Publix Pet Policy

Ever since Publix incorporated their "pet" policy, I have not seen any until now. While waiting for a chicken tender dinner, this customer brought in his cute little dog: Pet? ESA? Service dog? Who the h*ll knows.

Are Service Dogs Allowed in Publix?

Publix recognizes and welcomes all service dogs who are trained to accompany their handler into their stores and will even provide personal shopping assistance for individuals with disabilities. They ask that service dogs are fully trained (service dogs who are still in training may not legally be considered service dogs until training is complete) and able to behave in the store in such a way that doesn’t disturb or put other shoppers at risk.

Are Emotional Support Animals (ESA) Allowed in Publix?

Emotional support animals (ESAs) aren’t allowed in Publix. Unfortunately for individuals who get support from ESAs, emotional support animals aren’t protected by public access laws under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and travel under the Department of Transportation (DOT) in the same way that service dogs are. This is one of the main differences between emotional support dogs and service dogs along with training.

While service dogs and other service animals must be individually trained to perform tasks that provide support to their handlers, emotional support animals provide support with little other than their presence and affection.

Are Dogs on a Leash Allowed in Publix? Dogs on a leash are allowed in Publix only if they are service dogs.