Cover Illustratin by Charlotte Shen
The last time we talked about pets here on the myHomeBody Blog, we delved into the history of pets and how they affect us as people. We who have had pets in our lives all agree that something happens when we adopt a member of another species into our home and family.
It’s not (not all will agree) the same kind of love we feel for our human kids, siblings and parents, but it is love nonetheless. Much as some of us do with our kids, and perhaps more so grandkids, we sometimes tend to express that love by showering our pets with treats and other gifts that we imagine might boost their happiness and, just maybe, make them love US a little more!
So today we’re going to take a look at some of the things we like to buy for our pets, with an overview of the pet products market. What are some of the must-have pet items and trends, and what are they saying about how we relate to our pets? Let’s take a look!
You may have guessed that pets, in addition to being our best buds, are also big business. However did you know that we spend almost 100 billion dollars per year? According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), that’s exactly the case. So what are we spending all of that dough on?
Not surprisingly, the largest chunk of our spending goes to pet food and treats, followed by health care.
Then there’s the fun and sometimes wacky world of pet supplies, grooming tools and gadgets, some designed for Fido’s happiness and some with our convenience and peace of mind the motivating design factors.
Here’s a look at some of the products that caught our eye:
The Swiss Army Knife of Leashes
From Kickstarter we liked the GogoLeash, multi-functional dog handles with built-in LED, water tank, poop bag storage and TWO training modes with a new training collar. I can’t count how many times I’ve been caught without a water source, poop bag, or a light to find said poop, while out with my canine. Check out their video here.
Dripless Water Bowls
Maybe it’s just me, but...apparently not. Not that my dog seems to mind, but I’ve often been frustrated to find that, between my wavering delivery hand and my pooch’s sloppy chugging style, more water often ends up on the floor than either in my dog or her bowl. Here's a cool-looking one we came across. Great for the car!
Board Games for Cats?
Well, as a non-cat owner, I never would have thought of this – what do you think #homebodycatnation? It certainly got plenty of funding on Kickstarter, but – would you buy one?
Treat-Holding Cell Phone attachments for Selfies!
Ever have trouble getting your canine or feline companion’s attention for that perfect selfie? I sure have! Well, here’s a solution so obvious I can’t believe I never thought of it!
FLEXY PAW, Selfies & Portraits of your Dogs and Cats
These are just a few of the trendy ways to shell out your hard-earned cash to make life with your pets a little more perfect. Have you tried any of these offerings? What did you think? What’s a pet supply, tool or gadget that you couldn’t live without now that you have it? Comment below!
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