Walmart has announced key expansions to its core pet care offerings, widening access to affordable in-person and virtual veterinary care, prescription delivery, grooming services and food and supplies.
The pet category continues to be one of the most dynamic in retail, with a projected annual spending growth of 7 percent by 2030 and household expenses expected to reach $1,445 per pet by 2026. Veterinary services are the second largest pet spending category after consumables and are expected to see continued growth as pet owners prioritize their pets’ well-being.
While customers are spending more on their pets, inflation continues to create unexpected financial burdens that can make caring for them a challenge. Walmart has expanded its Walmart Pet Services centers, planned to open over the next month in the following cities:
- Cumming, Georgia;
- Alpharetta, Georgia;
- Glendale, Arizona;
- Chandler, Arizona; and
- Mesa, Arizona.
All locations build on the success of the pilot site in Dallas, Georgia. Walmart plans to continue expanding its pet services centers as it aims to introduce the model to more communities.
[RELATED: Walmart’s First Pet Services Center Debuts In Dallas, GA]
“Walmart understands that pets are family, and we’re proud to be a trusted destination for our pet parents,” said Kaitlyn Shadiow, VP of merchandising for pets, Walmart U.S.
“Whether shopping in-stores or online, Walmart offers a differentiated omnichannel experience and a wide assortment of offerings – from products and prescriptions to services – available at our ‘Every Day Low Prices’ to make pet care affordable and convenient. Our Dallas, Georgia, customers have shown us how much they value the affordable, convenient pet care solutions our first Walmart Pet Services center brought them. We’re excited to bring Walmart Pet Service centers to more markets and help meet our customers’ pet needs in one convenient destination.”
Walmart Pet Services centers will continue to offer routine veterinary care (vaccines, wellness exams and minor medical services), and grooming (baths, nail trims, teeth cleaning, ear cleaning and basic hair trims), with services provided by veterinary and grooming professionals in collaboration with PetIQ.
Beginning Oct. 18, Walmart will launch its Walmart+ benefit with Pawp, which was announced earlier this year. This new online pet care service will give Walmart+ members free, 24/7 access to Pawp’s team of veterinary professionals with unlimited $0 visits via text or video. This benefit helps pet owners address health concerns from anywhere.
Walmart also recently expanded its pet pharmacy services, providing customers across the country with low-cost delivery for prescriptions. Customers can also continue to fill pet prescriptions in stores.
Walmart has launched several new pet brands in the past year, with the offerings including Goodlands Pet Food, Zuke’s Dog treats, Rocco and Roxie and Vets Best Flea and Tick.
