[caption id="attachment_47987" align="alignleft" width="200"] Image: Judi Mcmearty[/caption]
We know that Americans love their pets and treat them as family members, but it may come as a surprise to know that in this struggling economy, pet owners are expected to spend more on their furry friends than ever. According to statistics shared by Petfinder.com:
- Ninety percent of all pet owners consider their pet a member of their family.
- Two-thirds of dog owners and 58% of cat owners say they give their pets presents at Christmas, spending $5 billion on their furry family members.
- Stockings are hung with care for their pets by 40% of dog owners and 37% of cat owners.
- One-quarter of all pet owners sign their pet’s name on their holiday cards. Two-thirds include news about their pets and 36% include a photo of their pets in their holiday cards.
Although we are spending more on our pets, sometimes the best gifts are free. Consider giving your pet what they really want - more of you.
Dogs Love:
- Belly Rubs
- Holiday Walks
- Extra play time
- Brushing
Cats Love:
- Scratching (especially on the head)
- Playing with paper balls (wrapping paper makes a great ball)
- Investigating (empty shopping bags make wonderful places to explore)
- Laps (cats love to sleep on your lap)
Even if you have already purchased that perfect gift for your furry friend, consider spending more time with them; it's what they really want this holiday season.
Upcoming Events:
December 28th – Braxton’s will host a meet and greet with some of the adoptable animals from the Animal Coalition of DelCo from 10-2. For more information, click here.