photo credit: BL1961

In my article “Pets Are Big Business,” I discuss the trends that make pet products and services such a great opportunity for entrepreneurs: America is a nation of animal lovers, and pets are the new status symbols; a well cared-for pet is a sign of achievement.

Not only do we have more pets per household then ever before; additional trends in pet demographics create new niches for pet products and services. In particular, “senior pets” are carving out a niche of their own. Consider:

–Pets are living longer than ever before. This is a self-perpetuating cycle: pets receive better care; they live longer; older pets require specialized products and services.

–People are more likely than they used to be to adopt older pets; therefore animal shelters and rescue organizations are more likely to keep these pets available for adoption rather than euthanize them.

–No-kill shelters, unheard-of a few years ago, are increasingly common and are also more likely to keep older pets for adoption (as well as pets with other special needs).

This trend toward an older pet population creates the need for a whole new line of pet products and services. Think of the possibilities:

–Heated beds to keep elderly pets warm at night.

–Special furniture, ramps, and steps for pets who can’t climb as well as they used to.

–Pet food that is formulated for less-active pets and is easier to chew.

–Doggy and kitty day care and home visitation for older and special-needs pets.

–Buggies and strollers for less-mobile small pets.

–Skin, ear, eye, and dental care products for older pets.

–Doggy sweaters and jackets to keep less-active pets warm.

Pets are big business indeed, and older pets and special-needs pets present a special area of opportunity as they become more numerous-and more respected-members of the pet population.

When you’ve decided which product or service for older pets lights your entrepreneurial fire, you’ll need to find a marketing expert who shares your passion for pets. You deserve success for your devotion to this special niche!

Lisa J. Lehr is a freelance copywriter specializing in direct response and marketing collateral, with a special interest in the health, pets, specialty foods, and inspirational/motivational/self-help niches. She has a degree in biology, has worked in a variety of fields including pharmaceuticals and teaching, and has volunteered for many causes including special-needs kids and literacy. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, art, music, outdoor exercise, and all things Celtic and Renaissance.

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