The Scoop: Pampered Pets to the Economy's Rescue

November 3, 2008

Even if you don't exactly consider your pet to be your "child", experts say many people are as dedicated to their animals as parents are to children . . . and will sacrifice themselves before trimming back on four-legged friends. It's expected that Americans will spend $43.4 billion this year on their pets – although that's down from the original prediction, pet pampering doesn't show many signs of slowing down. Morningstar analyst ">R.J. Hottovy says:

It's definitely more resilient than most categories tied to discretionary spending. It's one of the last categories (people) cut out of their budget.

I couldn't agree more as my weekend trip to Petco found me picking up a bag of gourmet treats for my lil guy in addition to a 20-lb. bag of dog food – while I'm not willing to downgrade my pups' food, I am trying to buy in bulk to save some money. Is the analyst's statement true for you, too?

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3 Comments

Renees3 4 years 28 weeks

i would never skimp on B-Bop. I feel like since I take care of him and he relly has no choice in the matter and it's not like he can get a job, its MY resposibility and he shouldn't suffer for things he can't change.

Aphrosette 4 years 28 weeks

I completely agree. I will sacrafice just about anything financially for my pups. especially when they were puppies and we were "new parents" and it felt like we were at the vet every other week. We make sure they have the finest food, groomers, training, you name it, they get it. (Except toys, these guys are destructo dogs!!) One word of caution on buying food in bulk though, contrary to popular belief dog food DOES go bad. If you buy in bulk store in an air tight container but you shouldn't have the same open bag for more than about a month. Its like potato chips, they don't go bad fast but they do go bad. Most dogs will continue to eat bad food as they are not picky, but that doesn't mean its good for them or their digestion. Just be careful.

ladyr 4 years 28 weeks

It's funny because when I get low on cash, I will feed myself cheaper food (dinner a la Top Ramen anyone? :)), but I never downgrade when it comes to my dogs. They always get their high quality food. I would be pampering them more if I had more $$$ right now, though.

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