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In addition to purchasing bags of dog and cat food, pet owners can now turn to Walmart to purchase insurance and find a sitter for their beloved pets.
Starting Thursday, the retailer announced it will sell pet insurance from Petplan and connect customers to dog walking and more through Rover. It is launching Walmart Pet Care, a new landing page on its website as a central hub where customers can find its full line of pet products and services.
Melody Richard, vice president of Walmart Pets, refused to share the terms of the agreements with Petplan and Rover. She said Walmart customers would enjoy unique discounts and perks. Customers can save up to 10% on insurance policies through the big box retailer and will receive gift cards for Walmart if they book pet sitting or dog walking through Rover.
“We strive to provide our customers and the beloved pets in their lives with reliable, convenient and affordable programs in one destination,” she said. “And we will continue to focus on that.”
Walmart is adding to its pet offerings at a time when more Americans are adopting new dogs, cats and other creatures. The pandemic pet boom has also turned chew toys, seasonal costumes, and pet supplies into a popular gift category this holiday season.
Even before the pandemic, pet care was a growing market. According to a study by Jefferies, the U.S. pet care industry is expected to grow from a market of $ 53 billion to around $ 64 billion over the next four years.
This has increased competition between companies that want a bigger slice of the pie, including big box stores like PetSmart and Petco, big box stores like Walmart and Target, and e-commerce players like Chewy.
At the end of October, Chewy launched a telehealth offering that allows customers who subscribe to its auto-delivery service to see a veterinarian about common concerns. Walmart and Chewy also have the potential to gain market share as some specialty pet retailers struggle. Pet Valu announced plans to close its 358 stores in the United States this month
Walmart estimates that 90 million pet owners shop at its stores and website. Last year, he launched an online pet pharmacy, WalmartPetRX, which sells prescriptions and hundreds of brands for dogs, cats, horses and cattle.
By offering multiple services, the retailer hopes pet owners will spend more in its stores. For example, customers who get pet insurance from Walmart can later get pet medications refilled at its pharmacy.
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