When the economy sours, sales of frivolous, unnecessary products generally plummet. Of course, that trend doesn’t apply to things like the Snuggie for Dogs.
The economic downturn had zero effect on the pet and pet product industry, which saw unprecedented growth throughout the recession.
At least that’s what a recent study from the non-profit organization American Pet Products Association (APPA) found.
The study found that pet owners have absolutely no qualms spending on their beloved creatures in a down economy.
Some of the more notable (and slightly absurd) findings from the study:
- 16% of dog owners and 13% cat owners said their pet’s medical treatment would take priority over their own
- almost 10% of pet owners reported hosting parties for their dogs, and
- Doggie-gift spending jumped to $73 million last year — a 30% increase.