Bling-Bling and More for Pets

I frequently discuss estate planning for pets on this blog.  You may follow these links for a general article, state statutes, sample forms, and a comprehensive list of resources on how to provide for non-human family members.

The degree to which pet owners are pampering their pets is on the rise is demonstrated in Amanda Ernst, Platinum Pets, Forbes.com, Sept. 29, 2006:

According to the Greenwich, Conn.-based American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, spending on pets has increased by $10 billion in the past five years and will hit an estimated $38.4 billion this year. * * *

Like many pet accessory purveyors, Pittsburgh-based Bark Avenue Jewelers started out designing human items but then saw the potential for a broader market. Bark Avenue makes fine jewelry for pets, in particular, 14-karat gold and silver pendants and necklaces for dogs and cats. Their designs usually feature diamonds, and they sell for $110 to $4,900. Custom designs, which can include the dog’s name, additional stones or engraving, cost even more. * * *

Emma Rose dog wedding gowns cost $1,500 and up (but include a veil and garter). Although Blanchette admits that some of her clients throw lavish weddings where their pets marry each other, usually her designs complement an owner’s own wedding–particularly since pets sometimes serve as part of the bridal party.