As pets continue to have a growing place in our hearts, businesses have began to understand the power of pets and embrace pet culture. People don’t have as much time as they used to, and leaving their pets at home all day isn’t always the picked choice. After all, these pets aren’t just ‘man’s best friend’ anymore, they’re our ‘fur babies.’ In 2018, Americans spent $72 billion on their pets. Pet parents are willing to sacrifice and splurge for their fur babies. Showing that your business is pet-friendly may encourage more people to go out and visit your business, allowing them to spend the necessary time with their pets while getting their shopping done.

When the company, Casper, noticed how much dogs loved their new mattresses, they adapted their design into a dog bed. Chaco and ROK Straps both made durable leashes and collars that match their human-product counterparts. For the especially stylish pets, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, and Coach make high-fashion designs for pets. Businesses don’t have to sell products to show their appreciation of pets either. Just as we all enjoy a nice bite to eat somewhere new, our pets do too. After a long day of shopping, pet owners can bring their pets to get a Pup Cup from Dairy Queen, or Puppiccino from Starbucks, or even a Pup Patty from In-N-Out. We’re willing to splurge on our pets, with 76% of millennials – and 50% of baby boomers – being more likely to splurge on their pets than themselves. A growing number of retailers are understanding that customers are willing to spend more time and money when it comes to their pets, welcoming pets to their stores as well as outdoor patios and drive thrus.

The power of pets in our economy is strong and taking advantage of opportunities in pet culture can help build business. When companies support the topics that customers care about, people feel 92% more positive, 87% more trusting, and 88% more loyal towards that business. Pets have always been our best friends, but now more than ever they can also be your business partner. Learn more about the power of pets and how a business can become pet-friendly