Petco is one of the largest privately owned pet chains in America. They’ve found success by building a loyal following with their brand.
Customers can find supplies for dogs, cats, fish, birds, and even farm animals. You can also find great discounts, and the company strives to excel in customer satisfaction and animals’ well-being.
But is this pet store worth a visit, and how can you ensure you get the best deals? We’ve done the leg work and want to share the best ways to save at Petco.
Let’s check it out!
What is Petco?
Petco is an American pet store chain with over 1,500 stores nationwide. The brand started in 1965 as a small mail-order business by Walter Evans. The first retail store opened in 1976, with the company expanding to big box outlets by the early 1990s. Their services now include grooming, veterinary visits, and adoption. Some stores even offer obedience training if you need extra help in that department.
Petco Love, their nonprofit foundation, was launched in 1999 to promote the health and well-being of companion animals. One of the foundation’s long-term goals is to end all unnecessary euthanasia. Petco Love is definitely making strides by offering services like foster care, free vaccines, and animal rescue. Donations go to animal cancer research and other medical innovations.
Does Petco Allow Pets Inside?
Yes! They’re welcome if your pet is domesticated, vaccinated, and on a leash. Dog owners love bringing their furry friends along. However, some states prohibit pets in any retail store. So be sure to check your local store’s website for details.
That said, service dogs are always welcome regardless of your government policies.
Petco’s inclusive pet policy was tested in March 2019 when rancher Vincent Browning brought his male cow to his local store. And Oliver, Browning’s steer, isn’t your average-sized bovine. He’s over 1000 pounds with massive horns! But the store welcomed Oliver in with open arms.
The visit was captured on video and is oh-so-cute.
Pro Tip: Before you get a pet, make sure you know these Biggest Downsides of Being a Doggy Parent.
Seven Tips for a Better Petco Shopping Experience
Most shoppers don’t want to waste time finding coupons and skimming emailsPetco’sals. But Petco’s thoughtful promotions make it worth the effort. Here are seven ways you can save.
#1 Join the Petco Pals Rewards Program
The Petco Pals rewards program is a must for any frequent Petco shopper. You get one point per dollar you spend. Your points stack up and turn into discounts. Your account or app will keep you posted on deals and benefits. Members also gain special nutrition perks and grooming perks. Buy seven grooms and get one free, for example.
Be sure to keep track of your spending. Petco resets all points to zero if the account is inactive for 90 days!
#2 Check the Website for Monthly Offers
Petco posts new coupons and promotions each month on its website. Some are available online, while others are in-store only. Be sure to check the top of their site for the latest deals.
You might find deals on certain food brands or other essentials you’re planning on buying anyway. Other times they’ll be for special purchases. We’ve even seen a monthly offer for large glass fish and lizard tanks at 50% off!
#3 Take Advantage of Price Matching
The company has a solid price-matching policy. If you prove that your chosen item is cheaper elsewhere, Petco will lower its cost to match theirs. You’re good to go as long as the product is in stock. You can even make a claim within 14 days after purchase, and they’ll send you a refund. Just be sure to check the list of eligible competitors before you make your claim.
They also have a price adjustment policy, so you can get some money back on items you bought right before a sale.
#4 Join the Petco’s Vital Care
Petco’s Vital Care program is an annual wellness membership for your pet. Monthly fees range from $9.99 to $19.99 per month, depending on the animal. You get deals on vet exams, grooming appointments, and pet-sitting services.
Monthly fees can round down to $5 or so once you factor in discounts, points earned, and cash back.
Vital Care perks also include 10% off food and various supplies. You even get 20% off cat litter and reptile heating and lighting.
#5 Check Petco’s Online Clearance and Sale Section
Petco has very competitive clearance sales in January and around Halloween. You’ll find discounts ranging from 50% to 75% off. But you can find clearance items on their website all year long.
From the homepage, scroll down to Sale. This takes you to the top deals section. Bargains are broken down by pet type. From there, you can look for general clearance items or further filter your search. It’s easy to explore and find exactly what you need.
#6 Use the Petco Pay Credit Card
You can apply for both a Petco Credit Card and a Mastercard you can use anywhere. But you need to be a rewards member to apply to either. Both cards offer 8% cash back on anything you buy at Petco. You’ll also get 20% off your first purchase.
Mastercard users get 1% to 2% back in Pals Rewards on purchases outside of Petco. The company also gives a small donation to animals in need with every purchase. We think that’s pretty cool.
However, we recommend you closely monitor your balance. Their credit card interest rates are upwards of 26%.
#7 Join the Mailing List for Discounts
Nowadays, every store out there has a mailing list. But Petco’s is worth signing up for. Not only do you get 10% off your first order, but you’ll also see a list of current coupons and offers. They’ll even send you previews for future deals so you can plan ahead.
This is the perfect way to stock up on any essentials you’ll always need, like food or litter. You can also use them toward any big one-time purchases you’ve been waiting on.
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling with your furry friends, make sure you know these 5 Reasons Not to Lock Your Dog in an RV Camper.
Don’t Sleep on Discounts for Your Fur Babies
“Healthier Pets. Happier People. Better World.” That’s the Petco motto, and they seem to do right by it. But if you’re going to shop with them, you should follow our tips to ensure you get the most out of it.
Whether it’s a simple coupon on their website or access to animal welfare programs, there’re plenty of ways to take advantage of their offerings. Plus, you don’t have to leave your pet behind while you shop. That can be especially nice when you’re traveling and need a fun place where everyone can stretch their legs.
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