Fido first: Pet boutiques bucking trend
The economy hasn’t gone to the dogs yet — or at least not to Fido’s kibble.
Despite a sagging stock market and signs of belt-tightening throughout the retail sector, Boston’s four-legged friends are still getting their preppy collars, organic treats and spa treatments. The news is good for area pet boutiques, which have thrived in recent years.
“My business is four years old and is still continuing to grow month to month over last year,” said Jeff McKee, owner of The Barking Cat in Salem. “I think what it comes down to is a cutback in terms of quantity? Possibly, but a cutback in quality? No.”
Specialty pet supplies’ apparent resistance to economic turmoil easily could be attributed to the better than average socioeconomic status of a boutique’s clientele. But pet store owners say there is more to it than money. Pets provide unconditional love and attention to an owner fretting about the economy, and owners appear to be more willing to cut back on their own treats than Fido’s or Kitty’s.
“I firmly believe people will forego personal luxuries for their pets,” said Chris Keohane, operations manager at DogSpa in North Beverly. “In uncontrollable times when people are projecting uncertainty, they can control their pets — they control what they eat, they control how they look. It provides some balance in their lives.”
Elizabeth Georgantas said she has not changed her buying habits for her 2-year-old black lab, Monty.
