The Animal services and retail sector of the companion animal industry is in luck. The American Veterinary
Medical Association (AVMA) 2012 Pet Demographic Sourcebook suggests that
65 per cent of Americans consider their dogs, and 55 per cent consider their
cats, a member of the family.
According to a survey conducted by American Pet
Products Associations, Americans are spoiling those pets in ways similar to
spoiling children.
We pamper them. We bring them wherever we go. We surprise them with something new on special occasions. They even get holiday presents.
Indeed, emerging trends point toward a world
where companion animals are granted equal rights to caregivers. Many
hotels, businesses and even restaurants are opening their doors and
turning their attention to pets.
Reducing Your Pets Carbon PAW print
Around the world people are making conscious
efforts to help our planet Earth, and the pet industry is no exception. From
natural litters to toys, accessories and organic food options, earth-friendly
pet products are sprouting up everywhere.
Going to the Dogs
More
and more companies traditionally known for human products are going to the
dogs, and cats, and reptiles. Big name companies including like Paul Mitchell,
Omaha Steaks, Origins, Harley Davidson and Old Navy are now offering lines of
pet products ranging from dog shampoo, pet attire, and name-brand toys to
gourmet treats and food.
Pets Welcome
Many hotels across the country are adopting pet
friendly policies. Several chains have announced new pet-friendly policies that
include everything from oversized pet pillows, plush doggie robes, to check-in
gift packages that include a pet toy, dog treat, ID tag, bone and turn down
treat. Some even have a licensed dog masseuse on staff.
Pet Products Sold Here
Shopping
for pet products is becoming easier than ever with an increasing variety of
retail outlets now selling pet products. Right along side fertilizer and
shovels, shoppers can now find pet products such as doggie doors and yellow
lawn spot removers sold at many lawn and garden stores, nurseries, and major
home improvement stores including Home Depot.
Ultra-Clean…
Pet-owners
take grooming one step beyond a haircut, a quick bath and a nail trim.
Mouthwash and an electric toothbrush for canines are routine steps in a beauty
session for some pooches. Birds receive daily pedicures with special cage
perches, while others enjoy manicures complete with nail polish. Pet-owning
homes stay cleaner with automatic, self-flushing litter boxes, cleaning cloths
for muddy paws that mimic traditional baby wipes, and scented gel air fresheners
to keep rooms free of pet odors.
Dinner is Served
Today's
pet foods include complete and balanced diets that tantalize our pets' taste
buds and satisfy their tummies. Formulas for puppies and kittens, specialized
meals for reptiles, birds and fish and diets for senior pets ensure a long and
healthy life for our beloved companions.
State-of-the-Art
High-tech
products including computerized identification tags, digital aquarium kits,
automatic doors and feeders, enhanced reptile terrarium lighting systems and
touch-activated toys help pet-owners take care of companion animals with ease
and precision.
Loosen Up
As pet owners
meditate in yoga class, cats relieve stress by frolicking in a toy gym or
relaxing in a feline spa before enjoying herbal catnip packaged in a tea bag.
Dogs sip fresh water from flowing fountains after a soothing rub with a doggie
massager.
Help Yourself!
Products
designed with convenience in mind lead this trend. Programmable feeding and
drinking systems, automatic and battery-operated toys, self-cleaning litter
boxes and self-warming pet mats let pets virtually care for themselves!
Straight from the Catwalk
Faux
mink coats, hipster lumberjack vests, designer plaid jackets, matching jeweled
and leather collar and leash sets, Halloween costumes, and holiday outfits keep
pets in fashion throughout the year. Upscale leather carriers complete with a
cell phone and water bottle holder are the perfect accessories to keep the pet
owner in style as well.
Keep on Truckin'
Whether
it's a quick trip to the supermarket or a long ride to the beach, companion
animals are now traveling animals too. Buckled up in a harness, seat belt
system or a portable carrier, these pets stay safe and secure while on the
road. Food and water along with safety supplies are on hand in all-in-one kits,
waste disposal systems make for easy clean-up on quick stops and motion
sickness aids are available too.
Hello, My Name Is…
Guilty of most of the above as my 2 dogs and 3 horses definitely ARE members of my family!
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