Pets - a profitable business

At one time dogs were valued only for the work they performed - herding cattle and sheep, hunting, guarding etc.. Now they are seen as companions and even family members. They fill a void for some whose children have gone, those who find themselves alone after a break-up or divorce and even as practice for couples thinking of having a baby.

There is no denying it, the powerful bond between human and dog has never been stronger. According to the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association’s (APPMA) 2007/2008 National Pet Owner Survey, pet ownership is at it’s highest level ever with 71.1 million households in the U.S. owning at least 1 pet. This is up from 6.9 million in 2004. These numbers explain the explosion of doggie daycares, gourmet treat makers, pet boutiques, pet sitters, obedience trainers, pet salons, Doggie Day Spas offering massages for pets, custom built dog houses, pet hotels and poop scooping companies.

Spending on our furry companions is predicted to hit $50 billion annually by the end of the decade, according to APPMA. Peopel take their pets into consideration when making home purchasess and improvements and even where they will go on vacation. They choose to add lower windows so their pets can see out easier, doggie doors, cat walk installation and more. When purchasing a home they look for a nice sized backyard preferable fenced in, a neighborhood condusive to dog walks, the proximity of doggie parks and ammenities. When it comes to vacations those hotels that cater to pets is the one that is in demand.

If you have ever considered carving a niche in the pet industry, now is the time to go for it. If you already have a pet related business now is the time to add to your product/service line. Not in the pet industry but own a business? Get creative and make your company pet friendly. You will see a growth not only in your bottom line but in your life as well.