The coronavirus pandemic is changing how we shop, both for ourselves and our pets. Consumer Reports recently noted that a growing number of pet owners are shopping online for pet supplies.
Pet owners are turning to online shopping both for convenience and better prices, CR reports. The publication talked to pet owners who say they get cheaper supplies — including medications — by shopping online.
Two online retailers earn especially high marks from owners. In a separate survey conducted in May, CR found that Amazon and Chewy are among the most popular and beloved online pet retailers.
The survey of about 2,000 U.S. adults found that 57% have shopped at Amazon most often when buying pet supplies in the past year, and 35% said they most often shop at Chewy.
CR notes that both retailers received high marks for price, speed of delivery and website usability. According to CR:
“Respondents expressed a slight preference for Chewy over Amazon in terms of product selection and quality, as well as the quality of customer service.”
Finding the right online pet retailer likely is a top concern for a growing number of people. Pet adoptions have skyrocketed during the pandemic.
Diane Johnson, Animal League America’s vice president of operations, told CR that during the pandemic, the organization has seen a doubling of the number of people seeking pets to adopt.
As more families adopt pets, these households are spending greater amounts of cash on their furry friends. Last month, Deloitte reported that half of the more than 4,000 consumers it queried in its annual holiday retail survey intend to spend an average of $90 on pet food and supplies during the holidays.
CNBC reports that retailers — both online and brick-and-mortar — are preparing for the increased demand by stocking up on such pet gifts as seasonal costumes, chew toys and beds.
As online sales surge, brick-and-mortar retailers are adjusting to the new realities. For example, earlier this year, both PetSmart and Petco started allowing customers who purchase items online to get them via curbside pickup at retail stores, CNBC reports.
If you are new to the world of pets — or even if you are a longtime owner — you can find more tips for cutting costs in:
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