Amy, I love the photos of Nebo, it looks like he had a fun day! Congrats to your little winner!

Popcornbird, I can understand what you are going through since one of my sons is afraid of big dogs and he gets uncomfortable when we shop at PetSmart or Petco too. I went to the new Petco in our area yesterday and didn't see a single dog while I was there! We spent most of our time looking at the birds, fish and small animals and didn't go in the dog sections or buy anything at the checkout. You can try shopping with a friend or family member and when in the checkout line near a dog keep the cart or your friend between you and the dog. I have found that most of the dogs are well behaved on leash and its just a matter of keeping a safe distance for my son to be comfortable near them. I am the total opposite where I will go out of my way to be near the dogs because I just have to pet them.(after I ask their owners of course)