Pet parents ready to spend big this Christmas

Around 50 per cent* of Australia's pet parents are expected to buy a gift for their fur-children this Christmas with toys, treats and gifts packs set to be the top sellers.

Spending on gifts for pets this Christmas in Australia is likely to exceed reported Valentine's Day spending of around $46 million**.

With more than 60 per cent⁺ of Australian households owning at least one pet and half of Aussie pet owners considering their pet equally as important as their kids*, the furry and four-legged will be the winners this festive season.

New South Wales based engineering project manager and pet-mum, Janet Kirkwood has spent almost $300 on Christmas gifts from personalised pet accessories retailer, IdPet.com.au, for her Bull Arab Cross canine, Shiloh, and her niece's dog, Marnie.

Ms Kirkwood says that Shiloh deserves a gift this Christmas just like the other human family members.

"I just love her to bits. Shiloh is always by my side, never leaves me, she is such a character and a loving dog, she is a huge part of the family and I treat her like she is another child," explained Ms Kirkwood.

"I just love spoiling Shiloh and getting her little pressies. I buy her gifts every month or so."

"As a rescue dog, Shiloh had a hard start in life, so I intend to give her the best life I can now and that means spoiling her like any other family member. Santa will definitely be visiting Shiloh this year and many more to come," added Ms Kirkwood.

Christmas stockings with paw prints, tree ornaments which can be printed with pet's photos, Christmas pet gift packs with treat bag and chew toys and a range of clothing and bandanas that can be personalised with a Christmas theme are just some of the items listed online at IdPet.com.au.

Katrina Thomson, founder of IdPet.com.au, says that many owners give gifts to their pets to acknowledge that they are part of the family.

"Our customer's pets are considered part of, if not equal to, human family members who share the family household and routines. So buying a gift for their pet as a way to make them feel special, is just as important," Ms Thomson explains.

"Our Personalised Christmas Gift Packs are always top sellers. Toys and pet friendly treats are also popular. Our customers spend an average of $54 per purchase but customers tend to spend more over the Christmas period."

Ms Kirkwood admits that she has spent around $1,000 on gifts for Shiloh since she adopted her four months ago.

"We're a nation of pet lovers and it is nice to see that so many of us are willing to show our puppy love for our furry friends by giving them a gift this Christmas," added Mr Thomson.

For more information, visit www.idpet.com.au. You can also follow IdPet via #idpetaustralia.

ENDS

Media Contact: Maria Crema, Crema PR m: 0402 239 929 e: maria@cremapr.com.au

*Bankwest Social Indicator Survey: 'Family Pooch Index', 2010

**A survey by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), 2013

⁺Animal Health Alliance, Pet Ownership in Australia 2013 Summary

Editor's Note: Katrina Thomson, Founder of IdPet.com.au, and Janet Kirkwood, pet owner, are available for interview on request.

More about IdPet (www.idpet.com.au)

IdPet specialises in personalised pet products and accessories for pets with personality and individuality. Products are designed and printed in Melbourne, Australia. IdPet was the first of its kind in Australia and has transformed the pet products category with its unique products. Bowls, collars, leads, toys, coats and more can all be branded with pet’s names and even their photos with a fast five day turnaround. IdPet also gives back to animal charities through IdPet’s Personalised Love Fundraising Program. For more information, visit www.idpet.com.au.