MEXICO CITY, June 12 (Reuters) - Mexican pharmacy chain Farmacias Similares has expanded into veterinary care with the opening of its first on-site pet clinic, the company said on Thursday.
WHY IT'S IMPORTANT
Similares, known for its iconic Dr. Simi mascot and plushes which have become popular gifts for visiting international musicians, is one of Mexico's leading pharmacy chains, and already offers low-cost doctor consults for patients at many of its locations.
KEY QUOTE
"We discovered that Mexico faces a scarcity of veterinary services, and rising costs," CEO Victor Gonzalez said in a statement.
BY THE NUMBERS
Mexicans have some 80 million pets, according to data from the nation's statistics agency. However, only 42% of pet owners seek out specialist care for their animals, Farmacias Similares said.
Similares' pet clinic will initially offer consults for 75 pesos ($3.97).
CONTEXT
Options for pet care in Mexico are limited, and Petco WOOF.O is one of the only chains offering such services. Most veterinarians operate as private practices.
Farmacias Similares' pet clinics will offer basic services such as vaccinations, deworming, wound treatment and low-cost medications.
WHAT'S NEXT
Farmacias Similares initially plans to roll out 20 clinics nationwide.
($1 = 18.8810 Mexican pesos)
(Reporting by Kylie Madry; Editing by Nia Williams)
((Kylie.Madry@thomsonreuters.com;))
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