Several readers recently submitted letters to Ocala-News.com to share their thoughts on whether or not pets should be allowed in local stores.
Last month, Publix made national headlines when the company reinforced its “no pets allowed” policy at locations across the southeast, including stores in Ocala/Marion County.
“I’m a dog owner and I take my dog everywhere I go. First of all, she’s perfectly healthy and updated on all her shots. Next of all, I have a dog stroller that she rides in. I don’t want her in a nasty grocery cart. Also, my dog is always groomed and very social with elderly people. I’m having a hard time understanding what would be a problem with that. No one has to be around us. I actually prefer people with kids to stay away from us (too many germs for me). Do I judge people for not taking care of things? Sometimes. I am sick and tired of seeing nasty, disgusting baby diapers on the side of the road and in parking lots at stores. Those people need to be fined. Anyhow, this is punishing responsible dog owners, not just the irresponsible owners,” says Ocala resident Tammie Woelk.
“I think it is inappropriate to bring your pets into stores unless they meet ADA requirements. You don’t get a pass for “comfort animals.” Fines and legal action may be what it takes to stop this practice. Shall I bring my pet chicken into Walgreens?” says Jackie White, Orange Lake resident.
“This is something that has to be handled better. Since disabled people were allowed to take their pets with them shopping, which is totally appropriate, everyone is taking advantage of the situation. It’s slowly sliding away from the real reason they are allowed. Everyone feels the right to take their dog inside now, knowing it won’t be a problem because the rules are not enforced. That is the problem with this country, rules are totally obsolete anymore and no one cares. Everyone is entitled these days to do as they wish. Gosh, put your foot down and say NO. And yes, people can buy the little vests online with no RX or note. There is no respect and this sort of stuff is just the tip of the iceberg. I asked an employee about saying something and she told me she wasn’t allowed. They can only ask if it’s a special needs dog, and if they say yes, that’s it. Every little thing we let people get away with just rolls onto bigger things,” says Anthony resident Lisa Scott.