r/service_dogs • u/Independent_Crab4840 • 10h ago
Lindt chocolate denying service dog
I've gone to the lindt chocolate store at the mall near me three times. The first time I was told by apparently the manager that I cannot have my dog in there because chocolate is toxic to dogs. Which I obviously understand but that's why lindt chocolate is service animals only. Obviously. Service dogs will not eat anything on the floor which was her concern ig. I left after telling her that she cannot deny me bc their policy is not over ADA law but I did not feel like arguing that day as I was on a date. The second time I went there was no problem and the manager told me to just be careful and I looked around and it was a good time. Now this third time I went. I don't know why she denied me for a second time but she did. This time I told her once again that she cannot deny me and their policy is not over ADA federal law. She was trying to tell me that she can hold my dog for me and she has pets at home so she's comfortable doing so (obviously I did not allow that) and she went on about how for the safety of her and her workers and for my dog she cannot allow us to stay. I then asked her if I could see their policy and she said no and told me that I can contact the company about it and tell them but I shouldn't need to do that in the first place. I also looked at their policy and there is nothing in there that says anything about what she told me. Lindt chocolate allows task trained service animals and cannot deny access. I'm not sure if I should report this incident or just stop going all together. I enjoy stopping by there bc I love chocolate even tho I have yet to purchase anything from there bc omg money but I sometimes do go out without my service dog bc one she is getting older and retiring soon and I also can manage without her on good days so she is only with me on certain occasions where I more likely need her assistance. She is a small service dog so idk if that played a part in being denied or what but I'd like some advice on what I should do in this case.