Wilko have left customers divided after announcing dogs are allowed to enter all stores in the United Kingdom.
The household goods retail store released a statement on Monday announcing that pets are now welcome across all 248 of their stores.
The statement released on Facebook by the chain on Monday read: "A pet is more than just a pet, they’re family. That’s why we’ve decided to welcome pets in-store at 248 of our locations.
"We hope that shoppers will enjoy bringing their furry friends along with them.
"Please check for new signage at the entrance of your local store to see if they are participating."
One customer commented: "That’s OK if they are well behaved. I have a Guide Dog and find Yaps on straps are enough of a pain outside the shops so it’s going to be very interesting in a confined space down an aisle…and no, my dog doesn’t want to talk to your dog, he’s working! Guide Dogs can get very stressed if a little dog is yapping around their legs!"
Another said: "My daughter is terrified of dogs, we now won't be visiting Wilkos."
A third added: "What a brilliant idea! I really don't like being among loads of people so having a few dogs about will make me feel much more relaxed. I don't why people are so against dogs being in shops, when you think of the very "sick" humans walking about who are much more dangerous to us all."
Wilko tried to reassure concerned customers with replies to comments on the social media platform, including: "Many customers think of pets as family members, which is why we want to let them in store wherever we can.
"We’re only welcoming pets into stores that suit their needs and are asking they be kept from food aisles.
"Check entrance signage to see if your Wilko store is pet friendly!"
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