City of Warner Robins encouraging more businesses to become pet-friendly

Each summer, the city encourages more businesses to welcome customers' four-legged friends as the heat increases health concerns.

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Satterfield & Dempsey Jewelers is one of more than 40 pet-friendly businesses in Warner Robins. Owner Sam Satterfield admits he was nervous about putting up the decal on his store window three years ago but says the change hasn’t disrupted business.

“We haven’t had any issues whatsoever,” Satterfield said. “Matter of fact, a couple of my employees bring in their pets every once in a while, and they spend the day with us.” 

Mayor LaRhonda Patrick says demand from residents led to Warner Robins launching its pet-friendly initiative in 2022. Each summer, the city encourages more businesses to welcome customers’ four-legged friends.

“So, to help remind people, hey, it’s hot outside, plan your trips accordingly by looking at the pet-friendly decal,” Patrick said. “And then you’ll know that your furry friend can go with you into the store. Or if they can’t go with you, you’ll know to leave them at home in the cool.”

Patrick, who is now the owner of two bulldogs, says stores becoming pet-friendly not only helps keep animals safe from extreme heat, but has also been shown to invite more customers.

“I’m already hearing individuals say, you know, I used to go to this store, but now I go here for that because my pets can come in,” Patrick said. 

Satterfield says he’s allowed customers to bring pets inside, which he says becomes even more important during the summer months.

“You don’t ever want to leave your pet in the car, even with it running with the air conditioner on,” Satterfield said. “If your car cuts off or whatever, and you don’t know it, even if it’s only five minutes, it could be 110 degrees really quick.” 

Patrick says customers can now check the pet-friendly status of businesses in Warner Robins online. Warner Robins businesses interested in gaining pet-friendly status can contact the Community and Economic Development Department at 478-293-1013.