In a significant move aimed at enhancing animal welfare and promoting responsible pet ownership, Petco has reaffirmed its commitment to an adoption-only policy for rabbits. This announcement, made on September 24, 2024, comes after a trial period where the company experimented with selling rabbits in select locations, resulting in fewer than 50 sales.
Rabbits, known to be the third most popular companion animal in the United States, have been at the forefront of Petco’s mission to prioritize animal adoption. This decision aligns with the company’s longstanding philosophy of “Think Adoption First,” which encourages potential pet parents to consider adopting rather than purchasing a pet whenever feasible. The decision was influenced by valuable feedback from animal rescue and welfare organizations across the nation.
Benjamin Thiele-Long, Petco’s Chief ESG & Communications Officer, emphasized the importance of learning through pilot programs. He stated, “As a mission-driven business, piloting and learning new ways of working is crucial to our long-term success. We aim to improve lives and do what is right for pets and the communities we serve.” Thiele-Long noted that the pilot program provided insights from Petco partners and customers, as well as from Petco Love and its network of animal welfare partners. The consensus was clear: the company could make a more significant impact by focusing on finding homes for the thousands of rabbits in need of loving families.
In support of this renewed commitment, Petco is implementing a special offer to encourage responsible rabbit adoptions. From now until the end of October, pet parents who adopt a rabbit from an established rabbit rescue or adoption group will receive a 20% discount on essential supplies and food for their new pet. This initiative aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with bringing a new rabbit into the home.
Furthermore, Petco has announced that all remaining miniature rabbits that were previously available for purchase during the pilot program will now be available for adoption. This transition reflects the company’s dedication to ensuring that every rabbit finds a suitable home.
Susanne Kogut, President of Petco Love, expressed her satisfaction with Petco’s decision to return to an adoption-only model for rabbits. She praised the company’s leaders for listening to the feedback from the animal welfare community and remaining true to Petco’s mission of improving lives for pets and the people who care for them. Kogut highlighted the longstanding support Petco and its customers have provided to Petco Love and its animal welfare partners, which play a crucial role in saving animal lives.
For those interested in adopting a rabbit, Petco encourages potential pet parents to explore local adoption opportunities. The company has made it easier for individuals to find adoptable pets by directing them to the Petco Love website, where a variety of animals in need of homes can be discovered.
Petco, established in 1965, has evolved into a leading health and wellness company dedicated to enhancing the lives of pets, their owners, and Petco partners. The company has consistently set high standards in pet care, providing a comprehensive range of wellness products that cater to the needs of pets.
With this renewed focus on adoption, Petco aims to make a lasting impact on the rabbit population in the U.S., ensuring that more rabbits find loving homes while promoting responsible pet ownership practices among its customers.
