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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.
9 Comments
n/a
6/8/2010 02:31:08 pm
Did you ever take the time to ASK REI??? 6/8/2010 05:08:26 pm
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
4/13/2011 11:58:01 am
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?
jodi beck
7/19/2011 07:04:06 am
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
6/18/2012 03:06:09 am
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! 9/16/2012 07:00:10 pm
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
4/29/2013 07:03:09 am
I don't agree that it is "RIDICULOUS !!!" It's just their policy.
Zack
5/7/2013 02:08:02 pm
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.
Jane powell
10/16/2018 10:45:49 am
Yesterday, the Greenville REI store manager told me my dog was not allowed. My dog has been in the store 5 other times; I have purchased dog equipment from the store; the same dog was welcomed in the large Denver store. I left the store and returned with her therapy certification and was allowed to complete my purchases. A long time pleased REI customer, I am extremely disappointed that a coop company that sells equipment for dogs has chosen to have a policy of NOT allowing well behaved dogs. Hobby lobby, Academy, Lowes, Home Depot, etc. allow well behaved dogs. I want REI to reevaluate the reason for the no dog policy as well as train their employees to be polite and respectful in dealing with All customers. Leave a Reply. |
About KyleGrowing 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. Archives
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