Pet fashion drives a booming industry in the U.S. – Scot Scoop News

Every year, pet owners in the United States spend an estimated total of $150 billion or more on their pets, with $5 billion allocated for pet clothing and costumes. From a niche novelty to a billion-dollar trend, many people wonder what explains the rise in spending on pets, especially during holidays.
Ingrid Chu, vice president of research insights at the American Pet Products Association (APPA), explains how the humanization of pets influences the spending of pet owners on them.
“We’re seeing a trend where pet owners are seeing their pets more than just a pet; they’re part of the family,” Chu said.
According to a national survey by the APPA, nearly nine in 10 dog owners purchased gifts for their pets in the past year. Dogs received an average of six gifts each year. While most of these purchases occur around Christmas and birthdays, Halloween has also become an increasingly popular holiday for pet spending.
Many Americans without children are channeling their nurturing instincts toward their pets, treating them like family members and investing in clothing, toys, and special treats, according to Chu.
