Traveling with pets has become a more common activity in the United States than it was before. According to the most recent survey results published by the American Pet Products Association, the number of pet-owning families in the country has ballooned to 86.9 million. More than a few of these households are willing to spend the time and money on tickets, accommodations, and pet gear so that their pets can join them on vacations and holiday travel adventures.
It’s no wonder, then, that many businesses in the tourism industry are going the pet-friendly route. If you happen to run a store that’s located near a major thoroughfare or in a touristy area in your town or city, then there’s a big opportunity for you to get in on this trend and expand your market to include pet parents. Below are eight items that you can keep in stock to satisfy customers who are traveling with their companion animals:
Leashes, Collars, and Harnesses
Collars and leashes are on the top of a pet parent’s list of pet stuff to bring when traveling with their dogs and cats. But that doesn’t mean they can’t use extra ones on their holiday. These items are key to ensuring that their furred companions will stay by their side and under their control as they experience new things and see unfamiliar places. Consider selling leashes, collars, and harnesses of all designs, for all sorts and sizes of pets, and get the added benefit of increasing the visibility of your brand.
Customized Pet Treat Bags
Treats are another essential supply item for traveling pet owners, as they need to reward their well-behaved dogs and cats and encourage them to maintain their good behavior. You can help travelers stay organized and consistent in their training, even during their vacation, by offering them a wide array of reusable and customizable dog treat bags. Add value to this item by embellishing it with exclusive and location-specific designs, such as cute depictions of the local landmarks and attractions. The bag itself can serve as the pet’s souvenir of the holiday.
Customized Pet Toys
Rewards and souvenirs can also take the form of a new pet toy from the family’s holiday destination. You can order customized pet toy products that take after the tourist attractions in your area, or toys that carry the logo of your shop. Work with an experienced dog or cat toy manufacturer to make sure that the pet toys your store will offer are durable and safe enough to use, even for high-energy pets.
Pet Backpacks and Bowls
Packing is a serious business for pet parents, especially for those who like to take their pets trekking or hiking. You can help them make sure that they have all they need for their outdoor adventures by selling pet backpacks in your store. These can go on a dog’s back so that the dog can carry their own supplies for the journey. It’s also a good idea to sell portable pet bowls for food and drinks, as these will be useful to urban tourists and trekkers alike who are bringing their pets along.
Pet First Aid Kits and Supplies
Not all pet owners pack first aid kits just for their dogs and cats during their holidays. You can help them stay safe and immediately address their pets’ minor injuries or ailments by offering them pet first aid kits that they can take anywhere. It’s also an option to sell individual first aid supplies like paw balms and tick removers in your store for pet parents who might have forgotten their tools and supplies at home.
Pet Cleanup Kits and Supplies
Messy accidents can take place even during holidays, and pet parents still have to clean up after their dogs and cats even on their days out. Make this task easy for them by selling pet cleanup kits and supplies. You can offer pet soaps, wipes, disinfectant sprays, poop bags, and poop bag holders, among other items.
Pet Clothes and Shoes
There are dogs and cats whose physical characteristics are naturally suited for very hot or cold climates, and there are those that have difficulty adjusting to extremes. Knowing that, you can offer pet parents summer or winter clothes for their pets so that their dogs and cats can also enjoy their holiday in comfort. Cooling clothes and bandanas can do wonders for dogs that tend to get quite warm when hiking, for example, while thick jackets can help pets with thinner coats appreciate a day out in the snow with their human companions. Shoes for pets can also be quite helpful in preventing injuries caused by very hot or cold weather conditions.
Minimalist Pet Beds
Some pet owners bring their pets’ beds with them on holidays, and there are hotels that offer complimentary pet beds to their guests who are bringing companion animals. However, there are also those who prefer to purchase pet beds upon arriving at their destination to keep their luggage at a minimum. Consider stocking up on minimalist pet beds in your store in case a traveler has forgotten their pet’s bed at home or if they find out too late that their hotel does not offer one.
By selling these items, your business will help tourists and their pets feel a warm welcome whenever they visit your city or town. You’ll also be doing your part to make sure your town will stay on the radar of pet parents who want to enjoy their holidays with their furred family members in tow. Invest in travel products for your pet parent customers, and you may be able to watch your business grow in unprecedented ways during the holiday season!
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