Walmart launches online pet pharmacy, plans to add veterinary clinics

Walmart wants to make pet ownership more affordable.

According to a company news release Tuesday, the retailer is launching its first online pet pharmacy for prescription medications, expanding in-store clinics, and adding "a more wholesome assortment" of pet foods, including organic and grain-free options.

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For now, Walmart plans to add nine new in-store clinics in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. “With 68% of US households owning a pet and 90% of Americans living within 10 miles of a Walmart store,” the retailer plans to reach 100 vet clinics over 12 months.

Walmart states its clinics can save customers as much as 40-60% on vaccines and minor illness packages and exams.

And the company's new online pet pharmacy—WalmartPetRx.com—gives pet owners the chance to have low-cost prescriptions delivered to their doorstep.

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“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,” according to the company release. The online pharmacy also offers free two-day shipping for orders over $35.

Later this month, customers will be able to get select pet prescriptions within the day.

Read more about Walmart's "paw-sitive" plans at news.walmart.com.