Have you walked up to your local pet shop lately and seen a “Store Closing” sign in the window? It can be a real heart-sinker! For many of us, Petco isn’t just a place to grab a bag of kibble; it’s where our pups get their favorite treats and where we meet experts who love our furry friends as much as we do. Recently, news about petco closing stores has been popping up everywhere, leaving many pet parents worried about where they will go for grooming, vet visits, and toys.
If you are feeling a bit anxious, don’t worry—you aren’t alone. In this article, we are going to dive deep into what is actually happening. We will look at why these changes are occurring, which states are affected, and how Petco is planning to become even better for us in the long run. Think of this as your friendly guide to navigating the changing world of pet retail.
The Big Question: Why is Petco Closing Stores?
It might seem strange that a huge company like Petco would shut its doors, especially since we all love our pets so much! However, the world of shopping is changing fast. One of the main reasons for petco closing stores is a shift in how people buy things. Many pet owners now prefer to order heavy bags of dog food online and have them delivered right to their porch. This means some of the older, larger physical stores aren’t as busy as they used to be.
Additionally, the company is focusing on “fleet optimization.” This is just a fancy way of saying they are looking at which stores are making money and which ones aren’t. By closing underperforming locations, Petco can take that money and invest it into better services at their most popular spots—like adding more high-tech vet clinics or improving their mobile app. It’s a bit like pruning a plant so it can grow stronger!
A Look at the Numbers: Petco’s 2025 and 2026 Strategy
To understand the full picture, we have to look at the recent past. In 2024, Petco closed about 25 stores. As we moved through 2025, they continued this trend with another 20 to 25 planned closures. Now, as we enter 2026, the company is finishing up this “transformation phase.” The goal is to move away from unprofitable sales and focus on things that really matter to pet owners, like health and wellness.
Which States Have Seen the Most Petco Closures?
While Petco hasn’t released one single “master list” for the entire country at once, local news reports have helped us track where the doors are locking. Many of the petco closing stores are located in areas where there are either too many Petco locations close together or where rent has become too expensive.
States like California, New York, and New Jersey have seen several closures over the last 18 months. Often, these are older “legacy” stores that don’t have the space to include a full veterinary hospital or a high-end grooming salon. Petco is prioritizing locations that can offer “one-stop-shopping” for both products and medical care.
Is Petco Going Out of Business? (The Truth)
With all the talk about petco closing stores, it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that the whole company is in trouble. But here’s the good news: Petco is definitely not going out of business. In fact, they recently finished a big plan to fix their debt and are actually seeing their profits start to climb back up in 2026.
Think of these closures as a “reset button.” Instead of having 1,500 okay stores, they want to have 1,400 amazing stores. They are even planning to test out new, smaller store formats in big cities and metro stations. So, while your specific neighborhood shop might move or close, the brand itself is staying put to help your pets live their best lives.
How This Affects Your Grooming and Vet Appointments
One of the biggest headaches when a store closes is figuring out what happens to your pet’s records. If you use Petco’s VitalCare or have a regular groomer there, a closure can feel like a disaster. Usually, when petco closing stores occurs, the company tries to move the staff and the digital records to the next closest location.
If your store is on the list, you should receive an email or a notification in the Petco app. It’s always a good idea to ask your favorite groomer where they are headed. Often, they just move a few miles down the road! Your loyalty points and memberships will stay active and can be used at any other Petco or on their website.
The Rise of Petco’s Digital and Omnichannel Shopping
Petco is leaning heavily into what experts call “Omnichannel” shopping. This just means they want your experience on your phone to be just as good as your experience in the store. Since many petco closing stores were older shops that didn’t work well with “Buy Online, Pick Up In Store” (BOPIS) services, the company is focusing on locations that can handle fast shipping and easy curbside pickups.
In 2026, we are seeing more “Repeat Delivery” discounts and a revamped membership program. They are using AI to help predict when you’ll run out of cat litter or dog treats, so it shows up at your door exactly when you need it. It’s all about making life easier for the human, so they have more time to play with the pet!
Comparing Petco to Other Pet Retailers
You might wonder if other stores like PetSmart are doing the same thing. Interestingly, PetSmart has closed far fewer stores recently. This is because Petco and PetSmart have slightly different goals. Petco is trying very hard to be seen as a “Health and Wellness” company, almost like a doctor’s office and a grocery store combined.
Because Petco is a “publicly traded” company (meaning people can buy stocks in it), they have to show investors that they are being very smart with their money. This pressure to be profitable is a big reason why we see more petco closing stores compared to some of their competitors. They are trimming the fat to make sure the company stays healthy for the next 60 years.
What Should You Do if Your Local Store Closes?
If you find out your local spot is part of the petco closing stores list, don’t panic! Here are a few quick steps you can take:
- Check the App: See where the next nearest location is.
- Download Records: If you use their vet services, keep a digital copy of your pet’s shots.
- Use Your Rewards: If you have “Pals Rewards” or “VitalCare” coupons, use them before you forget!
- Look for Sales: Closing stores often have “Clearance” events where you can find great deals on crates, beds, and toys.
The Future of Petco: What to Expect in 2026 and Beyond
As we look forward, the era of petco closing stores is expected to slow down. The company’s leadership has stated that 2026 is their year to “return to growth.” We might even see them start opening new kinds of stores that look very different from the ones we grew up with.
Expect to see more technology, more organic food options, and a huge focus on sustainability. Petco wants 50% of its products to be eco-friendly by the end of this year. So, while the “shuttering” of stores feels sad, it’s actually making room for a greener, more tech-savvy way to take care of our animals.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Pet Parents
Change is never easy, especially when it involves the places we rely on for our family members—and yes, pets are family! While the news of petco closing stores might mean a longer drive for some of us, it’s part of a bigger plan to keep Petco around for a long time. By focusing on quality over quantity, they are making sure they can provide the best vet care, the healthiest food, and the coolest toys for years to come.
Stay positive, keep an eye on your email for updates, and remember that “Where the Pets Go” is still here—it just might be a different building or even a different screen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Petco closing all of its stores? No! Petco is only closing a small percentage (about 2% or less) of its total stores. They still have nearly 1,400 locations open across the country.
2. How do I know if my Petco is closing? The best way to know is to check for signs at the front of the store or look for an email notification. You can also use the store locator on the Petco website; closing stores are usually removed or marked.
3. What happens to my Petco VitalCare membership if my store closes? Your membership is valid at all Petco locations and online. You can still get your discounts and benefits at any other store or through the Petco app.
4. Will there be big sales at the closing stores? Yes, usually! When petco closing stores news breaks for a specific spot, they often have “liquidation sales” where prices drop every week until the doors finally close.
5. Can I still return items I bought at a closing store? Yes, you can return items to any other Petco location as long as you have your receipt and follow their standard return policy.