Dog owners aren't scrooges

The slumping economy won't stop dog owners from buying their best buddies gifts this season, according to a recent American Kennel Club (AKC) survey. More than 80 percent of the online survey's respondents say they'll purchase their pooches something for the holidays. In fact, 69 percent said they'll spend up to $50 and 24 percent will spend between $50 and $100. Even 3 percent of survey respondents said they plan to spend more than $150 on their dogs.

AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson says, in general, people are more dedicated to their dogs than ever before. But it doesn't sound like they're more dedicated to their human friends. Almost 70 percent of survey respondents said they'll cut back on gifts for friends and extended family before skimping on their dogs' presents. And nearly 9 percent said they'll scale back on their spouses' gifts before their dogs' presents. Sounds like now is the time to market your practice's products and services as great gifts for pets.