Yes, that was an odd experience for you with that woman .However, I do not ever leave Suzi alone in a car , ever. If I am uncomfortable taking her inside a store , I just don't go in. i have taken her into the video store, Circle K with me, no issues. The Super walmart will let small carried in dogs in as long as they are not in the food area. I do believe there are a lot more shopping centers now that have seurity cameras everywhere in parking lots, however this still will not prevent a dumb ass from taking someone's animal right out of a car.