Walmart Expands Pet Offering As Adoption Rates Rise

Walmart is ramping up its pet services at a time when animal adoption rates have skyrocketed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The retailer now offers what it says is a “full line” of pet products and services for these four-legged friends, including insurance, dog walking and pet sitting.

PET ADOPTIONS INCREASE DURING CORONAVIRUS STAY ORDERS

The company has partnered with pet insurance provider Petplan to provide coverage for veterinary expenses, as well as with Rover for its walking and pet sitting services.

The offers can be found on Walmart Pet Care, which has a new landing page on its website. As part of Walmart Pet Care, owners will also be able to take advantage of Walmart PetRx, an in-store and online pharmacy service.

Melody Richard, vice president of merchandising for Walmart Pets, said the move comes as more people become pet owners throughout the pandemic.

Animal adoption centers across the country began to see an increase in animal placement and adoption rates from the peak of lockdown orders when people were forced into self-isolation – many by themselves – until restrictions are relaxed.

US Humane Society CEO Kitty Block previously told FOX Business that communities across the country are “growing like never before.”

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The increased demand underscores the need for such pet services. However, pet care was already a growing market long before the pandemic hit.

In 2019, $ 95.7 billion was spent on pets in the United States, according to the American Pet Products Association. This year, the association predicts that figure will reach $ 99 billion.

The company noted that by using these services, customers can save up to 10% on their policies and receive a Walmart gift of $ 20 when booking services through Rover.

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