MAIN Home Life Shopping Pet Supplies

According to the latest market research, we're continuing to treat our pets just as we would our kids, with all the care and concern we would show for any beloved member of the family.

The American Pet Product Manufacturers Association annually projects into the billions the amount of money that Americans will spend on their furry or feathered friends, an amount that rises year after year!

So it's no surprise that sales of pet supplies have skyrocketed recently, what with demand for pet car seats, doggie jewelry, fashion clothing, and natural & homemade pet foods topping the list of the latest, most popular items. Like kids, pets can make one big mess on occasion, so let's not forget the products that help remove pet stains and odors.

Online, you can save lots of money off regular store prices by shopping the big pet supply chains like Petco, and wholesale markets like Pet Edge, or J B Wholesale Pet Supplies. For natural pet foods, also check out Only Natural Pet.com for a wide range of holistic foods and treats for cats and dogs including grain-free, organic and allergy formulas.

For extra-smart online shopping, always remember to sign up for newsletters at the official sites of Purina, Mars Petcare (Pedigree, Whiskas), Del Monte Pet Products (Cycle, 9 Lives), and other store brands for the latest updates on special sales and promotions.

Of course, it always pays to comparison shop and to check for online coupons and discount codes whenever you're buying online. When you're out shopping, also don't forget to check additional savings at consumer warehouses like Sam's Club or Costco - if you don't mind hauling jumbo size bags or other pet supplies in bulk.

Just up ahead, find out more about where to find the best high-end pet supplies at the best prices online, along with great ideas for giving gifts to dog lovers and cat lovers around the holidays.

A word about pet medications

Although the convenience of shopping online has also been extended to pet medications, be wary of online pet pharmacies offering veterinary prescription drugs available without a prescription. This is especially dangerous when ordering any type of anti-inflammatory drug or heart worm medication which can be life-threatening if not carefully monitored by your family vet.

Add to that questionable expiration dates or the quality of some of these medications, and you'll see why it's always best to shop at only an NABP certified online pharmacy.

also see -> Pets | Dog Day Care | Pet Boarding Kennels

How to Make Pet Costumes | Find a Pet Sitter

More about how to buy pet food & supplies around the Web:

The Pet Food List - No longer updated, but still a great resource for learning about all company brands and major ingredients, with related resources.

Dog Food Analysis - The 'top dog' of consumer pet food sites with extensive information on dog food ingredients for all popular brands, along with reviews, a busy forum, FAQ.

Cat Food Brands A-Z - Excellent guide from About.com, including ingredient lists for all major brands, plus related tips on how to choose cat food, and advice on understanding cat food labels.

Sniffing Out the Bargains - Informal 2011 survey by Consumer Reports of major pet food chains in the San Francisco area. See which ones had the cheapest prices.

How to Buy Pet Friendly Cleaning Products - Good advice on keeping pets safe with suggestions for brand name products and homemade solutions, with more tips in the visitor comments section.