"America's Growing Pet Economy"

[envisionary333]

America's growing pet economyÂ* - BusinessWeek Online - MSNBC.com

I think it's great that people are investing more time and money into caring for their pets, but some people are going too far! They are not miniature humans, they don't need clothing or strollers or diet pills or "testicular implants." Scary.

[heatherbunnie]

"In-store grooming and other services have helped PetSmart Inc. add $450 million in additional sales this year."

Too bad these are the companies that are making all the money. I agree with you that some people go way to far! That testicular implant is ridiculous. And braces to fix a dog's teeth? That seems cruel, I remember my braces hurt so bad when I had them. And really, I doubt the dog cares whether is has crooked teeth. Sounds like something people would do for showing (that goes for the implant too).

[envisionary333]

Oops! I posted this in the wrong forum. It should be in the "In the News" forum, sorry!

[Ly&Pigs]

It's ok, I moved it.

[crazywiggy]

This is one of my pet hates (excuse the pun!). I love the idea that we are improving our pets lives but in so many cases people aren't actually doing their pets any good at all.

Like people who "spoil" their piggy with yoghurt drops but keep them alone in a tiny cage.
What bugs me most is celebrity types who buy expensive puppies from pet stores and claim they love them to bits, but dress them up in ridiculous uncomfortable clothes and carry them round in a handbag.
I don't care that its a "toy" dog - its not actually a toy! Even a chihuahua wants to run and play and sniff things and cock its leg up lamposts...

In my opinion if you want to spoil your pet, do something that it will really appreciate - don't spend loads of money of stuff to make YOU feel better!

(Sorry - rant over )

[diane]

I make my chihuahua wear sweaters in the winter, but out of necessity. It snows here and I don't want my little guy to get to chilled. I do agree with that to many people go over board with the cloths and such. My dog hates the sweaters so I only make him wear it when he goes outside to do business. And it is really bad for a "toy" dogs health to always be carried. It helps them out so much to let them walk around like we do.

[crazywiggy]

Diane - just want to clarify I have no problem with putting coats or jumpers on dogs to keep them warm, its only those stupid outfits like the celebs use that have no purpose other than to look ridiculous that I object to.

[envisionary333]

I agree. What annoys me is the latest trend of treating toy dogs like they are human babies, or some kind of trendy accessory. I've seen all kinds of "doggy strollers," doggy hoodies, boots, and lots of other ridiculous things like that.

[diane]

I totally agree with everything you guys are saying. I don't even think my dogs would allow me to put them in a doggy stroller. The whole point of walking the dog is for their health anyway.

I guess one plus out of this new craze is that people are taking better care of their animals like grooming and check ups and some people are even becoming aware of what is in their pets food.

envisionary333 I agree with you on people treating their animals like human babies.

[WheeksUnlimited]

I am in agreement. I spoil my dogs, but with attention, love and play. They are my "kids", however I don't treat them like human kids, except that they trained well in manners.