Not such a dog’s life and the cats do get the cream

Britain is widely regarded as a nation of pet lovers. But is it becoming a nation of pet sugar daddies, as well?

Expenditure on pet accessories and health care is forecasted to soar to more than £500m by 2007, according to a report published by Mintel last week.

Working pet owners – who are racked with guilt about the small amount of time they get to spend with their furry friends – account for most of the money spent.

And it gets worse. Mintel says they are gradually encouraging a ‘narrowing of differences between accessories and toiletries for human use and those designed for pets’.

Ah, well – just think of the packaging and naming opportunities for designers. Pit-Bulgari tiaras or Poochi beachwear, anyone?