Does TJ Maxx Allow Dogs? (2024 Update)
Updated on
Spending the day out hitting up your favorite stores is not only fun but a great way to socialize and get a bit of exercise. While it may be common to take off with family members or friends when going on a shopping spree, for dog owners, there’s a 4-legged family member at home that doesn’t want to be left out. This leaves many dog owners trying to find out if their favorite stores allow dogs.
One of the most popular stores around is TJ Maxx. With the mass popularity this store has, it’s understandable that pet owners would ask, does TJ Maxx allow dogs? The answer to this question is a bit tricky. Yes, most TJ Maxx locations are pet-friendly. Unfortunately, they must abide by state and local regulations that may make it impossible for them to allow a dog inside.
Let’s learn a bit more about TJ Maxx, their pet policy, and how you can take your dog along for a great day of shopping.
Dogs at TJ Maxx
Overall, TJ Maxx is considered a pet-friendly shopping destination. While the company’s overall policy is to allow pets in, they do leave it up to the discretion of the individual store’s manager to make the final call. You’ll also find that in certain states, there are rules in place that will keep pets out of department stores like TJ Maxx. If this is the case, the store has no choice but to follow state guidelines.
Technically speaking, not only are dogs allowed in TJ Maxx, but locations that allow dogs in will also accept other pets. This means a cat, bird, or reptile could hitch a ride and go shopping with you. However, no matter what pet you bring to TJ Maxx, always remember to practice proper etiquette and keep your pet out of mischief so they’ll be welcomed back each time you want to shop.
Service Animals and TJ Maxx
As most people know, the Americans with Disabilities Act allows those with service animals to take them anywhere they go without issue. It is against the law to turn away a service dog or another type of animal. You’ll also find that no one is permitted to ask you to tell them your reason for having a service animal, anything about your medical history, or other types of proof of your situation. You could be questioned on what tasks your service animal is trained to perform. This shouldn’t be an issue at your local TJ Maxx location, however, as they are usually quite welcoming to well-trained animals.
While trained service animals cannot be discriminated against, the same cannot be said for emotional support animals. Yes, TJ Maxx is a pet-loving establishment, but there are no rules in place saying that locations with restrictions must accept an emotional support animal. However, if you and your dog are turned away, you can reach out to the local government in hopes of changing things in your area.
Enjoying a Great Trip to TJ Maxx
If you feel it’s time to take your pooch along for a shopping adventure to TJ Maxx, there are a few tips that can help you make the trip a great one. Let’s take a look at those now so you and your dog can enjoy yourselves while socializing.
Get Your Dog Accustomed to Shopping
Before you spring a department or clothing store on your pooch, you should allow them to get used to shopping. A great way to do this is by visiting your local pet shop. These shops normally allow pets in without any issues. This can get your dog used to being around the merchandise, employees, other dogs, and the people they may meet.
Call Ahead
Instead of taking your dog to TJ Maxx and then being turned away due to that particular store’s policies or local guidelines, it’s best to call ahead. By making a quick call you can ensure the TJ Maxx location you plan on visiting will allow your dog inside and any extra store policies they may have for entry.
Take Your Leash
No, we aren’t talking about a long, retractable leash that your dog enjoys on long walks. Instead, when going shopping, use a shorter leash so you can keep constant control of your pet. A shorter leash will keep your dog from getting tangled up in displays or creating a mess by accident.
Prepare for Accidents
No matter how well-trained your dog is, accidents can happen. They may get frightened or excited. It’s also possible they could get an upset tummy. If you plan on going shopping with your pup, make sure you take a cleanup kit with you so you can take care of accidents quickly.
Go Potty Before You Enter
A great way to avoid using your emergency accident cleanup kit is to take your pooch for a potty break before you head inside the store. According to how far away your nearest TJ Maxx is, your pet may need to relieve themselves a couple of times before going inside.
Stay Upbeat
If you’re nervous, your pet is going to be nervous. To make shopping a lot of fun, don’t stress. If you’re worried about how people will react to your dog, if it will behave, or if it may have an accident, neither of you will have a good time. Instead, stay upbeat and make the best of your adventure.
Final Thoughts
With there being so many TJ Maxx stores around the country, you’d be hard-pressed not to have one within traveling distance of you. If you want to go out for a nice day of shopping but simply cannot stand the idea of leaving your four-legged bestie at home, TJ Maxx is a great shopping location to visit. While it may not be specifically written in their store policy that pets are allowed, you’ll find that most stores will eagerly welcome you and your pooch inside. Always remember, however, if the two of you want to be welcomed back, keep your dog on its leash and its best behavior.
See Also:
Featured Photo Credit: T.J. Maxx (Anthony92931, Wikimedia Commons CC SA 3.0 Unported)
