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Gone are the days when dogs spent their lives chained up in the yard with an old bone, a dirty blanket and a lukewarm bowl of water. Pet Owners today, have raised the bar on pet pampering to the point where animals in North America live better lives than human beings in other parts of the world.
Dogs can now boast full wardrobes, with just the right outfit for every occasion. And don’t forget the accessories! Gourmet meals and dishes, massage and luxury weekends at pet-only hotels are just the tip of the iceberg.
These days, lucky dogs can crash at the Sarasota Ritz Carlton for $125, and "for another $220, the Ritz throws in gourmet dog biscuits, an in-room pet massage, a choice of nail buffing or nail polish, a souvenir photo, a brisk walk over Sarasota's scenic Ringling Bridge and a gourmet meal of organic stew and designer water served on a silver tray." Even dogs with less disposable income can afford heated pet beds, goggles and nutraceuticals.
During 2006, U.S. pet owners spent roughly $38.4 billion on pets, up from $23 billion in 1998. And worth every penny perhaps, when you consider that the health benefits of pets are well documented: numerous studies indicate that pets help lower blood pressure, prevent heart disease, help lower health care costs and fight depression and loneliness.
(brandsizzle)
References: brandsizzle
Filed In:
lifestyle,
pets
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