The buzz phrase in the industry is that “The country is going to the dogs”.  In fact there are now more pets in the United States than people.  According to statistics from the American Pet Products Manufacturing Association (APPMA), America’s spending on pets has doubled in the past 11years - from $17 billion in 1994 to a projected $35.9 billion in 2005. Fueling this trend are empty nesters lavishing attention and money on their pets, and young adults who put their time and energy into their animals.  The pet industry that has become more sophisticated at consumer marketing, the influence of magazines, newspapers and popular television cable channels like Animal Planet have also had a major impact. The result is that the pet industry is now the seventh largest retail segment in the nation. Consumers currently spend more on their beloved pets than candy or toys.  The numbers are staggering. According to the APPMA, 63% of U.S. households, or 69 million homes have a pet and there are 65 million pet dogs in the United States. Not only are more dogs living with us but now, more than ever, they are treated like family.

For example: 
• It is not uncommon for owners to keep their pet’s photo in their wallet or purse
• Birthday parties, Easter baskets and Christmas gifts for dogs are the norm in many households
• We pamper them with health products and grooming services and feed them nutritious food and snacks

This love affair with our dogs and other pets has fueled one of the countries healthiest industries and spurred the creation of toys, clothing, bedding, furniture and gourmet treats that rival those of humans.  Industry researchers estimate that the industry will grow between 5% and 15% annually through 2010.

According to Andrew Darmohraj, Vice President and Deputy Managing Director of the APPMA, the following are the fastest growing pet products that continue to offer opportunities for entrepreneurs:

• High-end clothing, beds, jewelry and other accessories for both dogs and cats
• High-tech convenience gadgets, such as self cleaning kitty-litter boxes and automatic water dispensers for dogs
• Leashes and carriers
• Natural and organic foods and treats
• Natural and organic soaps, shampoo, lotions - all designed to mimic human products
• Nutritional supplements

These are the key products that Just Dogs! Gourmet delivers to the consumer.  By providing the “World’s Tastiest Gourmet Dog Treats” and our other upscale and healthy products for dogs, we feel that we have found our niche and are perfectly positioned to capture a large share of the pet industry.