Are Your Stocks Going to the Dogs? Maybe They Should Be: PetSmart, Inc. (PETM), IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (IDXX)

Like IDEXX, MWI Veterinary supply sells to veterinarians rather than direct to consumers. Started in 1976 by a veterinarian, MWI offers diagnostic supplies, veterinary medical equipment and prescription diets. They can fill orders for Schedule II and II N drug orders for licensed buyers, which makes them a nice one-stop shopping experience for a lot of veterinarians. With a market cap of $1.59 billion, MWI is the smallest of the companies I suggest you consider, but with over 30 years of experience and a steady overall rise in stock prices since 2009, MWI is a company to watch. With an operating margin of just 4.1%, though, MWI is the least attractive of the three companies I listed, but it’s still worth watching.

In short, even in tough economic times, Americans spend a lot of money on their pets, so pet friendly stocks are worth a look when you’re expanding your portfolio.

The article Are Your Stocks Going to the Dogs? Maybe They Should Be originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Marie Flanigan.

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