Content about Pets

WHAT IT MEANS AND WHY IT'S IMPORTANT — One of the most common reasons that retailers give for pet-medication programs is that pets are part of the family.

As analyst Debbie Wang of investment firm Morningstar told Drug Store News in April 2012, more empty nesters and young couples putting off having children are driving increases in pet ownership, and with that comes a need for pet healthcare.

Pet products have moved into the OTC aisles and even behind the pharmacy. Sales of pet supplies/OTC medicine are expected to reach $12.56 billion in 2012, according to the American Pet Products Association. 


One of the key drivers of the category, according to Packaged Facts, is the growing population of pets with specialized health needs, especially senior and overweight dogs and cats.


WHAT IT MEANS AND WHY IT'S IMPORTANT — The past two weeks have seen two new additions to the list of retailers selling prescription drugs for pets, showing that this space, while still small, is growing in importance and offers a good way for retailers to drive customer traffic.

NEW ORLEANS — A company that makes pet drugs has launched what it calls the first generic prescription heartworm preventive medication for sale at retail pharmacies around the country.

FidoPharm announced the launch of Pet Trust Plus (ivermectin and pyrantel), a generic version of Merial's Heartgard Plus. The drug is meant to prevent heartworms from developing and reaching a dog's arteries and heart.

NASHVILLE — Mars announced that its pet care business has partnered with Rescue Bank to to enable more efficient delivery of pet food donations to animal shelters and rescues.

Mars Petcare, including Mars Petcare US, The Nutro Co. and Royal Canin, have teamed up with Rescue Bank, which "helps provide a reliable means for distributing wholesome, nutritious pet food that is approaching its “best by” date, benefiting both the manufacturers and nonprofit groups caring for pets in need."

NEW YORK — Pet lovers want the best for their furry friends. Last year, Americans spent $55 billion on their pets, according to Packaged Facts, and the upward trend shows no signs of slowing.

One of the brightest spots in the pet category is natural and organic pet food. While Packaged Facts estimated that the market segment accounts for about 7% of pet food sales, the market research firm sees a huge upside to the segment.

SUPPLIER NEWS — Purina One has introduced a new line of pet food for dogs and cats that boasts meat as the No. 1 ingredient. Purina One Beyond is crafted without wheat or corn, added fillers or artificial preservatives. The line includes two adult dog recipes: chicken and whole oat meal, and lamb and whole barley. The line also features two adult cat recipes: salmon and whole brown rice, and chicken and whole oat meal. Purina One Beyond dog recipes are available in 3-lb., 15-lb. and 26-lb. packages. Purina One Beyond cat recipes are available in a 1-lb.

Americans still are spending on their pets. The American Pet Products Association projected that consumers spent $47.7 billion on their furry friends in 2010, an increase of 4.9% over 2009.


Sales of pet beds, leashes and inexpensive toys still were strong sellers. Treat-dispensing toys, such as Premier Pet Products’ Busy Buddy, are must-have items. When priced right, they generate strong impulse purchases.


WATSONVILLE, Calif. — Nordic Naturals has introduced Omega-3 Pet liquid in three convenient sizes.

Omega-3 Pet provides pets with a high-quality source of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, derived from 100% wild-caught, sustainable anchovies and sardines, according to the company.

The product is specially formulated and reviewed for dogs and cats, distinguishing it from other omega-3 fatty acid pet products on the market, Nordic Naturals stated.