Mandy
Thinking of taking your dog along while you shop for groceries? Before you head out with your furry companion, it’s important to understand New York state laws regarding animals in supermarkets and other food establishments.
Many states — including New York — place strict rules on pets in places where food is sold or prepared.
New York’s Rules on Pets in Grocery Stores
According to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, pets are not allowed inside retail food stores. This restriction applies to all animals, including dogs, with only a few specific exceptions.
The rule does not apply to:
- Edible fish
- Crustacea
- Shellfish
- Fish kept in aquariums
State officials also note that Grocery Stores can be issued violations during inspections if an animal is found inside.
Additionally, if a shopper files a complaint about an animal in a store, inspectors will follow up directly with store management.
New York law also states that employees working in food preparation or operational zones are prohibited from handling or caring for pets.
Are Service Animals Allowed?
Yes. Service animals — specifically dogs trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability — are fully permitted in New York grocery stores under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
However, it’s important to understand the distinction:
- Allowed: Service dogs trained for specific tasks
- Not considered service animals: Emotional support animals, therapy animals, comfort animals, or companion pets
These non-task-trained animals do not receive the ADA protections that service animals do.
Conclusion
In New York, pets are generally not permitted inside grocery stores, and stores can face citations for allowing them.
The only major exception applies to ADA-recognized service dogs, which must be allowed entry. To avoid issues — and ensure compliance with health regulations — most shoppers should plan to leave their pets at home when visiting retail food establishments.
FAQs
1. Can I bring my dog into a New York supermarket if it stays in a carrier?
No. New York law prohibits all pets inside retail food stores, regardless of whether they walk or stay in a carrier.
2. Are emotional support animals treated the same as service dogs?
No. Emotional support animals do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not allowed in grocery stores.
3. Can a store deny access to a service dog?
A store may ask if the dog is a service animal and what task it performs, but cannot deny entry to a properly trained service dog.