According to the 2021-2022 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 70% of U.S. households now own a pet. One in four new pet owners surveyed said that their recent pet acquisition was influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.
While Millennials are currently the largest segment of pet owners, many members of Gen Z also began to foster pets during the pandemic. Compared to the other generations, Gen Z owns the most fish, birds, reptiles, and horses.
As the pet industry – aka the petconomy – continues to grow, increased advertising will help both emerging and established pet care and supply companies capture new market share. Both Millennials and Gen Z are more willing than other generations to purchase a variety of products for their pets, including different types of pet food, treats, and toys.
How (and Why) Promotional Products for Pets Are Used
Promotional products for pets and pet owners are used by veterinary clinics, cat and dog groomers, pet supply companies, pet insurance companies, dog hotels and pet resorts, and other businesses in the pet industry to increase brand awareness and loyalty.
Popular promotional products for pets include custom pet bandanas, branded dog squeaker toys and plush dog toys, custom pet ID tags, and pet food bowls.
@bluebuffalo Buddies turned one year old! Join in on the celebration by downloading today at the link in bio 🎉 #pets #petparent ♬ original sound – Blue Buffalo
More elaborate pet giveaways include personalized dog harnesses and custom chicken coop signs.
@purinafeedgreatness GIVEAWAY ALERT ⚠️ Comment on this post to be randomly selected to receive a FREE set of 2022 collectible coop signs! #ChickenTok #Chickens ♬ original sound – Purina Animal Nutrition
Pet companies aren’t the only ones using promotional products for pets to reach out to pet owners. Giving away a free pet-themed promotional gift is a smart advertising strategy for brands that want to foster an emotional connection with pet owners. After all, 94% of U.S. pet owners consider their pets to be a part of their family!
Notable brands that have teamed up with pet companies to release limited edition collections of co-branded pet toys include Dunkin’ (in collaboration with BARK) and Netflix (in collaboration with PetSmart).
@dunkinthedeafdoggo dunkins new favorite toys!! @barkbox #barkbox #dunkindonuts #dunkin #coffeelover #doglover #corgipuppy #PepsiApplePieChallenge @dunkin ♬ FEEL THE GROOVE – Queens Road, Fabian Graetz
Personalized Promotional Products for Pets & Pet Owners
Some of the best promotional products for pets that can be purchased in bulk and customized with your brand logo and colors include inexpensive items like personalized dog bandanas, pet brushes or combs, and custom pet toys.
Other popular promotional items for dogs and other pets include:
Dog Poop Bag Dispensers w/LED Flashlight ▶
Custom Pet Collars & Pet Leashes
Squeeze & Serve Pet Water Bottle
Alfie Dual Bottle (features separate compartments for treats & water)
Premium promotional product ideas for pet owners include aquarium toys, bird travel carriers, cat blankets, custom dog beds and dog car seats, and Personalized Cat Carriers. These items are perfect for pet giveaways, sweepstakes, and contests.
Engaging Pet Owners with Promotional Pet Products
Major pet brands and small businesses in the pet industry alike can incorporate promotional products into their marketing strategy by:
- Giving away pet swag at local community events
- Holding pet giveaways on social media to celebrate International Dog Day, National Cat Day, and other occasions observed by animal lovers and pet parents
- Offering promotional gifts to employees or customers who donate to a pet charity
- Creating a pop-up shop for a limited edition or co-branded line of premium pet merch
To learn about using promotional products for pets in your marketing strategy, or for a pop-up shop consultation, contact us today: