Fashion Faux "Paws": Dressing Up Your Pet Are there justifiable reasons to provide our beloved pooches with fashionable accessories and clothing? Whether you’re a dog owner or not, some have the perspective that pampering and clothing a dog to be “fashionable” is unreasonable, maybe even to the point of being ridiculous. Others have the view that fashion, clothing and accessories for a dog is just another way to show their affection and love for their animal. Should we let dogs be dogs? According to the American Pet Products Association, approximately $48 billion was spent on pets in 2010. Of that, $3.5 billion was spent on pet services. What drives pet owners across the United States to spend on their animals? Fashion aside, there are many possible benefits to providing clothing and accessories to dogs. The primary purpose is for health reasons such as protection, warmth, and even allergies.
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Depending on the breed, age and climate in which they live, some dogs may benefit from being fitted with a sweater or specialized boots. Even for dogs that are not very fond of cold, harsh winters, a warm, dry sweater will provide an extra layer of comfort, especially for those without thick fur. Dog boots will assist in protecting feet from snow and
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ice. For dogs (and owners) that are not fond of rainy seasons, owners can purchase dogs raincoats. Some owners provide their beloved pals with a shirt designed to help reduce anxiety during treacherous thunderstorms. Summer months have their perks for the pooches too, as dogs can benefit from special doggie life jackets and sun protectant clothing that can be useful during those sun-filled days. In most cases, if a pet owner is already providing these types of garments for their dog, and has an opportunity to be fashion-forward with their pets, they will certainly take advantage of the opportunity. Dog owner and lover Dominique Matthews finds that fashion and dogs really do go hand in hand. "How could you live, have a dog, and not have fashion?!! I think everyone caters to their dog in different ways. Those with great fashion taste will spend extra to make sure their pooch has the cutest pink dress or ‘flyest’ army-style vintage sweater. Those who aren't into fashion have their dogs walking around naked! I think that when it comes down to dogs and fashion, it's a must, especially for those pet owners without children. We must spend our hard earned money on someone besides ourselves and our
dogs are the next best thing!" Another passionate dog owner, Jordan Anderson, provides her take on doggie fashion: "Dogs only care about smelling butts and stealing table scraps. But, puppy fashion is definitely for their human counterparts; if the dogs don't mind so much, why not be fashion-forward with them?" Regardless of the reasons behind a pet owner’s choice to provide fashion for their dog, the primary concern should be the safety and comfort of their pets. Here are some fashion tips to consider: •Introduce, not don’t force. •Do not attempt to clothe your dog while it is playing or exercising. •Consider comfort and fit. •Clothing and accessories should never constrict a dog’s movement. •Consider the breed - not all dogs are compatible with clothing. •Consider the dog’s environment and climate. •Never leave a clothed dog unattended. •Always remove any clothing or accessories from your dog, if it appears to be agitated with the items. •Consider the materials - all clothing and accessories should be made with non-toxic materials. While there may never be a clear consensus as to whether fashion and dogs truly belong together, it is clear that providing protection to our dogs, through the form of clothing and accessories, can truly be beneficial. If fashion is helpful in keeping our dog’s good health, then so be it.
Ashley Carus A resident of Muskego, WI.—Ashley loves to spend time with family and friends. She enjoys reading, writing and oil painting in her spare time.