As part of Pets Best Insurance’s recent focus groups on pet owners, we determined if we were meeting their needs and if they understood the value of pet insurance. Based on the results of the study, observations made from years of veterinary medicine and pet insurance experience were confirmed. However, many pet owners also believe myths about pet insurance due to misconceptions and incorrect information. Our focus group encountered and dispelled the following myths.
Products for luxury pets.
The luxury pet products industry has seen the most growth in recent years and continues to lead in the sale of pet merchandise. Pet owners are prepared to spend big bucks for the products they want for their pets. They tend to be wealthy consumers. Additionally, they typically purchase an ensemble of pet accessories. The pet sweater must match both the carrier and the owner’s clothing. A pet owner’s shopping list isn’t limited to clothing items – there are now $430 indoor potties, $30 perfume, climate-controlled pet carriers, jeweled pet collars (with real jewels), $225 trench coats, designer pet beds, dog shoes, Halloween costumes, Zen dining tables, dog spas, and even doggie nail polish!
Traveling pets. Have pets will travel is the mantra of many pet owners.
To do this in comfort and style requires the right kind of products and accessories. Climate controlled pet carriers; pet booster seats and pet strollers enable that traveling pet to ride in style.
Eco-friendly pets.
Eco-friendly and organic products have been a huge influence on pet products sales in the past couple years. This trend is continuing, in fact the largest growth sector in several pet product categories has been that of eco-friendly and organic products. If you sell pet products you must give your buyers some eco-friendly versions of popular pet products.
Exotic pets.
While dogs and cats are certainly the most popular pets, we’re also seeing a trend towards ownership of more exotic pets. Today there is a demand for products for birds, reptiles, fish, ferrets, mice, rats, hamsters, gerbils, pot belly pigs, rabbits, chinchillas, aquatic turtles and more.
Fashion pets.
Today’s pets are so well dressed with coordinating accessories that they could easily grace the cover of Pet Vogue magazine. Pet owner fashionistas are snapping up designer style pet products at a frenzied pace. Pink-a-holic pet? There’s a slew of hot pink fashion pet products out there. More into the preppy look? Outfit your pet and his products so he looks straight out of the Ivy League. Is Bowser a rock- and-roll dog? He’ll look and act the part with today’s pet fashion products. Pets and fashion have merged in a big way!
Here are the product categories:
Pet products are available in literally hundreds of categories. Here are five umbrella categories that offer plenty of opportunities to drill down and find subniches and microniches.
Transport for pets
There’s no stopping our furry friends! In addition to pet strollers, pet carriers, and pet booster seats, all of which help your pet reach their destination safely, soundly, and in style. There are 16 reasons you should get your pet a pet stroller, according to a pet lover’s blog. Ramps and stairs for older pets can make them more comfortable if they have health problems. While your pet rides around the town, you can keep your car clean and fresh with automotive liners and barriers.
Housing and home decor for pets.
Pet homes, beds, kitty condos, pet couches, chairs, pillows, and the like are some of the most popular pet products. Home décor needs of a happy and well-nested pet include blankets, bowls, and feeders.
Accessories and clothing for pets.
The market for pet accessories is endless! Dog toys, grooming accessories, pet shoes, pet eyewear, pet safety products, grooming products, art work, pet treadmills, pet games, and pet jewelry are just a few of the products that pet owners are purchasing today.
Health care for pets.
The sale of pet health products is on the rise, as pet owners are concerned about their pets’ health. With pet treadmills, grooming products, lotions and potions, shampoos and nutritional supplements, people are taking just as much care of their pets’ health as they do of their own.
Human products made from pet products.
In general, pet owners like to purchase both products for their pets and products for themselves that represent their pets. An executive in Chicago who owns two Golden Retrievers is 38 years old. She has a collection of Golden Retriever-related artwork, figurines, t-shirts, books, and jewelry that fill her home. The same is true for pet lovers who cannot own pets due to allergies or logistical reasons, but still want to feel connected with a pet.