For those of you who answer "Spoiled Sweet" on all those Spoiled Sweet or Rotten polls, I guess you weren't kidding! In a story released yesterday, the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association estimates that American pet owners spent over $41 billion dollars last year on their furry pals.
APPMA President Bob Vetere credits trends in design and including pets part of your family to the rise in spending.
"High end products in general are on the rise, as is gift giving and new product introductions and innovation. The pet industry continues to grow at a record pace and the future is no exception. Pet owners and the companies providing pet products and services show no sign of letting up."
To hear more about where our money is going and why, read more
High end pet accessories, carriers, designer clothes, and organic food topped the spending list, but big money was also spent on pet health insurance, pet spas and hotels, as well as doggie day care.
What's more is Americans are expected to spend even more this year – an estimated $48 million – which is more than double what we spent in 1996! I suppose since over 71 million American homes are with pet, it really evens out, right? Or maybe I'm just feeling guilty over spending a little too much on North's food bowls. Either way, our pets are worth it. Wouldn't you agree?
Tula
Forzieri
Yumi
i must be old fashioned when i give my dogs a marrow bone, dry food and fresh water alone in their existence. they seem happy enough.
1While the $41 million figure provided for pet spending in 2007 in the article is impressive, it's incorrect. The APPMA reports $41.2 billion (yes, with a "b") was spent on the care and pampering of US pooches in 2007. It estimates Americans will spend $43.4 billion in 2008.
With regard to the post above re: marrow bones, it's true, dogs love bones, but be careful of their teeth. My nearly 12-year old black lab/pit bull mix's dentist (ayup, she has a dentist), has removed three of her teeth at no small expense. Two were badly infected, the other wasn't thank goodness, but just like with people, broken, infected teeth can cause other health problems.
Maggie's dentist says it's best not to give dogs anything harder than you can chew.
We got so much joy watching Maggie devour her bone treats, but it just isn't worth destroying her teeth or the expense of having broken ones removed. Rubberized toys, rawhides and teeth cleaning biscuits are safer options.
2oh i spoil the crap out of max.
3toys, dog walker, day care, trips, designer duds..all of it.
he is my baby. he deserves the best.
I wouldn't say I spoil him but I do make sure he is getting what he needs to stay healthy and active. I have to buy somewhat expensive toys since he can destroy anything too flimsy in less than a minute... As he has gotten older I have started spending more on other things like a good quality bed and food. The natural food trend with dogs is really picking up and after reading up on it, I'm starting to buy in (been trying out holistic brands like Taste of the Wild). I don't want to spend a ton but I'm not going to skimp out on the things he really needs every day. Don't feel guilty about those bowls- they are super cute and also for you since they are part of the decor in your house!
4if i had a dog it would be so spoiled. i spoil my cat but my cat refuses to wear clothes which angers me so much!
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