l With 55% of U.S. households owning one or more pets, consumer expenditures neared $30 billion on pet-related products and services in 2002, according to Unity Marketing’s study, “Why People Buy Things for Their Pets.” Of that total, $18 billion comprised pet foods and supplies, while $12 billion went toward veterinary services. “As consumers lavish spending on their pets, increasing amounts are allocated to special services like exercise, pet sitting, grooming, even spa services,” said Pam D...