APPA: Annual pet spending reaches all

APPA: Annual pet spending reaches all LOS ANGELES (AP) — Americans spent $50. Spending in 2011 was up 5. 35 billion, Vetere said. e estimated 2012 sales would total $53 billion. In 2011, people spent $19. 41 billion on vet care, $11. 77 billion on supplies and over-the-counter medicines, $3. 79 billion on other services and $2. APPA President Bob Vetere said 2012 should be another banner year for services, predicting it would grow 8. 11 billion in 2012. Pet ownership is becoming less of an impulse decision, Vogelsang said. ' People are more interested in pets than ever before but they are taking their time, once they make the commitment, to do it right. "Insurance makes such a difference in the health of an animal," Vogelsang said. It's literally a life-saver and I'm really glad people are embracing the concept," the veterinarian said. 9 percent from $3. 51 billion on other services and $2. The pet industry is also a major attraction for entrepreneurs and investors looking for creative and innovative products, Vetere said. Vogelsang believes the trend is toward "very specific items geared to the specific needs of pets. 01 billion on vet care, $10. 94 billion on supplies and over-the-counter medicines, $3. Food and vet costs accounted for about 65 percent of the spending. 1 percent growth. APPA numbers indicate that animal sales and adoptions are flattening out as well as the number of people who switched over to high-end food products is topping out. 13 billion on live animal purchases. APPA: Annual pet spending reaches all Trade News selected by Local Linkup on 03/03/2012