One of the few sectors that truly seems recession-resistant involves our pets. At least 62% of U.S. households now own pets. The retail value of this industry keeps rising and was pegged at $45 billion in 2008. While nearly 1/3^rd of the spending on pets is linked to food, there are other products and services on the market that could benefit from new ad campaigns.

A recent Forbes article highlighted that pet ownership rates may continue to rise as the Baby Boomer generation ages. This demographic group is changing the long-held notion that older consumers don’t acquire pets. Apparently, Baby Boomers are turning their pets into surrogate children to fill their empty nests.

Here’s a sampling of fast-growing pet-related businesses that aim to help owners with the responsibility of caring for Fluffy and Fido:

DoodyCalls

This fast growing franchise offers pet waste clean-up services in homeowner yards, apartment community public space and condo association space.

Mutt Huttz

Who wants to look at the unattractive pet crate in the living room when it can be covered with a custom cloth? This manufacturer of custom covers, including the upcoming Mutt Huttz Cozy, is distributing her products through independent stores nationwide.

Bamboo Pet

Expanding on the concept that pets are people too, this manufacturer produces products such as DogToids Breath Mints, pedicure sets for cats, and pet toys. The company’s offerings are carried at major pet retailers around the U.S.

Whether there’s a new service business in your market or whether the pet retailer in your market is now stocking the latest gadgets, the best way to inform and educate consumers is through a new ad campaign.

[Source: Marcus, Miriam. Quirky Pet Businesses, Forbes, 11.14.09]