Pet Pampering

Americans spend nearly $41 billion on pets--more than the gross domestic product of all but 64 countries in the world. Annual spending is expected to hit $52 billion in the next two years, according to consumer research company Packaged Facts.

The pet industry is the seventh largest retail industry in the U.S., exceeding the jewelry, candy, toy and hardware industries. After consumer electronics, pet care is the fastest growing category in retailing, expanding about 6% a year.

In fact, a 2006 survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturer's Association showed an astounding 92% of pet owners spent the same or more on their pets during the most recent recession period.

This consumer demand has spawned a myriad of boutique-style pet businesses that have capitalized on this emerging trend of pet pampering. Pets can enjoy acupressure, reiji and pet massage for the stress-induced muscle tension in Felix to hydro-surge and oatmeal spa treatments and aromatherapy.