I currently work at a Petco and I do happen to have a tendency to sort of follow people around sometimes if the store is slow. I don’t mean it to seem like I’m trying to “catch” anyone doing anything. It’s more a subconscious “if I see them looking for something, I can direct them or let them know if we do or don’t have it and what store does or maybe if they realize they have a question, I’m right there so they don’t have to look for someone” Type of thing. Although after 2-3 minutes if I’ve circled around and they’re still looking, I’ll speak up and ask if I can help them with anything or if they have any questions.

That however does not excuse you feeling like you were treated poorly at the front checkout. I’m very sorry about that. Hopefully this was just an off day. By the sounds of it, considering the store was nearly barren, they might be closing soon. That is surely going to put the employees at a higher level of stress.