PetSmart is a well-known pet retailer in North America, offering a wide range of pet supplies, grooming services, and even veterinary care. If you’re considering adding a furry, scaly, or feathered friend to your family, you might be wondering, “Can You Buy A Pet At Petsmart?” The answer is yes, but with some important nuances. PetSmart provides a platform to acquire certain types of pets and facilitates pet adoptions through partnerships with local animal shelters and rescue organizations.
What Kind of Pets Can You Buy Directly at PetSmart?
When you visit a PetSmart store with the intention of buying a pet, you’ll primarily find a selection of small animals. These typically include:
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Fish: PetSmart offers a diverse array of fish, from bettas and goldfish to tropical and saltwater species. You can find everything you need to set up an aquarium, and knowledgeable associates are usually available to guide you through the process of selecting the right fish and aquarium supplies.
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Small Pets: Hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, rabbits, and rats are commonly available in PetSmart stores. They also carry a variety of cages, bedding, food, and toys designed for these small companions.
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Reptiles and Amphibians: Depending on the location and time of year, PetSmart may have reptiles like lizards (such as geckos and bearded dragons), snakes (like corn snakes and ball pythons), turtles, and amphibians like frogs. They also stock the necessary terrariums, heating lamps, and food for these specialized pets.
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Birds: Parakeets, finches, canaries, and sometimes cockatiels can be found at PetSmart. They offer bird cages, perches, food, and toys to create a suitable environment for your avian friend.
PetSmart and Pet Adoptions: Cats and Dogs
While you can directly purchase the small animals mentioned above, PetSmart does not sell cats or dogs in their stores. Instead, PetSmart partners with local animal shelters and rescue organizations to host adoption events in their stores. This approach is part of PetSmart’s commitment to animal welfare, focusing on finding homes for pets in need rather than breeding and selling cats and dogs.
If you are looking to adopt a cat or dog, PetSmart is an excellent place to start. Many PetSmart locations regularly host adoption events, often on weekends. These events bring adoptable cats and dogs from local shelters into the store, giving potential pet owners the opportunity to meet and interact with them.
The Pet Buying Process at PetSmart
Whether you’re buying a small animal or considering adoption, PetSmart aims to make the process as smooth and responsible as possible.
For Small Animals, Fish, Reptiles, and Birds:
- Visit a Store: Go to your local PetSmart and explore the pet sections. Observe the animals and ensure they appear healthy and well-cared for.
- Speak with an Associate: PetSmart associates can provide information about the specific needs of each animal, including diet, habitat requirements, and care tips. Don’t hesitate to ask questions.
- Purchase Supplies: Ensure you have all the necessary supplies before bringing your new pet home. This includes appropriate housing, food, bedding, and any other species-specific requirements.
- Complete Paperwork: You will need to complete some basic paperwork at the checkout.
For Cat and Dog Adoptions:
- Check for Adoption Events: Visit the PetSmart website or your local store to find out about upcoming adoption events.
- Meet Adoptable Pets: Attend an event and spend time with the cats and dogs available for adoption. Talk to the shelter or rescue organization representatives present to learn about each animal’s personality and history.
- Application and Interview: If you find a pet you connect with, you’ll typically need to fill out an adoption application. The shelter or rescue organization will review your application and may conduct an interview to ensure you are a good match for the animal.
- Adoption Fee and Paperwork: If your application is approved, you will pay an adoption fee to the shelter or rescue organization and complete the necessary adoption paperwork.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Pet at PetSmart
- Research: Before you decide to buy any pet, conduct thorough research on the specific species. Understand their lifespan, dietary needs, housing requirements, and potential health issues.
- Commitment: Owning a pet is a significant commitment. Ensure you are ready to provide proper care, attention, and financial resources for the entire life of the animal.
- Ethical Considerations: Consider the ethical implications of buying pets. Adopting from shelters and rescues is often seen as a more ethical choice, especially for cats and dogs. For small animals, ensure you are purchasing from a retailer that prioritizes animal welfare.
- PetSmart’s Animal Welfare Standards: PetSmart has implemented various animal care standards and works with reputable breeders for the animals they sell directly. However, it’s always wise to observe the animals in-store to ensure they appear healthy and are housed in clean conditions.
Conclusion
So, can you buy a pet at PetSmart? Yes, you can purchase fish, small pets, reptiles, and birds directly from PetSmart. For cats and dogs, PetSmart facilitates adoptions through partnerships with local shelters and rescues. Whether you are buying a small companion or adopting a cat or dog, PetSmart offers resources and opportunities to bring a pet into your life. Remember to approach pet ownership responsibly, with careful consideration of the animal’s needs and your ability to provide a loving and permanent home.
