Publix is a place for produce, buy-one-get-one prices and its selection of sandwiches known as Pub Subs.
The famed chain of Florida supermarkets are places where all are welcome, perhaps especially world-renowned soccer stars like Lionel Messi. Pets? Not so much.
Customers are starting to notice large signs placed at the front of Publix grocery stores throughout Florida, reminding shoppers that only service animals are allowed in the store — not personal pets, and not even emotional support animals.
The difference between service animals and emotional support animals is a distinct one, as the sign on the door explains in detail.
“Under federal law, service animals are dogs or miniature horses trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities,” the sign reads. “Non-service animals are not allowed in grocery stores by the FDA. Dogs, pets, and other animals whose sole function is to provide comfort, companionship, or emotional support do not qualify as service animals and are not permitted in Publix, even with a doctor’s note.”
The company’s policy on service animals has existed for years. However, it’s not clear what led Publix to roll out the new in-store signs, and a spokesperson for the company’s South Florida region did not immediately respond to a request to comment.
Customers agree Publix’s policy is a smart safety precaution
A regular at the Publix on Southern Boulevard, who identified himself only as Jeff, said he relies on a service dog to cope with his ongoing cancer battle and his past experiences in the military. He said the store policy is a smart safety precaution.
“A lot of other dogs aren’t friendly,” he said. “You don’t want mean dogs in there, because they might get a scent on somebody and bite them.”
Another man, who identified himself only as Mark, shopped directly next to the Southern Boulevard Publix on Saturday morning, at the neighboring Pet Supermarket. He said the new signs are a valuable reminder that animals and grocery stores…
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