Having written about return policies for the past few years, the one thing I’ve learned is that no two policies are created equal. And right on cue the PetSmart return policy is no different and actually has a few facets to it that are real head scratchers. Let’s break it all down so your next PetSmart return is a little bit easier.

How Many Return Days Does PetSmart Allow?

60 Days.

PetSmart allow you to return items for up to 60 days after the date of purchase.

Can I Return an Animal that Dies After Purchase?

First of all, if an animal you bought within the last 14 days looks sick, call PetSmart IMMEDIATELY and let them know, you stand a good chance of them taking it back.

But even if the animal is NOT sick, you can return it within 14 days of purchase, this includes if the animal dies while in your care.

What About Returning Dead Fish?

Yes, you have 14 days to return a dead fish.

While kinda gross, you’ll need to bring back the dead fish as proof.

Also, some PetSmart locations will ask you to bring back a water sample and could deny your return if your water tests “unacceptable for fish”.

PRO TIP

There’s no official PetSmart policy (that I can find) on needing to bring-in a water sample. So if your local PetSmart requires it, you might want to buy your fish from a different store in your town.

Can I Return Opened Pet Food?

Let’s say you bought a 50 pound bag of dog food only to have Fido turn his nose up to it.

Surprisingly, PetSmart WILL let you exchange the pet food for a different brand.

If you opened the bag you have 14 days to return it with your receipt. (Thanks to employee Jess for this information)

If the food is unopened you can exchange it (with your receipt) within 60 days of purchase.

Note: I called my local PetSmart and spoke to the manager to verify this information.

See Also: These 17 Stores That Let You Return Used Items for a Full Refund

Can I Return Online Purchases In-Store?

Yes.

If you live near a PetSmart store, this is the BEST way to make a return, otherwise you’ll be on the hook for the return shipping charges.

Any Exceptions to the 60 Return Days?

Yes, there are several to be aware of:

– Prescription Pet Medications: PetSmart does NOT allow returns or exchanges for these.

– Electronic Items: Must have receipt to make a return if price is over $10. Think training collars, electric fencing and specialized training items.

– Grooming Equipment: Must have receipt if the value is over $10.

– Pumps and Filters: Also need valid receipt if the value is over $10.

– Non-Prescription Medications/Vitamins: Must have receipt if price is above $10.

See Also: The Chewy Return Policy: It’s Like REALLY Good

Can I Make a Return When I Paid With a Check?

Yes, you can make a return if you originally paid with a check.

Just be aware that you’ll get a merchandise return card, or cash, but not until a 10-day waiting period from the date of original sale has passed.

What If I Lost My PetSmart Receipt?

Not all hope is lost if you lose your receipt.

Specifically, if you’re a member of their Pet Rewards program they can look up your purchase history using your phone number.

Otherwise you can bring back the product with your valid photo I.D. and they’ll give you lowest sale price in the form of a “merchandise return card” which can be used for a future purchase.

See Also: All the Stores That Allow You to Return Items Without a Receipt

Can I Return Items Bought With PayPal?

Yes, you can return items bought via PayPal.

But your refund will not go back to your PayPal account, instead you’re stuck with merchandise credit.

Alternatively, debit card purchases will be refunded as cash.

Head scratcher #2: So you can get a cash refund with debit card purchases but not PayPal…what the heck is the difference?

What Happens To My “Treat Points” When I Make a Return?

If you make a return in which “Treat Points” were used you will NOT get those points back when you return the item.

PetSmart will also “deduct the points earned from the original transaction”.

Can I Return Live Animals?

Yes.

If you’ve ever walked around a PetSmart store you know they sell critters like snakes, iguanas, mice, rats, hamsters, and other cool creatures.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to return one of these animals you have 14 days from date of purchase to do so.

Along with the animal, you’ll need to bring back your original receipt and any paperwork they gave you.

Also, it’s worth noting that you must return the animal to the store where you originally purchased it.

What About Returning Clearance Items?

Yes, you can return clearance items within 60 days of purchase.

See Also: The Petco Return Policy: Can You Return Pet Food and Dead Animals?

How Do I Start an Online Return?

First, you’ll need to locate your packing slip and fill out the return section at the bottom.

Next, you’ll need to call PetSmart at 1-888-839-9638 and get yourself a return authorization number (RMA).

At this point they will email you a shipping label so you can pack up the item and ship it back via FedEx.

Be sure to write the RMA number on the outside of the box to avoid any confusion.

It could take up to 30 days for your return to be processed which seems REALLY long compared to other retailers. (head-scratcher #3)

Also, you’re on the hook for the return shipping charges unless the reason for the return is the fault of PetSmart.

For this reason, it’s WAY better to make your return in-store and avoid these charges altogether.

What To Do If My Online Order Shows Up Damaged?

PetSmart asks you to call them at 1-888-839-9638 within 30 days and they’ll take care of the issue.

Make sure you have your order number handy as well as the item number which is on your invoice slip.

Ask the Reader: What’s been your experience with the PetSmart return policy? Good, bad , or indifferent…let me know in the comments.

By Kyle James

Kyle James( Owner/Founder )

I started Rather-Be-Shopping.com in 2000 and have become a consumer expert and advocate writing about out-of-the-box ways to save at stores like Amazon, Walmart, Target and Costco to name a few. I’ve been featured on FOX News, Good Morning America, and the NY Times talking about my savings tips. (Learn more)