Why do pet stores sell more dog-related merchandise than cat-related merchandise? Some people view their dogs as members of their family and consider buying products for them as part of that bond. Regardless of the reason, there are certain things that you should look for in a pet store. These things include the quality of products, the amount of money they charge, and their guarantee. Read on to learn more about these factors.
A good store will disclose the origin of the animals they sell. Ask the supplier and breeder of the animal you are considering purchasing. Check to see whether the animals are well-fed, happy, and unstressed. Also, ask about health records. Those are all indicators of a quality pet store. And remember that a good store should have a return policy and health guarantees.
A significant reason that pet stores carry more dog-oriented products is the growing trend of humanizing pets. Statistics from 2018 show that 35.7 million Americans were living alone, which represents 28% of all households. That means that many more people are turning to their pets for companionship – a quality that is hard to come by with human company. And this trend is likely to continue as people live longer, alone.
While the pet industry is remarkably resilient and relatively resistant to economic headwinds, not all players are immune. But in general, retailers are responding to consumer demand for high-end pet products, even if that means higher prices. Moreover, the popularity of dog toys has been rising for several years now. Cat toys, on the other hand, have been increasing since the recession hit in 2008.
