Clinic center: New virtual pet pharmacy service, and more

To meet the increasing need for pet health services, many practices are opening new locations or expanding their services. Other animal care establishments, such as daycares, are following suite with location expansions to help meet the demands of pet owners. Moreover, recently, the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the US launched a digital pet pharmacy.

Below are 3 recent and upcoming animal care facility and digital business openings:

Animal ER of University Park (Bradenton, Florida)

Animal ER of University Park in Bradenton, Florida (Image courtesy of Ethos Veterinary Health)

Animal ER of University Park (AERUP) recently relocated to a new, cutting-edge building, located across the street from their previous location. The new facility has 5000 sq ft of space with 6 exam rooms, a specialized waiting area for cats and dogs, a treatment area with 6 exam tables, an operating room, a special procedures room, an intensive care unit ward with Snyder oxygen cages, and separate dog and cat wards with 2 isolation wards and enclosed outdoor walk areas for dogs and isolation patients. Additionally, AERUP is extending its hours to 24/7 care for emergency services.

“This move represents an exciting new chapter for Animal ER of University Park,” Caroline McQuillan, hospital director at AERUP, said in a news release.¹ “We are committed to providing exceptional emergency and urgent care, and this new space allows us to expand our capabilities while ensuring a more comfortable experience for pets and their families.”

Tractor Supply Rx (Virtual)

Late last month, Tractor Supply Company announced the launch of Tractor Supply Rx, a new, low-cost pet and animal pharmacy service. Through the new platform, clients can purchase pet and animal medications, enroll in automatic delivery, and obtain pharmacy advice from experts, according to the company. In 2024, Tractor Supply acquired Allivet to expand its veterinary pharmacy capabilities and fulfill prescriptions through its new pharmacy service.

“With 3 out of 4 of our 38 million Neighbor’s Club members owning a pet or animal, we have continually sought ways to provide an easy, one-stop shopping destination for all of their needs,” Rob Mills, executive vice president, chief technology, digital and corporate strategy officer at Tractor Supply, said in a news release.² “We are now able to provide our pet customers with seamless, trusted access to the best value in medications and the expert guidance needed to help their pets and animals thrive—along with their favorite food, treats, toys and more.”

Dogdrop (Austin, Texas)

Dogdrop in Austin, Texas (Image courtesy of Dogdrop)

The dog daycare Dogdrop is opening a new location in East Austin, Texas this fall. The facility operates through a no-appointment-necessary model that requires payment in 30-minute increments. According to the organization, the location will have specialized play areas for the different personalities of dogs and will send clients real-time text updates with photos during each visit.

“Austin pet parents deserve a modern daycare option that fits their on-the-go lifestyle," Shaina Denny, CEO of Dogdrop, said in a company release.³ "Our members love that they can drop off their dogs for just a few hours rather than committing to a full day, and they appreciate receiving text updates with photos throughout their dog's stay. We've reimagined dog daycare for today's pet parent, and we're thrilled to bring this concept to East Austin.”

References

1. Animal ER of University Park announces exciting move to a new, state-of-the-art facility. News release. Animal ER of University Park. April 29, 2025.
2. Tractor Supply launches new Tractor Supply Rx with easy ordering for pet and animal pharmacy needs. News release. Tractor Supply Company. April 21, 2025. Accessed May 7, 2025. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250421317180/en/Tractor-Supply-Launches-New-Tractor-Supply-Rx-With-Easy-Ordering-for-Pet-and-Animal-Pharmacy-Needs
3. Austin goes to the dogs: Dogdrop brings innovative pet care to East Austin. News release. Dogdrop. April 21, 2025. Accessed May 7, 2025. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/austin-goes-to-the-dogs-dogdrop-brings-innovative-pet-care-to-east-austin-302434502.html