Loving Pet Parents May Save The Economy
November 11th, 2008
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I came across this article and thought PC readers would find it interesting. Despite the current economy, it appears that doting animal owners aren't cutting back on their holiday spending for their pets.
In the article, it explains: "Experts say many pet owners are as dedicated to their animals as parents are to children." (Duh.) And that means were're willing to sacrifice on ourselves before trimming back on our four-leggeds.
I would certainly say that's true. I no longer purchase a pastry and coffee every morning--but I am willing to buy a Yoghund pack for Dakota and Meadow to snack on.
Says Carol Perkins, president and co-founder of Harry Barker, a Charleston, S.C.-based pet toy company whose sales are up 40 percent this year, "The dog goes to the vet first and the dog gets organic food. Maybe some people will cut back on a dog bed, but they'll still buy dog treats, toys and collars and leashes."
So do you agree? Will you continue to buy toys for your pets during this holiday season? Are you cutting back spending on your pets?
Comments
Hi Cherie, No, I won't be
Hi Cherie,
No, I won't be spending less this year on my 4 legged "kids". I, like you would rather cut back on something for myself. Since my husband and I don't have any 2 legged kids, I think it makes it easier to justify spending money on the dogs.
Do you have any plans to put together a list of great places to shop for pets?
Happy Holidays!
Lu, Sydney and Jackson
Hi gang--thanks for the
Hi gang--thanks for the reply. As of now, we don't have plans to put together a shopping guide. But feel free to post your favorites here. Take care.
November 13th, 2008 —
November 13th, 2008 — qubbie (not verified)
I will definitely be getting my pooches the best!
Of course I being the "Puppy Paws Baker" and all'
My girls get to do the quality control of the holiday biscuits right out of the ovens!
I have been baking "Puppy Paws" for 8 years now and am very lucky to have a fond following.
People have Always wanted the best for their pets as we do ourselves.
Treat your Pets as you would yourself!
Hugs & Tail Wags
"The Puppy Paws Baker"
Not buying "more" than
Not buying "more" than before, but not buying "less" than before & here's why:
I'm looking to adopt a new K-9 companion hopefully by Christmas, if not Thanksgiving so any $$ spent would already be "more". I have beds and a couple bins of equipment and toys from the previous dog. so I don't need to start from scratch.
I plan on buying high quality foods & treats plus and looking into the home-made as an investment in preventive care that parallels my own eating & food buying habits -- eat well, stay well...so would be more money up front but hopefully less money in the long run.
My new business is founded on go green/save green lifestyle choices. Walking the talk is part of the business model and marketing my new "image". Excessive amounts of any kind of stuff including chew toys & dog equipment is not part of the sustainable lifestyle but quality over quantity is.
Regardless, experience with my prevous dog showed quality time with long walks and plenty of play time wins over a pile of ignored toys any day....and probably better for both of us in physical and mental health.
Realistically, I'd rather bank that "spare" money in what amounts to a home-made doggie HSA.....'cause you know I'll need it sooner or later.