PETCO

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PETCO Animal Supplies, Inc.

Type	Private
Founded	1965
Headquarters	San Diego, California
Industry	Retail
Products	Pet supplies
Website	http://www.petco.com/

PETCO is a leading chain of retail stores that offers pet supplies and services such as grooming and dog training. Founded in 1965 and incorporated in Delaware, it is headquartered in San Diego, California, and is now a private company held by Texas Pacific Group and Leonard Green & Partners.

As of 2006, PETCO has over 800 locations in 49 states and the District of Columbia.

Brian Devine is the Chairman of the Board, Bruce Hall is the COO and president, and James Myers is the CEO.

On July 14, 2006, PETCO announced the company would be acquired by two private equity groups, Texas Pacific Group and Leonard Green & Partners at a cost of $1.8 billion. The deal is subject to shareholder and regulatory approval, and is expected to close by the fourth quarter of 2006.

The PETCO Foundation, since its inception in 1999, has raised in excess of $800 million for support of more than 3,500 non-profit animal welfare programs across the nation.

In 1998, PETCO launched the "Think Adoption First" program, which encourages the adoption of companion animals as opposed to the outright purchase of them. The program is to reflect PETCO's goal of finding a loving and suitable home for animals.

Through partnership with PetCare Pet Insurance, pet insurance is available to animal owners who wish to be prepared for the worst case scenario. A free insurance quote can be obtained at PETCO's homepage.

PETCO runs a natural/holistic food section in its stores referred to as "It's All Natural". The line contains a variety of brands of natural foods that offer no additives or preservatives, and includes only pure/natural ingredients to promote the physical well-being of cats and dogs. The section has become increasingly popular and profitable in the last few years, instantiating a similar trend in other leading pet stores. PETCO often opens its doors to competitors to visit and observe/photograph the section to help in expanding the healthier diet.

[edit] Animal Rights

PETCO was spotlighted when PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) discovered that they were selling large exotic birds in their shops. They have now signed an agreement with PETA to end the sale of large birds. This agreement can be found at PETCO Agreement