Walmart launching online pet pharmacy, opening in-store vet clinics

About 100 Walmart stores will have veterinary clinincs in 12 months.

About 100 Walmart stores will have veterinary clinincs in 12 months.

Walmart will deliver a pet’s prescription straight to the door, and soon it will add 100 in-store veterinary clinics.

Millennial dog owners spend up to $1,285 a year on their pets, with a majority going toward veterinary care, vaccines, food and supplies, according to a statement from Walmart. New plans to add veterinary clinics in stores, offer a wider variety of pet foods and launch an online pet pharmacy are expected to lower those costs, said Kieran Shanahan, senior vice president of retail food, consumables and health & wellness for Walmart’s e-commerce operations.

»RELATED: Kroger sells off popular ice cream and tea brand

Beginning this week, pet owners can now purchase prescription pet medications at WalmartPetRx.com to be delivered to the home. The prescriptions for dogs, cats, horses and livestock from more than 300 brands will treat flea and tick, heart worm, allergy, arthritis and other pet conditions.

“By working directly with veterinarians to receive and fill prescriptions, we’re able to save busy pet parents time, which could mean another walk around the block for Cooper. And with Walmart’s low prices and free two-day shipping on orders over $35, we’re able to save them money, too. Make that another walk around the block for Cooper and a new collar for Whiskers,” Shanahan said.

 

Walmart will also stock its more than 4,500 brick-and-mortar pharmacies with the top 30 most requested pet meds.

Shoppers at select Walmart stores will also be able to get vet care within the next 12 months when Walmart plans to reach 100 veterinary clinics, offering services that could save as much as 40 to 60 percent on vaccines and minor illness packages and exams, according to the statement.

»RELATED: Kraft will pay for your babysitter on Mother’s Day

The expansion of veterinary clinics will begin with nine in the Dallas-Fort Worth area in late May and June, followed by a nationwide expansion.

Walmart is also pushing into more organic and grain-free food options, along with pet vitamins and supplements. The retail giant has added 100 new pet brands over the last year and developed premium private label brands.

FIVE FAST READS

• How a Dayton innovation company is growing

Feeling sad? Mad? Burger King has an unhappy meal for you

• Local Burger King restaurant closing at end of month

• Here's how you can win free White Castle for a year

About the Author