PetSmart launches new veterinary service model inside its stores

PetSmart is leveraging its size and scale to help veterinarians open their own practice.

The pet supplies and services giant is launching PetSmart Veterinary Service (PVS), an independent business ownership model designed to give veterinarians a complete solution for opening their own franchised practice inside PetSmart stores.  

Individually owned veterinary medical practices have been shrinking at a record pace across the country, according to PetSmart, and as the industry consolidates, many veterinarians have been out-priced and out-positioned in the market. With PetSmart’s network of more than 1,660 stores, PVS has the potential to greatly increase access to veterinary care across the United States.

“PVS makes it possible for veterinarians to go independent and own their business, all at a fraction of the cost of starting a new practice on their own,” PetSmart said. “Through PVS, veterinarians receive the support of an experienced team of dedicated industry experts as well as a location that can benefit from the built-in foot traffic of the PetSmart store.”

Each location will be outfitted with the most efficient, cutting-edge equipment for the veterinarian, the company added. PVS will also provide each practice owner with built-in resources for marketing, information technology, construction, training, reporting and ongoing consultation.

“PetSmart already has one of the largest veterinary offerings with more than 700 partnering veterinary hospitals inside our stores providing convenient access to quality pet care,” said J.K. Symancyk, president and CEO of PetSmart. “With the PVS independent ownership model, we can bring our size, capabilities and expertise as the leading pet retailer to support veterinarians seeking the independence and rewards of owning a practice. These efforts will provide critical veterinary care to the rising number of pets and pet parents and is an important part of our growth strategy to give our customers all the products, services, solutions and care they need within one location.”

The new program comes as veterinary practices are busier than ever following the boom in pet adoptions that occurred during the past several years.

To ensure the highest standard of care, every PVS hospital will be required to maintain American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accreditation. AAHA is the sole organization that accredits veterinary practices in the U.S. Currently, only 15% of pet hospitals are AAHA accredited.