Retail pet pharmacy PetCareRx was founded in 1998 in honor of founder Blake Brossman’s Rottweiler, Lou, who lost a battle with cancer. Brossman was inspired to start his company after realizing just how expensive pet medications can be; according to the PetCareRx site, 7 pills for Lou’s cancer treatment cost $700, when the wholesale price for that same medication was only $.07 per pill. Brossman figured if he could make a company that carried pet medications at prices pet parents could actually afford, he would not only create a successful business but also help thousands of families at the same time.
Nearly 15 years later, PetCareRx is a licensed pet pharmacy operating in all 50 states and a popular e-commerce option for pet owners, offering pet medications (including prescription meds), food, and supplies for dogs, cats, and more. The site offers great heartworm preventative and flea and tick preventative guarantees, which could provide peace of mind for customers. Prices on prescription medications are certainly lower than what many vets can offer, but prices on pet food and supplies fall somewhere in the middle or near the top compared to other e-commerce options.
Standard shipping takes anywhere from 3-7 days anywhere in the continental U.S., and orders over $35 qualify for free shipping. Extra charges and restrictions may apply for heavier items or products that require refrigeration.
PetCareRx generously helped raise $25,000 for Hurricane Katrina relief in 2005 with the “I Saved a Pet” campaign. In the week after Hurricane Sandy, which devastated the area near their Long Island company headquarters, PetCareRx also donated 5 percent of profits from their site. The company frequently donates funds and food to their partner charity Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities, sponsoring service animals. Founder Blake Brossman is also on the board for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, a cause toward which the company has also generously donated.
Overall, customer opinion seems to be improving; while past reviews express frustration with communication, packaging, high prices, and confusion when using coupons, recent reviews praise prompt delivery, ease of ordering, and the customer service department — a good sign that PetCareRx is moving in the right direction.
PROS: Includes prescription medications, charitable company
CONS: Prices on food and supplies could be lower
Ratings (each out of a possible 5):
Shipping options/pricing: 3
Selection/variety: 3
Charitable giving: 4
Product prices: 2
Customer comments/reviews: 4
Overall rating: 3 out of 5
