Heading to the grocery store and wondering if you can bring your pet with you?
Before you stop at the supermarket to pick up a few more items for that recipe you’ve been wanting to try, it might be a good idea to leave your furry friend at home as many states don’t allow pets inside food establishments.
Here’s what to know about New York’s laws.
What does New York law say about dogs and other animals in grocery stores?
Tammy Nickerson of Leslie, Mich., shops for groceries accompanied by Nala, her service dog, in Mason, Mich., in February 2025. Nickerson, a double-amputee, relies on Nala to help her with daily tasks or to seek help should Nickerson fall or find herself in danger.
You can’t bring any animal, including dogs, into a retail food store, according to the state Department of Agriculture and Markets. The law doesn’t apply to edible fish, crustacea, shellfish or fish in aquariums.
The state also says grocery stores will be cited during inspections if an animal is present and inspectors will follow up with store management if someone files a complaint about an animal being in the store.
People who are working in food operational areas also can’t handle or care for any pets, state law says.
What about service animals?
Yes, service animals, or dogs that have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability, are allowed in retail food stores in New York in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the state Department of Agriculture and Markets says.
However, emotional support, therapy, comfort or companion animals are not considered service animals under the ADA.
Emily Barnes reports on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Network’s New York Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on X and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Can you bring your dog to the grocery store in NY? What the law says
