IMAGE GAL! Shopping With Your Pet — A Fashion Faux Pas?

By DIVAGALS | July 16, 2013 | Entertainment, Relationships

There’s nothing like spending the day finding the perfect item. That’s exactly what 30 Rock alum Katrina Bowden did as she shopped for the new Victoria’s Secret PINK date bra at the PINK store in Soho with her puppy Puffin on July 10. But the DivaGals were curious… is it right have your pet pooch tag along when picking out unmentionables?

We turned to our resident image and etiquette expert Samantha von Sperling for the answer.

“I am slightly torn on this one,” she confessed. “I suppose if your dog is well behaved and can stay in its hand bag without making a fuss it’s OK. And certainly, clearance is given to all service animals.”

Samantha explained that French customs may be behind the phenom to take your furry friend on a retail excursion.

“In France dogs are allowed in restaurants, so I can understand that it would be logical to want to have lunch and then shop. But I have to say that it is important to have respect for the clothes in the boutique, and the people in there. That means you dog should be well behaved, not barking at other customers and not chewing, shedding or peeing on the clothes or carpets.”

Samantha adds that every situation should be gauged. “Call the store in advance to make sure it’s OK. I believe in a more pet-friendly world, but we also still need be responsible pet parents and be mindful of our environment and the other people in it.”

It looks like Puffin was on his best behavior. Well done, Katrina!

Credit: Michael Loccisano / Wireimage