Winn-Dixie Fills Pet Prescriptions

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Winn-Dixie Stores here is the latest supermarket to join a growing list of grocery chains filling pet prescriptions.

The new service is offered through a partnership with Center Pet Pharmacies, according to reports. Pet prescriptions that are also effective in humans are filled same day, and special compounds typically within 24 to 48 hours.

“Our pharmacy now offers every pet medication on the market,” states the retailer in promotional materials. “More convenient and less expensive than buying online. Pick up all your prescriptions in one spot.”

Stop & Shop, Wal-Mart, Target, Walgreens and Kroger are among the retailers getting into the cash business of pet prescriptions at a time of diminishing pharmacy profits. Since nearly all pets — 99% — are uninsured, terms set but pharmacy benefit managers seldom apply.