Are Pet Accessories Really Necessary?
The question as to whether pet accessories are really necessary has been debated and discussed over many years. Accessories which provide a pet with a more enjoyable life are argued to be necessities rather than fancy pet lover trends. Accessories which are mandatory in some cases, such as a leash, muzzle or traveling box rightfully have their place on the accessory counters of all reputable pet stores.
For most people however an accessory is seen more as items which are in some ways associated with treats for their animal, such as exercising equipment for dogs, wheels for hamsters and scratching posts for cats. There is a fine line between what is deemed as necessary and what some people deem as unnecessary extravagances!
In the UK all dogs should be kept on a lead in public places and whilst there is no specific law saying that it is mandatory, many local authorities do display notices requesting that dogs be leashed at all times. Breeds of dogs which are classified as dangerous will need to be wearing a muzzle if they are taken into public places and without owners will be breaking the law.
Traveling boxes are available for every type of pet imaginable, from horse boxes to carry boxes for cats and pet rodents, and whilst these many not be mandatory they do make life much easier when an animal has to be taken to the vet or to shows.
Accessories such as over the counter style treatments for ticks, fleas and worms may also be classed as accessories and these are required if an animal is to be kept in good health. Usually they are placed on accessory stands in veterinary surgeries in the UK to remind people that owning a pet is not all play and fun, the responsibility of caring and maintaining the health of a pet is essential if the pet is to thrive in its environment.
Pet stores in the high street and online also sell various treatments for pets such as shampoos, worming treatments, along with all manner of toys which are produced to make your pets life more fun and enjoyable!
Other types of accessories include coats for animals, particularly dogs, which many people view as unnecessary, however dogs with specific medical conditions or have thin natural fur may need a coat if they are to be exercised in all weather conditions in the UK. Fancy extras such as plastic boots are down to each individual pet owners taste!
One of the largest growing accessory ranges is those which are designed for pets at Christmas! Cats and dogs wearing Santa hats are particularly popular with ‘stockings’ full of pet treats exceeding sales of over 300,000 last year alone!
Whether you see pet accessories as an essential part of caring for your pet or merely as a luxury which is only a passing fad, is down to individual preferences at the end of the day! And whilst many people are cutting back to meet end meet during the recession, the sales of pet accessories continues to be a strong and steady growth area.