Petco launches in-store low-cost veterinary hospital

Image courtesy of Petco.

Petco has expanded its pet services to include in-store veterinary care and wellness services in addition to the on-site grooming, training and vaccination clinics it already offers, according to a company release. Its first hospital, operated by Thrive Affordable Vet Care, opened in Aldine, Texas, in early October. The hospital offers $10 exams, which the company says will make veterinary care accessible to more pet owners, and says it will specialize in thorough, routine and high-quality care.

The store in Aldine was built new and features Petco's newest store design, in addition to the space for the veterinary clinic. The company plans to open 12 additional hospitals in existing stores that will be completely remodeled, the release states. The other locations will be in Texas, California and Colorado.

"While pet health and wellness are increasingly important to pet parents, navigating veterinary services in particular can be confusing and overwhelming," says Petco CEO Brad Weston in the release. "Understanding what pets need at each stage of life; what constitutes routine care, urgent or specialty care; and when to seek veterinary expertise are common challenges pet parents face. That's why we believe it's so important for every pet parent to have a relationship with a veterinarian throughout the life of their pet."

By expanding the company's in-store veterinary services, Petco's veterinary professionals can help pet owners manage their pets' health and wellness needs in one convenient location, Weston continues. "Our Aldine location is the first of our new in-store hospital design, and we are excited about bringing more of these locations to the Houston market in the next few months," he says.

Petco stores aim to provide a one-stop shopping experience where pet owners can purchase pet food, toys or apparel, while also addressing training needs, grooming and veterinary care, the release states. In addition to the new hospitals operated by Thrive and other independent veterinarians, Petco stores offer on-site vaccination and wellness clinics operated by Vetco and telemedicine pet health advice through PetCoach, the release notes.

For a full list of hospital locations, click here.