America is Going to the Dogs! Pet Product Industry Answers the Call
by Anonymous

September 4, 2004 -- America is going to the dogs! (and the cats, and the birds, and the snakes…) There are more pets than people in the U.S. In fact, Americans own more pets than ever before. Approximately 65 percent of American households now own a pet, which is the highest level in recorded history. The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association's (APPMA) 2003/2004 National Pet Owners Survey shows pets are playing a bigger role in the American Dream as people become more aware of the benefits associated with welcoming a pet into the home.

Indeed, the human-animal bond is stronger than ever. Most pet owners consider their pets as family members. A survey conducted by the APPMA shows that eighty-three percent of pet owners refer to themselves as their pet's mom or dad. While fifty-nine percent consider their pet to be their best friend. As a show of their affection, American spending on pets has almost double in recent years. In 2003, American pet owners spent $31 billion on their small companions, outpacing the human popular toy industry ($20.3 billion in annual sales) and the candy industry ($24 billion). And there's no end in sight as expenditures on pets are projected to reach $37 billion by 2008.

This monster of an industry has spurred the creation of unique specialty pet products that rival those of humans. Here are some top picks of some very practical yet very unique pet products to come to market.

To keep your pooch safe from the elements, have you ever considered a dog leash umbrella? The mailman has nothing on your pet when they're equipped with this all-weather pet umbrella. It'll protect your pampered pooch from rain, sleet, snow or hail. It's a dog leash with an umbrella attached. The umbrella is clear so that your pet can be in full view, however the edges are trimmed with classic plaid waterproof fabric so your pet will be styling. What WILL they think of next?

How about a pet ramp that doubles as a boat & dock ramp as well as a vehicle ramp for pets? That's right, no more hauling your dog up from the water onto the boat or dock. This ramp actually grips onto the edge of your dock or boat, goes out into the water and has two buoys at the end. It allows pets to swim around and then climb back onto the boat or dock all by themselves. And when you're not enjoying the water with your dog, detach the buoys and use it as ramp for your truck or SUV.    

If your pet doesn't mind sharing, consider the 2-in-1 Dog Human Pack. It's a backpack that fits both dogs and humans! Its ergonomic, teardrop design strategically places weight over the shoulders and off your dog's belly. For you, this pack comfortably fits over your shoulder. This flexible design works for both you and your dog.

Speaking of sharing, how about a travel water bottle that you can share with your pet that allows you to share the water but not the slobber. This specialty product is uniquely designed and features a separate water supply for your pet, while giving you a straw for your own drink of fresh (slobberless) water.

The 3-in-1 pet car seat is a favorite. It's a pet car seat, a suitcase, and a pet bed all rolled into one unit. As a pet car seat it elevates your pet 10" so they do some sightseeing. As a suitcase, it serves as a roomy storage device that lets you organize your pet's traveling gear. Then fold out the car seat and it's a portable pet bed.

Pet products for the birds? Now you can bring your winged companion along with a vest styled bird carrier. It fits like a vest with padded shoulder straps and it's designed to evenly distribute the weight of your fine-feathered friend. This bird carrier also has a zippered top, a perch and zippered opening in the bottom with a removable tray for easy cleaning.

With 65 million dogs, 77 million cats, 16 million small animals, 17 million birds, 9 million reptiles, 7 million saltwater fish, 185 million freshwater fish and on and on… American's strong bond with their pets, and the array of products they pamper them with, is sure to keep growing.

For more information on these and other specialty pet products, visit http://www.tripswithpets.com.

Trips with Pets, Inc. is the premiere online source for pet friendly travel, offering resources for pet travelers to ensure they are welcome, happy, and safe when traveling.

Contact: Tiffany Roe
tiffany@tripswithpets.com
207-767-1613




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