Woman Enjoys Trip to Petco—Until Her Dog Is Caught Committing a Crime

What was supposed to be a fun, adventure-filled day at Petco ended in total embarrassment for an owner after her dog was caught stealing.

Now, it’s not what you think. The dog treats were sitting in a prime location at the bottom of the shelf, giving Delese Robinson’s dog complete access to whatever his heart desired. Robinson told Newsweek she is an ingredients reader and likes to compare costs. She believes her dog stuck his snoot on the bottom shelves while she was looking at products.

“He is so smart and obviously has picked up, after 7 years, how to silently eat things when I’m distracted,” she said.

She didn’t even realize he was sneaking treats from right under her until someone informed her of the crime he was committing. Robinson was in utter disbelief her dog would do such a thing, especially since he’s a “lazy bum” when at home. She immediately took to TikTok, sharing her experience and humiliation in an April 6 TikTok.

“I was so embarrassed and uncomfortable with the thought of it appearing as if I was just letting him be a treat thief,” she said.

But it didn’t just stop with the treat-stealing crime. She admitted her dog is 7 years old when someone asked if he was a puppy. Then, a clerk gave Robinson a training card as it seemed like he was “pulling her” in the store. This was a whole side of him Robinson had never seen before, which left egg on her face.

“I bring him into Petco sporadically throughout the year for grooming…However, this was our first time since moving to Oklahoma last year, that I brought him along while I casually shopped,” she said. “He is always mildly excited for grooming, but his excitement for shopping was unprecedented.”

Petco emailed Newsweek a statement regarding the video: “We know trips to Petco serve as special bonding moments for pet families, and our doors are always open to all leashed pets. While we recommend people monitor their pets as they shop, our team carefully evaluates product placement in all locations to ensure pets can enjoy a safe, stimulating, and fun experience that promotes their development and overall wellness.”

How Viewers Reacted

Robinson’s hilarious retelling of the story quickly went viral on TikTok with over 5 million views and 1.2 million likes. A majority of users believe that Robinson’s dog did no wrong.

“But why are there treats on the BOTTOM shelf in a dog store,” asked one viewer.

Another added: “I’m his lawyer: If they’re not free samples don’t have them on the bottom shelves.” However, Robinson responded and said she would not stand for that behavior. Her dog, unfortunately, has to do the time.”

A third chimed in: “They always wanna act different in public!”

“All the comments are SO funny and sweet. It made me relieved that others relate so heavily with their dogs acting out at Petco,” Robinson said.

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