Our pets are our family.  We rely on them for comfort during challenging times, laughter during playful times, and companionship during lonely or family bonding times.  One thing is for sure, we are beginning to take our pets everywhere with us, whether it is to run a quick errand or even take a long vacation.  More and more restaurants are allowing pets in the outdoor dining areas and some even offer pet friendly cuisine prepared by the chef!  Airlines are easing up on regulations about pets in the cabin, hotels are adopting a pet friendly policy, and local pet service providers are stepping up to take full advantage of visiting pets in the area hotels.

Here is an interesting statistic provide to us by the APPA National Pet Owners Survey 2011-2012.  “Overall, dogs go with their owners an average of 2.2 times per week when running their errands.”  In another recent survey, it was reported that 42% of pet owners travel with their pet at least annually and an overwhelming 90% of the participants reported they would change their plans to better accommodate for their pets!  Incredible!

So, what does this mean for our pet business owners out there?  It means we all need to figure out creative ways to cater to this growing trend of pet and pet parent travel.  Maybe we need to look at being pet parent travel agents, working with our local hotels for out of town guests…offering pick up and delivery or discounted day care programs for visiting “out of towner” pets, or maybe even selling travel packs complete with items that make the pet’s travel and the pet parents preparation for travel easier for both.

Till next time….