Does PetSmart Drug Test?

Drug Testing by Position

Drug Test Type and Process

When PetSmart does administer a drug test, it is a standard 5-panel urine screen conducted at a third-party clinic such as Quest Diagnostics or LabCorp. The panel screens for marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. If a test is required, you will typically receive a conditional job offer first and then be asked to complete the screen within roughly 48 hours at a designated lab. For most store-level applicants, however, the hiring process centers on one or two interviews and a background check with no drug screening at all. Testing is more common for distribution center roles that involve forklifts and heavy equipment, and it may be requested for management candidates. Because the policy is applied unevenly across stores and states, the surest way to know is to ask the hiring manager directly before your start date.

Marijuana Policy

PetSmart maintains a drug-free workplace policy and, when it does test, follows federal standards — a positive THC result can disqualify a candidate even in states where recreational or medical marijuana is legal. In practice, though, most retail and salon applicants are never screened for marijuana during hiring, so off-duty cannabis use is rarely a barrier for store-level jobs. Where testing does occur (some distribution centers, certain management or safety-sensitive roles, or when a background check raises concerns), THC is part of the standard 5-panel screen. PetSmart also reserves the right to test for marijuana after a workplace accident or on reasonable suspicion of impairment on the clock. If you have a role that may be tested and use cannabis, allow time for THC to clear your system before your screening date.

Tips for Applicants

Apply online at careers.petsmart.com and be ready for a phone screen followed by an in-person or virtual interview focused on your comfort around animals, customer service, and reliability. Because most store roles are not drug tested, a past marijuana-related issue is usually not a dealbreaker for retail positions. PetSmart is generally considered second-chance friendly and does not automatically bar applicants with criminal records — hiring decisions weigh the offense, how long ago it occurred, and its relevance to the job. If you are applying to a distribution center or a management role where testing is more likely, ask the recruiter whether a screen is required and plan accordingly. Highlight dependability, a genuine love of animals, and physical stamina for lifting bags of food and standing for long shifts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does PetSmart drug test for weed?

For most store and salon jobs, no — PetSmart generally does not screen retail applicants for marijuana during hiring. When a test is required (some distribution center or management roles, or if a background check raises flags), THC is part of the standard 5-panel screen and a positive result can disqualify you under federal standards.

Does PetSmart drug test at hiring?

Usually not for store positions. PetSmart stopped requiring blanket pre-employment drug tests for retail and salon roles around 2018-2019. Some locations and roles still test, so ask your hiring manager what to expect at your specific store.

What kind of drug test does PetSmart use?

When PetSmart tests, it is a standard 5-panel urine screen at a third-party lab such as Quest or LabCorp, checking for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. It is typically completed within about 48 hours of a conditional offer.

Does PetSmart drug test groomers?

Most groomers and salon staff report no pre-employment drug test. As with other store roles, PetSmart may test after a workplace accident or on reasonable suspicion of impairment, but routine hiring screens are uncommon.

Does PetSmart do random drug tests?

Random testing is not standard for store employees. PetSmart reserves the right to test after an on-the-job accident or when there is reasonable suspicion of impairment. Safety-sensitive distribution roles may have additional requirements.

Does PetSmart hire people with felonies?

PetSmart does not automatically disqualify applicants with criminal records. It runs a background check and weighs the offense, how long ago it happened, and its relevance to the job. Retail roles are generally considered second-chance friendly.