Pet Business News
New Report Says Pet Industry Growth Set To Continue
Pets come in all shapes and sizes, but the one constant is the bond between pets and their owners. In fact, 76% of dog or cat owners consider their 4-legged companions to be part of the family. This closeness creates marketing and sales opportunities that go far beyond basics such as food to include apparel, toys, treats, vet care and grooming, just to name a few. According to Mintel, the pet industry is expected to maintain a steady pace of growth, increasing by 33% over the next five years.
"To maintain and continue such strong sales is an impressive feat in our tough economy and truly speaks to owners' commitment to their pets and manufacturers' ability to develop products that resonate with pet owners," notes Fiona O'Donnell, senior analyst at Mintel. "We are noticing that innovations in the pet industry are mirroring innovations in human markets and since many owners consider pets as family members, this is not surprising."
Functional foods that have a great taste and also provide health benefits have hit a chord with Americans in the past several years, so it only makes sense that owners would want the same fare for their pets. According to the Mintel Global New Product Database (GNPD), pet food that offers a "functional" claim has increased by 130% from 2006 to 2010.
Innovations in the pet industry go beyond the food aisle into lifestyle products that reflect the owner's personality and interests. Martha Stewart has developed an exclusive line of pet accessories for PetSmart that are said to be developed with "both the pets and owners in mind." In addition to supplies and toys, the product line includes apparel, which may appeal to the 9% of Mintel respondents who say they occasionally dress up their dog or cat. Pet-friendly vehicle features also appeal to the 28% of dog owners who claim to take their pets on vacations with them, if they are driving.
"I don't expect pet innovation to slow down any time soon," adds Fiona O'Donnell. "Despite the difficult economy, 50% of pet owners make unplanned toy and treat purchases for their pets and another 16% say they have cut back on extra household expenses in order to afford pet-related care…showing the true commitment of pet-parents."
So, who's got a better life, canines or kitties? According to Mintel, 55% of dog owners buy unplanned treats compared to only 37% of cat owners. Meanwhile, 42% of dog owners take lots of pictures of their pet versus 33% of cat-parents. And, nearly one-quarter of dog families have stayed home from work or school with a sick pet as opposed to 14% for their feline counterpart.
Pet Friendly Hotel Scottsdale Arizona
In the latest of our pet friendly business profiles we take a look at Hotel Indigo Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Inspired. Intelligent. Indulgent. This luxury Scottsdale Arizona hotel is bound to delight even the most discriminating traveler, whether visiting Scottsdale for business or leisure! This is where your dog and you will have fantastic vacation.
Pet Friendly Hotel Texas
In the latest of our pet friendly business profiles we take a look at The Ambassador Hotel in Amarillo, Texas.
Pet Friendly Hotel Montrreal
In the latest of our pet friendly business profiles we take a look at Hôtel des Seigneurs in Quebec, Canada.
Hôtel des Seigneurs offers a welcoming and refreshing environment featuring two gorgeous interior gardens – an oasis from the hustle and bustle of everyday life where your dog and you will have a fantastic vacation. Cascading fountains, a relaxing fish pond, and plants help create this unique tropical oasis.
Pet Friendly Ventura Hotel & Suites Mexico City
In the latest of our pet friendly business profiles we take a look at Ventura Hotel & Suites By Dominion in Mexico City.
With a modern concept that mixes the best of a luxury hotel with the comfort and atmosphere of home, Ventura Hotel and Suites by Dominion is the ideal place for short and long term stays in the northwestern area of Mexico City, whether on business or leisure. Ventura hotel will take care of everything from cleaning your suite to washing and ironing your clothes during your stay. Experience Ventura Hotel and Suites by Dominion, a whole new concept in Mexico City
Pet Friendly Hotel South Bend Indiana
In the latest of our pet friendly business profiles we take a look at Quality Inn & Suites – South Bend in Indiana.
Pet Friendly Quality Hotel Bradenton Florida
In the latest of our pet friendly business profiles we take a look at The Quality Inn North Hotel Bradenton in Florida.
The Quality Inn North Hotel, a Bradenton hotel near the Sarasota Bradenton Airport and the city of Sarasota where your dog and you will have a fantastic vacation. Additional Florida area attractions include Sarasota Jungle Gardens and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Visitors will enjoy several shops within walking distance. Outdoor activities, including saltwater fishing and swimming, are offered in the surrounding area. Several restaurants and cocktail lounges are located nearby.
Pet Friendly Howard Johnson Boutique Hotel British Columbia
In the latest of our pet friendly business profiles we take a look at Howard Johnson Boutique Hotel in British Columbia.
An exquisite boutique hotel, located in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The Howard Johnson Boutique Hotel has been completely and beautifully renovated, making it one of the best accommodation destinations in downtown Vancouver for travelers from all over the world where you and your dog will have a fantastic vacation.
Pet Friendly Sheraton Gateway Hotel Georgia
In the latest of our pet friendly business profiles we take a look at Sheraton Gateway Hotel Atlanta Airport in Georgia.
Sheraton Gateway Hotel Atlanta Airport is conveniently (and quietly) situated a half-mile from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) and minutes from downtown Atlanta and the city's biggest attractions where you and your dog will have a fantastic vacation. As one of the premier ATL airport hotels, guests are welcome to enjoy a warm lobby, indoor and outdoor pools and fitness center. Plus, be sure to take advantage of our complimentary airport shuttle service. The hotel is situated on extensive green space perfect to sit outside or take a walk with “man’s best friend”.
Pet Friendly Comfort Inn Hotel Indiana
In the latest of our pet friendly business profiles we take a look at Comfort Inn Bedford in Indiana.
The newly opened pet friendly Comfort Inn® hotel is conveniently located less than five miles from the Land of Limestone Museum and Bluespring Caverns, a beautiful park and cave system where you and your dog will have a fantastic vacation. This Bedford, IN hotel is less than 30 miles from points of interest like Indiana University, Paoli Peaks alpine ski area and Spring Mill State Park.