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A expanding admiration for pets has Americans buying increasingly inventive pet goods, from self-washing, toilet bowl-shaped cat litter boxes and dog strollers to tennis ball-launching doggie golf-club drivers, treat launchers and higher-tech clippers. These hot new merchandise and hundreds of others were unveiled at International Pet Expo, the pet industry's biggest annual trade display in the world. Figures from the American Pet Goods Producers Association (APPMA) display spending on pets is at an all-time higher-an estimated $38.four billion this year.

So just where are these billions going?

• $15.two billion for food

• $9.three billion for supplies and over-the-counter medicines

• $9.four billion for veterinarian care

• $1.8 billion for reside animal purchases

• $2.7 billion for other solutions.

And it is not just the fundamentals. APPMA's National Pet Owners Survey shows 27 percent of dog owners and 13 percent of cat owners get their pets birthday presents, and 55 percent of dog owners and 37 percent of cat owners buy their pets holiday presents.

All this spending and pampering has prompted ingenuity ranging from low-upkeep aquariums, matching sunglasses for dogs and their owners and spa treatments for your pet, to laser cat toys and adjustable heating and massaging dog beds.

Sector experts point to a continued trend in the humanization of pet products. "Each baby boomers and young specialists who are delaying obtaining households in favor of careers are turning to pets to fill the void at residence," stated APPMA President Bob Vetere. "With these families' greater-than-average disposable incomes, their pets are enjoying elaborate higher-finish and high-tech goods as nicely as innovative devices designed for convenience for the pet owner."

Pet owners report in APPMA's National Pet Owners Survey that they have a specific bond with their pets and consider them a best friend, a companion or like a youngster or member of their loved ones.

Vetere likens it to his expertise with his golden Lab, Dakota. "I can sit and speak to him and inform him any issue I have and he just sits there with his tongue hanging out, smiling at me, just waiting for me to finish. It really is like, 'OK, you really feel much better now? Let's go outdoors and play.'

"We've come a lengthy way in terms of how we view and treat our pets," concluded Vetere. "Thankfully, for pets and folks, there is nonetheless plenty of opportunity for wholesome growth." http://linkedin.com/in/simonarichards