pro (Gurnee) has their greeters approach each person with a dog who wants to come in, to make sure the dogs are friendly and well-behaved before they allow them.

jodi beck

07/19/2011 4:04pm

they told me it was because they sold food, sealed, packaged and totally protected from the environment food, believe me, the sales associates are just underpaid retail workers, they have no idea why policies are set. how are you supposed to fit a dog with gear?

Judith Babarsky

06/18/2012 12:06pm

I did not realize that REI had changed their policy. This is RIDICULOUS !!! I can take my dogs to the patio seating of several VERY NICE restaurants in my area, I can take them to MULTIPLE other stores (and NOT just pet stores). My dogs are well-behaved and not aggressive. REI needs to change their policy!

Pet supplies link

09/17/2012 4:00am

Wow! Thank you! I always wanted to write in my site something like that. Can I take part of your post to my blog?

Gene

04/29/2013 4:03pm

I don't agree that it is "RIDICULOUS !!!" It's just their policy.

Zack

05/07/2013 11:08pm

I just bought three different items for my dog and none of them fit. I decided to return them and go to a pet-friendly store to make all my purchases. Their no dog policy is rediculous.

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About Kyle

Growing up in the country in Pennsylvania gave me tons of experience with animals from a very early age. I later pursued a career in horseback riding and also have experience as a veterinary technician. I have a strong passion for animals and have an uncanny ability to connect with all sorts of furry friends. I look forward to walking dogs for Get Pet every day and can't think of a better way to spend my time!