Pet trends

• In the service: In addition to basics such as food and medical care, people are spending more on supplemental pet services such as grooming, boarding, pet photography, dog walking and pet-sitting. An estimated $2.7 billion was spent on such services in 2006. Pet-sitting, in particular, has seen a surge in recent years as more people become reluctant to leave dogs home alone all day or cats alone for a weekend.

• Insurance increases: Pet insurance that helps pay for medical expenses is becoming more widely used. Now mostly offered by smaller, specialized companies, expect to see some of the big players make their way into the arena. Also on the horizon: more employers offering pet insurance as a company benefit.

• Going to the dogs: Companies that are traditionally known for human products are also including pet products as part of their lines. Such companies as Paul Mitchell, Omaha Steaks, Harley Davidson and Old Navy are now offering everything from dog shampoo to pet attire, name-brand toys and gourmet treats.

• Putting out the welcome mat: Many hotel and motel chains across the country are adopting pet-friendly policies. Many require a nominal fee for pets, but some not only let pets stay free but include such amenities as pet pillows and check-in baskets that include treats, toys and ID tags. (Still, if you are traveling with pets, it's a good idea to check before you go.)

• Dinner is served: Today's pet foods not only offer complete and balanced diets, they are also becoming more specialized to fit various stages in the pet's life, from puppies and kittens to older animals. Even reptiles, birds and fish share in the trend.

• The lap of luxury: High-end items to spoil companion animals are plentiful and include everything from coats and sweaters for cold-weather outings to daybeds for afternoon doggie naps, designer bird cages, botanical fragrances, monogrammed sweaters and bowls and even rhinestone tiaras. High-tech products, including automatic doors, programmable feeding and drinking systems, self-cleaning litter boxes, enhanced reptile terrarium lighting systems and touch-activated toys all add to the quality of a pet's life.

• Home for the holidays: Pets are increasingly becoming a part of holiday celebrations. For example, in 2006, some 3 1/2 million dog and cat owners purchased Halloween products (including costumes, cards, illuminated collars, leashes and treats). Some 9 million gave their pets a Valentine's Day present (everything from crunchy valentines to Swarovski pet charms and pink beds and blankets).

And last year, more than half of all dog owners and a third of all cat owners said they bought Christmas gifts for their pets (toys, holiday-theme products, holiday fashions and other treats).