Are you looking to give your furry friend the very best life possible?
Pet accessories are one of the fastest growing pet industries right now. And for good reason. Pet parents everywhere have discovered new products that make their pets happier, healthier, and safer.
Here’s the thing…
Pet accessories can truly change the way you care for your pet. From innovative feeders to fashionable collars, there are products that are redefining pet care.
In this post we cover:
- Why Pet Accessories Matter More Than Ever
- Types of Innovative Accessories
- How to Choose the Right Products
- Tips on Making the Best Purchases
Why Pet Accessories Matter More Than Ever
Pet ownership is at an all-time high right now.
The American Pet Products Association reports 94 million U.S. households own at least one pet. This is a huge increase in the last few years. And all those pet parents want to improve their pet’s lives.
Fortunately, the pet accessories industry has responded with extraordinary innovation. The products of just ten years ago seem like science fiction when compared to the modern pet product industry. Whether you are shopping for designer dog collars with added functionality, or state of the art feeding systems with nutrition monitoring technology, the options are better than ever.
Pet accessories and pet care products have two primary functions. They keep your pets safe and healthy. And they make life easier and more enjoyable for pet parents.
Simple enough right?
Yet with so many products out there it can be hard to know what to trust. That is why it is important to first understand the different categories of innovative accessories.
Smart Technology for Pets
Pets and technology have a match made in heaven.
GPS trackers are a must for dog parents who want some extra peace of mind. These small devices attach to a collar and allow you to monitor your dog’s location in real-time. There are even devices that keep track of activity levels and sleep data.
Automatic feeders are a pet parents dream. With these products you can:
- Schedule precise feeding times
- Control portion sizes from a distance
- Monitor eating habits with companion apps
- Maintain consistent nutrition while away
Smart water fountains continuously filter and aerate water to keep it fresh. This also encourages pets to drink more. This is especially good for cats who often don’t drink enough water.
The best part about these smart products is the data they give you about your pet. Many sync to smartphone apps to provide detailed reports. This information can also help you catch potential health issues before they arise.
Comfort and Safety Products
Comfort is just as important as keeping pets well-fed.
Orthopaedic beds are very popular these days for senior dogs. They provide joint support and can help to alleviate arthritis pain. Memory foam options contour to the pet’s body for added support.
Safety accessories are another field where pet care has advanced. Reflective gear provides visibility during evening walks. Travel carriers and car harnesses keep pets safe when in vehicles.
Something that most pet parents do not realise…
It is the quality of everyday items like collars and leashes that really make a difference to your pet. A well designed collar distributes pressure across the neck. Quality leashes allow for better control without being too uncomfortable.
Climate control products are also starting to gain popularity. Cooling mats keep pets cool during hot summer months. Heated beds can help keep your pet warm during winter.
Grooming and Health Accessories
Regular grooming keeps pets both happy and healthy.
Pet grooming products have also been revolutionised by modern technology. Self-cleaning brushes capture loose fur with the push of a button. Electric nail grinders are faster and safer than conventional clippers.
Dental care accessories have seen a major leap forward. Water additives fight plaque and freshen breath. Dental chews clean teeth and satisfy a pet’s need to chew.
Health monitoring accessories are also becoming increasingly mainstream. Smart collars can track your pet’s heart rate, respiratory rate and more. Some even have health alerts that detect early signs of potential illness before symptoms appear.
The genius of these products is how easily they can be integrated into everyday life. Routine use prevents problems from ever occurring.
Interactive and Enrichment Toys
Physical exercise is important, but mental stimulation is equally valuable.
Puzzle feeders are the perfect way to slow down eating and engage your pet’s mind. These products work by concealing treats inside chambers your pet has to puzzle out in order to open.
Interactive toys are another way to keep your pet amused while you are away. These include:
- Motion activated toys that respond to pet movement
- Treat dispensing balls that reward playful interaction
- Electronic mice and birds for cats
- Tug toys for solo play
The key with these products is to find toys that match the size and energy level of your pet.
Enrichment products can go a long way to prevent boredom and destructive behaviours. A mentally tired pet is often better behaved than a physically tired one. Enrichment toys and accessories provide pets with jobs to do and problems to solve.
How to Choose the Right Products
The right pet products are not one size fits all.
Start with the unique needs of your pet. Active dogs will need more durable toys and training accessories. Older pets will have different comfort focused product requirements. Anxious pets may need specialised calming accessories.
Quality is always more important than quantity. One high quality collar will last longer than three cheaper versions. High quality products save money in the long run.
Do your research before purchasing. Pet collars, leashes and harnesses make up close to 32% of the overall pet accessories market. That is a lot of variety to choose from at all price points.
Check for the following when shopping:
- Durability and quality of materials used
- Safety certifications and independent testing
- Size and weight appropriateness
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance
- Return policy and warranty information
Reviews from other pet owners can also be useful in determining which products truly live up to their claims.
Bringing It All Together
Pet accessories and innovative pet products have truly changed the way we care for pets.
There is a product for every single aspect of pet ownership. Pet products these days range from smart tech that provides insights and convenience, to comfort products that improve the quality of life for pets. The options are constantly expanding.
The most effective approach is to use several different types of pet accessories together.
- Safety products that protect pets while out and about
- Comfort products that aid your pet’s daily wellbeing
- Technology that offers insight and ease of use
- Enrichment toys and accessories that provide mental stimulation
Remember that the best pet accessories are the ones that solve real problems. They should make life better for both pets and their parents.
Start with the basics. Add in products as you identify specific needs. Keep an eye on how your pet responds to new accessories. Some pets take longer to adapt than others.
You don’t need to buy every single new pet product on the market. You just need to find the right combination of products that make the biggest difference in your pet’s life. With some careful selection, you can see just how much innovative pet products make a difference to your furry companion.