"Folks who make and sell Halloween costumes have a most unlikely target customer this year: Fido.
More precisely, dog owners. Spending on Halloween costumes for pets -- mostly dogs, but occasionally cats --will hit a record $370 million this year, up nearly 20% from last year's $310 million, reports the National Retail Federation.
Sales of pet costumes, though still relatively small, are the industry's fastest-growing area. They're up double-digits the past three years in a row at Rubie's Costume, says Howard Beige, executive vice president.
'Dogs are getting as many popular-character licenses as kids,' he says.
Costume makers say the Spot-on trend for dogs this year is the wave of new, licensed costumes for pets -- such as dogs dressed as giant Tootsie Rolls, Heinz ketchup bottles or, for the more heroic canines, Bat Dog. Many of these costumes fetch close to $20 each.
'People just don't skimp on their pets,' says Michael Gatti, executive director of the National Retail Federation's marketing arm. 'They'll cut corners on themselves, but not on their pets.'"
I love dogs in hats as much as the next pet lover, but I have to admit, we over-do it way too easily.
Most dogs have to be taught not to chew their collars, harnesses, and clothes, why? Because it is their natural instinct. They were not born with a collar around their neck or harness around their middle so they have to be trained to ignore it, this same principle applies to clothes. Animals have to be trained not to tear up their "accessories." Teaching can take time, time spent in frustration that could have just as easily been spent in enjoyment with your family. So instead of giving you and your pet a headache, leave the Bat Dog costumes at the store!
