Petsmart Return Policy

If you’ve ever bought something for your pet that just didn’t work out, you know how important a good return policy is. Understanding the PetSmart return policy can save you time, money, and hassle, ensuring you and your pet are always happy with your purchases. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits and required receipts to special rules for items like pet food and prescriptions.

The core PetSmart return policy is designed to be customer-friendly. In most cases, you can return items within 60 days of purchase with your receipt for a full refund to your original payment method. This generous window gives you ample time to try out products and see if they are a good fit for your dog, cat, fish, or any other pet.

What You Need for a Smooth Return

To make your return process quick and easy, be sure to have the right items with you. Being prepared prevents delays at the customer service counter.

The Original Receipt: This is the most important item. It provides proof of purchase, price, and the date you bought the item.
The Original Payment Method: If you want a refund back to your credit card or debit card, you should bring it with you. Store credit or an exchange may be options if you don’t have it.
All Original Packaging and Parts: The item should be in its original packaging and include all accessories, manuals, and tags. This is especially important for electronics like fish tank filters or pet cameras.
The Item in Like-New Condition: The product should be unused, or if it was used, it must be in resellable condition. For obvious health and safety reasons, this is strictly enforced for certain items.

Returns Without a Receipt

Lost your receipt? Don’t worry, you might still have options. PetSmart can often look up your purchase if you used a credit card, debit card, or provided your phone number for their Treats program at the time of sale.

With a Look-Up: If the purchase is found in their system, you can typically process the return as normal.
Without Any Proof of Purchase: If the purchase cannot be verified, you may be offered the current selling price as a merchandise credit. This amount could be lower than what you originally paid if the item is on sale.

Special Return Rules for Specific Items

Not all items follow the standard 60-day rule. For health, safety, and sanitary reasons, some products have different return windows or conditions.

Opened Pet Food and Treats

PetSmart stands behind the quality of their nutrition products. If your pet doesn’t like a new food or it doesn’t agree with them, you can return it.

You can return opened bags of pet food and treats within 60 days with your receipt.
The product must have a significant portion remaining (usually more than half).
You will recieve a refund to your original payment method or an exchange.

Prescriptions and Pharmacy Items

For the safety of all pets, returns on prescription medications, including flea and tick treatments and heartworm preventatives, are heavily restricted.

These items are generally final sale and cannot be returned once they leave the store, unless there is a manufacturer defect or error by the pharmacy.
Always double-check the medication and dosage with your vet before purchasing.
If there is a verified problem, contact the store’s pharmacy directly for assistance.

Live Animals and Aquatic Plants

PetSmart has a specific guarantee for the health of live animals and plants, which is separate from the standard merchandise return policy.

Small Animals, Reptiles, Birds, & Fish: PetSmart offers a 14-day guarantee from the date of purchase. You will need a vet diagnosis from a PetSmart-associated vet or an approved aquatic specialist for fish.
Aquatic Plants: These are typically covered under a 14-day guarantee as well if they fail to thrive.
You must bring the original receipt and the deceased animal or plant for inspection. The policy is in place to ensure pets are going to healthy, prepared homes.

Electronics and Special Orders

Items like pet cameras, automatic feeders, and certain aquarium lights are considered electronics.

These also fall under the 60-day return policy but must include all original packaging, cords, and manuals.
Special order items may have unique return conditions, so its best to ask at the time of ordering.

How to Return an Online Purchase

Returning something you bought on petsmart.com is also straightforward. You have two main options.

Option 1: Return by Mail

Log into your PetSmart account online and go to your order history.
Select the item(s) you wish to return and follow the prompts to generate a return authorization and prepaid shipping label.
Pack the item securely in its original box, if possible, and attach the label.
Drop the package at a designated carrier location (like UPS).
Refunds are processed once the return is received at the warehouse, which can take 7-10 business days after they get it.

Option 2: Return In-Store

This is often the fastest method. You can bring your online purchase to any PetSmart retail location.

Bring the item, all original packaging, and your packing slip or email order confirmation (this acts as your receipt).
Go to the customer service desk. They will process the return there.
Your refund will be issued immediately if you have the confirmation, typically back to your original payment method.

Understanding Refund Methods and Timing

How you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.

Credit/Debit Card: Refunds are issued back to the original card. It may take 3-7 business days for the refund to post to your account, depending on your bank.
Cash or Check: You will likely recieve a cash refund for in-store returns.
PetSmart Gift Card or Merchandise Credit: The refund is issued immediately as store credit.
Online Paypal Purchases: Refunds are sent back to your PayPal account.
Buy Now, Pay Later (e.g., Affirm): Contact the financing service directly, as the refund will be applied to your loan balance.

The PetSmart Treats Program Advantage

Being a member of the free PetSmart Treats loyalty program makes returns even easier. Your phone number links to your purchase history, virtually eliminating the need for a paper receipt for in-store returns. It also gives you access to members-only return extensions or special offers sometimes.

What Cannot Be Returned to PetSmart

To protect all customers and pets, a few items are strictly non-returnable. Knowing these ahead of time prevents frustration.

Opened or used prescription medications (unless defective).
Used or unsanitary items, like opened grooming brushes or clearly used bedding.
Items purchased from third-party sellers on the PetSmart marketplace (you must contact that seller directly).
Rented items, like carpet cleaners from the PetSmart PetsHotel.
Items damaged due to misuse or neglect by the customer.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience

A little preparation goes a long way. Follow these tips to ensure your return is processed without a hitch.

Keep Your Receipts: File them in an envelope or take a photo with your phone immediately after purchase.
Act Within 60 Days: Mark your calendar if you’re trying a new product. Don’t let the window close.
Keep Packaging: For bigger-ticket items, keep the box and all inserts until you’re sure you’re keeping the product.
Bring Your ID: For returns without a receipt, a valid ID is often required for issuing merchandise credit to prevent fraud.
Be Polite: Customer service associates are more likely to help you find a solution if you approach them kindly.

PetSmart’s Exchange Policy

If you need a different size, color, or simply a different product, exchanges are simple. You can do an even exchange for an item of the same price, or pay the difference if you choose a more expensive item. Exchanges follow the same condition and time frame guidelines as returns. This is a great option if you found a toy your dog loves but needs a larger size.

Returning Gifts Purchased at PetSmart

Returning a gift is a common situation. If you received a gift from PetSmart, you have two good options.

With a Gift Receipt: This is the easiest way. You will receive a merchandise credit or gift card for the item’s purchase price, allowing you to choose something else you or your pet will love.
Without Any Receipt: You can still return the gift, but you will likely be offered the current selling price as merchandise credit, which may be lower than the original gifter paid.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long is the PetSmart return period?

For most general merchandise, the return period is 60 days from the original purchase date with a receipt.

Can I return dog food to PetSmart if my dog doesn’t like it?

Yes, you can return opened dog food (and cat food) within 60 days with your receipt, as long as a significant portion remains. This is a standout part of there policy.

What is PetSmart’s return policy on fish?

Live fish are covered under a 14-day health guarantee. You need to bring the fish and your receipt to the store, and a PetSmart aquatic specialist will assist you. A vet diagnosis may be required in some cases.

Can I make a PetSmart return without the original box?

For most items, yes, but it’s always best to have it. For electronics or fragile items, the original packaging is often required for a full refund.

Does PetSmart accept returns on clearance items?

Yes, clearance items are typically returnable within the standard 60-day window with a receipt, unless otherwise marked as final sale at the time of purchase.

How do I return something I bought online from PetSmart?

You can use the online portal to get a prepaid return label to ship it back, or you can bring the item and your packing slip to any PetSmart store for an in-person return.

What is the policy for returning a pet bed?

Pet beds can be returned within 60 days with a receipt, provided they are in like-new, clean, and resellable condition. For health reasons, used or soiled bedding cannot be accepted.

Can I return a used grooming tool?

Generally, no. For sanitary reasons, used personal care items like brushes, nail clippers, or shampoo bottles cannot be returned once opened or used.

Knowing the ins and outs of the PetSmart return policy gives you confidence when shopping for your pet. By keeping your receipts, understanding the 60-day window, and noting the exceptions for live animals and prescriptions, you can ensure every purchase is risk-free. Always check with your local store if you have a specific question, as local management may have discretion in unique situations. With this knowledge, you can focus on finding the perfect products for your furry, scaly, or feathery family member.