ROSEMONT, Ill. — Retailers may be worrying about the possibility of the worst fourth quarter in generations, but those in the pet-products industry are finding themselves in a veritable oasis among much of the gloom of American business. Companies that sell everything from organic dog treats to couture-inspired pet toys say business is up even as economic indicators show that shoppers are pinching pennies during one of the worst downturns in decades.
“I think they’re buying nice dog collars instead of remodeling their kitchen,” said Fiona Tavernier, whose Lollypadoodle business near San Francisco sells wool-stuffed dog toys.
Market researcher Euromonitor International puts this year’s animal expenditures at $23.9 billion. The group forecasts the segment will grow more than 13 percent by 2013.
“It’s definitely more resilient than most categories tied to discretionary spending,” Morningstar analyst R.J. Hottovy said. The Associated Press
