There are 69 million households in the United States that call a pet part of the family, according to a 2006 survey by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA). These pet owners know how hard it can be to find the perfect accessories and gifts for their special friends. Whether you are looking for a practical dog house, pet-proof seat covers for your car or a Halloween costume for your cat, shopping online is the best way to score unique pet products at reasonable prices. With just a few clicks, the Internet will help you find everything you need to care for your pets and, in the process, you’ll discover a community of people who are as passionate about their pets as you.
APPMA estimates that in 2006, $38.4 billion will be spent in the U.S. on pet products. The following tips will help you hone in on pet gifts that can be fun for your pet, while also providing you value:
Identify Your Pet’s Needs
Everyone has seen a dog chase after his own tail, going round and round in circles until he gives up. You can avoid a similar chase of your own by taking the time to consider what products your pet will actually use, as well as what would make your life easier as a pet owner. With Yahoo! Shopping’s (http://shopping.yahoo.com) integrated ratings and reviews, you’ll be able to see what other pet owners thought about a particular product or merchant. This will help you make smart decisions about all the must-haves for your pet, whether it is a puppy, a parrot or a komodo dragon.
Broaden Your Horizons
The Internet has opened up a whole world of pet products you never even imagined existed, from designer pet umbrellas, specialized spa treatments, unique detergent for washing pet clothes, pet first aid kits and even a nest for your pet rock. Visit the Yahoo! Shoposphere from Yahoo! Shopping, where merchandise is sorted into lists by members of an online community and discussed in a blog-like fashion, giving you insight into how the self-replenishing food bowl or the cat hammock came in handy for other pet owners.
Make Your Pet Part
of the Family
Great pet gifts can be enjoyed by pets and families together. There are several ways to maximize the family fun factor of giving your pet a gift. You can have the present wrapped for a child to open or pick presents that will make for interactive fun, such as a fetch ball or other pet toy that requires human interaction.
The Internet provides an easy way to gather new ideas, find the best bargains and indulge your beloved pets-all without leaving the comforts of home.
Give your pet a present with help from the Web.
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