The days when our pooches needed only a simple leash, a bowl of kibble, and a cozy bed are well behind us. Today, pet owners are going above and beyond to ensure their furry friends don’t just feel like animals in their homes but beloved family members. This trend of treating pets like people, often referred to as the “humanisation of pets,” is on the rise, and it’s transforming the way we care for our four-legged friends.
According to Dr Teagan Lever, Head Vet at Pet Circle: “Pets have now become part of our family, so we are seeing a lot of human product trends transition into the pet industry. Many pet parents are also beginning to prioritise the health and happiness of their pets, even over their own, and design their homes and lives around their furry friends, which is reflected in the emergence of trends like barkitecture and catitecture.”
Prioritising pet health …
More pet owners are focusing on premium pet food. With culinary experts crafting gourmet meals and treats tailored to pets’ tastes and dietary needs. According to Dr Teagan, “We have seen a 17% increase in pet supplement purchases since January 2023. And a 70% increase compared to September 2021.”
Furthermore, just as dietary restrictions and food allergies affect humans, pets are also experiencing these issues. The growing popularity of single-protein diets highlights the effort pet owners are making to cater to their pets’ specific dietary needs. ” Hemp products, such as those by Hemp Pet, are also becoming increasingly popular for pets as well,” adds Dr Tegan.
… and happiness
Pet owners are also going to great lengths to ensure the emotional well being of their pets. With the increased demand for products and solutions that address anxiety in both dogs and cats reflecting this trend. The post pandemic return to office of many pet owners has amplified the need for services that address separation anxiety. For this reason, there has been a rise in doggy day cares, puppy yoga glasses and even spa retreats. All designed to spoil furry friends with pet friendly massages, facials, and pampering treatments that rival their human counterparts.
Designer dog accessories
A growing number of pet owners are opting to adorn their four legged friends with branded bling. From bespoke collars, luxurious leashes, and even exquisite jewellery, more owners than ever are elevating their pets’ style to match their own. “Some of our most popular sellers are the premium accessories by brands like the new FuzzYardLife range and Pupstyle,” says Dr Teagan.
Eco-friendly furry choice
Environmental consciousness is not limited to humans! According to Pet Circle, more pet parents are choosing eco friendly options for their furry companions, including biodegradable poop bags and litter.
Premium pet furnishings
Pet owners are no longer settling for simple, basic beds for their barking friends. Instead, they’re investing in what’s been coined as “barkitecture” – pet friendly design and premium pet furniture that focuses on comfort and style. Pieces that allow pets to lounge on custom-made velvet beds, sleep in intricately designed pet palaces, and relax in hammocks that blend seamlessly with their owners’ decor, ensure that pets can truly rest in the lap of luxury. “The All For Paws’ Skywalk range – which are climbing platforms you can put on your walls for cats – are an excellent example of this trend,” says Dr Tegan.
Caught on canine camera
Finally, the rise of professional pet photography businesses is a testament to the importance of pets in our lives. In fact, pet owners are willing to spend thousands of dollars on personalised photoshoots to create cherished images of their furry family members. Or alternatively, immortalise them through commissioned paintings and sculptures to capture their unique personalities in artistic masterpieces.
Similarly, according to Dr Tegan, more people than ever are investing in Smart cameras keep an eye on their pets and even feed them treats remotely. “Two of our best selling pet cameras are Enabot, which is a robot cat companion with wheels, and Petcube Bites for dogs, which has a treat dispenser.”
Want in on other emerging pet trends? Check out Australia’s First National Pet Show, which will be taking place Saturday 18 November and Sunday 19 November at Sydney Showground.
