Does PetSmart Sell Animals? Unveiling the Truth Behind the Pet Store Giant

Yes, PetSmart does sell animals, but with a significant caveat. While they offer a variety of pets for adoption through partnerships with local animal welfare organizations, PetSmart itself primarily sells small animals like fish, hamsters, guinea pigs, reptiles, and certain birds. This distinction is crucial to understanding PetSmart’s business model and its role in the pet industry.

The PetSmart Business Model: Sales vs. Adoption

PetSmart’s approach to animal sales is a hybrid one, balancing direct sales of certain species with facilitating adoptions for others. This strategy allows them to cater to a broad customer base while also addressing concerns about animal welfare and overpopulation. Let’s delve deeper into each facet:

Animals Sold Directly by PetSmart

The animals typically sold directly by PetSmart include:

• Fish: From common goldfish to more exotic tropical species, fish represent a significant portion of their live animal inventory.
• Small Mammals: Hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, rats, and mice are generally available for purchase. These are popular choices for families looking for relatively low-maintenance pets.
• Reptiles: Lizards (like bearded dragons and geckos), snakes (such as corn snakes and ball pythons), turtles, and amphibians can often be found in PetSmart’s reptile section.
• Birds: While not as prevalent as other animals, certain bird species, such as parakeets and finches, are usually offered for sale.

The Adoption Partnership Program

This is where PetSmart truly shines. They dedicate store space to local animal shelters and rescue organizations to host adoption events. This allows potential pet owners to meet and interact with dogs and cats (and sometimes other animals) in a safe and convenient environment. PetSmart doesn’t profit directly from these adoptions; the adoption fees go directly to the partner organizations.

This partnership is a win-win situation. It increases the visibility of adoptable animals, provides shelters with much-needed resources, and gives PetSmart customers the opportunity to rescue a pet in need.

Addressing Animal Welfare Concerns

PetSmart has faced its share of criticism regarding the ethical sourcing and care of the animals they sell. To address these concerns, the company has implemented several policies and practices:

Supplier Standards

PetSmart claims to have strict guidelines for its suppliers, requiring them to adhere to humane animal care standards. These standards cover areas such as housing, nutrition, and veterinary care. However, the effectiveness of these standards is often debated, and investigations have sometimes revealed instances of animal mistreatment at supplier facilities.

In-Store Care Practices

PetSmart’s employees are responsible for the daily care of the animals in their stores. This includes feeding, watering, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring their health. While most employees are dedicated to providing good care, the sheer volume of animals in some stores can make it challenging to ensure that every animal receives the individual attention it needs.

Education and Resources

PetSmart provides educational resources to customers on the proper care of their pets. This includes information on nutrition, habitat requirements, and common health problems. They also offer a range of products to help pet owners provide for their animals’ needs.

The Future of Animal Sales at PetSmart

The pet industry is evolving, and PetSmart is adapting to changing consumer attitudes and growing concerns about animal welfare. There is a growing trend towards adoption and rescue, and PetSmart’s adoption program is a testament to this shift.

It’s likely that PetSmart will continue to refine its approach to animal sales, focusing on responsible sourcing, enhanced care practices, and a greater emphasis on adoption. The company’s long-term success will depend on its ability to balance its business interests with its commitment to animal welfare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about PetSmart and Animal Sales

1. Does PetSmart sell puppies or kittens?

No, PetSmart does not sell puppies or kittens. They exclusively partner with local animal shelters and rescue organizations to facilitate dog and cat adoptions. This is a core part of their commitment to promoting adoption over breeding.

2. Where do the animals PetSmart sells come from?

The animals PetSmart sells are sourced from a variety of breeders and suppliers. PetSmart claims to have strict guidelines for these suppliers to ensure humane animal care. However, it’s essential to research specific breeders and suppliers to ensure they meet ethical standards.

3. How do I adopt a pet from PetSmart?

PetSmart partners with local animal shelters and rescue organizations to host adoption events in their stores. You can find out when these events are happening at your local PetSmart by checking their website or contacting the store directly. You can also often see animals available for adoption in dedicated areas within the store.

4. What are the adoption fees at PetSmart?

Adoption fees are determined by the animal shelter or rescue organization, not PetSmart. These fees typically cover the cost of vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and other medical care. Contact the specific rescue or shelter for detailed pricing.

5. Does PetSmart guarantee the health of the animals they sell?

PetSmart offers a health guarantee for the animals they sell, typically covering a specific period (e.g., 14 days). This guarantee usually covers veterinary expenses if the animal becomes ill within the guarantee period. Be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions.

6. What if the animal I bought from PetSmart gets sick?

If your animal gets sick within the health guarantee period, contact PetSmart and your veterinarian immediately. PetSmart will likely require documentation from your veterinarian to process a claim under the health guarantee.

7. Does PetSmart offer returns on animals?

Yes, generally PetSmart allows returns of animals within a specified timeframe, particularly if there are health issues covered by their health guarantee. However, policies can vary, so it’s best to check with your local store for their specific return policy.

8. What kind of care do animals receive in PetSmart stores?

PetSmart employees are responsible for the daily care of animals, including feeding, watering, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring their health. They are also trained to identify signs of illness or distress. However, ensuring consistent and thorough care can be challenging due to the high volume of animals.

9. Does PetSmart support animal welfare organizations?

Yes, PetSmart actively supports animal welfare organizations through its adoption program, fundraising campaigns, and charitable donations. They also work with animal welfare groups to develop and implement responsible sourcing and care practices.

10. How can I report concerns about animal welfare at a PetSmart store?

If you have concerns about animal welfare at a PetSmart store, you should contact the store manager directly. You can also contact PetSmart’s corporate office or file a complaint with your local animal control agency. Providing detailed information and evidence (such as photos or videos) can help ensure your concerns are addressed.

11. Is it better to adopt or buy a pet from PetSmart?

Adopting a pet is generally considered the more ethical and responsible choice. Adoption saves lives, reduces pet overpopulation, and supports animal shelters and rescue organizations. While buying a pet from PetSmart is an option, consider the potential ethical implications of supporting breeders and suppliers.

12. What are some alternatives to buying animals from PetSmart?

If you’re looking for a pet, consider these alternatives to buying from PetSmart:

• Local Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations: These organizations have a wide variety of animals looking for loving homes.
• Breed-Specific Rescues: If you’re interested in a particular breed, a breed-specific rescue organization can be a great option.
• Responsible Breeders: If you choose to buy from a breeder, do thorough research to ensure they adhere to ethical breeding practices and prioritize the health and welfare of their animals.