Need to go pick up some new sporting goods or fitness apparel and want to take your dog along with you when you go shopping?
Well, if Academy Sports + Outdoors is the sporting goods store that you’ll be going to then you are in luck.
Yes, Academy Sports + Outdoors stores do allow dogs in the store in most locations as it is up to the store manager. However some locations don’t allow dogs inside unless the dog is a service animal.
Keep reading for more details on the pet policy at Academy Sports + Outdoors stores.
Is Academy Sports + Outdoors A Dog Friendly Store?
Many retailers are pet-friendly, meaning that they allow pet owners to bring pets of all sorts onto the premises.
This is actually very common among sports stores.
Yes, Academy is a pet-friendly store in most locations, but not all.
The company wants to ensure that the Academy Sports + Outdoors locations remain safe and enjoyable for all shoppers.
Therefore, they let the manager of each store location make the final decision as to if non-service animals are allowed in the store with shoppers.
The company takes all things into consideration, such as allergic reactions that other customers might have.
They also consider that small children might fear the animals, and untrained animals may cause health hazards inside the store.
Their overall attitude toward pets in the store is welcoming in many locations.
What Is Academy’s Official Policy on Dogs?
Academy Sports + Outdoors does have an official pets policy for your dog.
Per staff at Academy, dogs are all allowed at all Academy store locations in the United States.
When asked on the official Academy Sports + Outdoors Facebook page, this is what they had to say:
Here’s the transcript of that screenshot, with only the relevant answer to this pet-friendly question:
Yes, you can bring your pet into the Academy store. I have been told any type of dog [is okay].
Does Academy’s Dog Policy Vary Across Locations?
Yes, the pet-friendly policy of Academy Sports + Outdoors stores can vary across store locations since it is ultimately up to the staff at each store if dogs should be let into the location.
A good rule of thumb is to just call up the store location that you intend to visit with your dog and ask if they will let you both into the store.
Or, just show up and ask upon arrival, knowing that you may be refused entry.
Final Thoughts
If you end up at your local Academy Sports + Outdoors store and have your dog with you, then you should feel free to take your doggo into the store with you.
Just make sure that your dog is well behaved and on a leash.
And keep in mind that some stores actually don’t permit dogs inside, so it’s best to call and check in advance – or just ask upon arrival.
Of course, pick up after the dog if he goes to the bathroom in the store.
And if you’re planning ahead, then it doesn’t hurt to call the Academy Sports + Outdoors store you’ll be shopping at to check on their dogs policy in advance.