Special Gifts Section

Selling Pet Gifts (From page 39) a home run, do not be afraid to buy bigger,” Spansel said.

When it comes to displays, window and table displays have always been the most successful way to showcase merchandise, Spansel said. “We always have a seasonal table filled with what’s new. Make it fun, keep it fun,” Spansel said.

The majority of people who come into the 1,000-square-foot Bark & Meow Pet Supplies in Toronto–known for its selection of vegan options for dogs and cats–are there to buy items for their own pets, said Owner Charles Ng . But during holidays, shoppers tend to drop by to purchase gifts for a friend’s furry friend. These customers normally choose toys and treats. Otherwise, they’re unsure about what’s safe for another owner’s pet.

Ng starts out small by buying a few items from a product line that he’s interested in. He’ll expand selection if customers are interested in it as well.

When he brings in new products, he’ll rearrange them on the shelves so new items are front and centre. If there’s space, he may use the display cases that come with the product.

What a Dog Likes: Trends in Toys

At Lake Erie Pet Co., Owner/General Manager Eric Huber said puzzle toys with treats or food hidden in the nooks and crannies are best-sellers. They keep dogs occupied and are long lasting. He carries the made-in-the-USA brand West Paw.

It’s impossible to name one best toy for a dog, said City Dog Market CEO and Founder Renee Palmer. “Dogs are as unique as we are.” But she does favour the plush toy Fluff and Tuff. “They do a really great job of making plush toys that hold up very well for customers,” expressed Palmer. What’s more: They’ve done unbelievable repeat business on the brand and it supports homeless pet community – “I love partnering with vendors like that who care enough to also give back,” said Palmer.

“Dogs and cats are like little kids; they’re not all the same,” said Owner Charles Ng at Bark & Meow. While some may play with a ball, another may be interested in a stuffed animal, he explained. There are other considerations, too. For instance, one toy might be torn apart by a larger breed, but suitable for a chihuahua. As well, a squeaker toy may not work if the pet parents live in a smaller quarters. But, in a large house, the squeaker toy may not be such an irritant.

Owner Michele Spansel at Southern Paws agreed. “Every dog is unique,” said Spansel. “Some are chewers, some love squeakers: The key is to have something for everyone.” ❖

These usually provide more information about the product and get customers interested in an item, said Ng.

This year, Ng scattered Christmas-themed products are throughout the store–so Christmas dog toys are in the dog toys section, and Christmas dog treats are in the dog treat section, and so on. “Everywhere you go, you see a little bit of something,” said Ng.

In Cleveland, Ohio, the bulk of Lake Erie Pet Food Co’s business involves pet supplies delivery. They also sell from their 1,000-square-feet retail location.

Owner Eric Huber said consumable products (in particular, dog chews) in bulk packaging are the best-sellers here. Huber finds that shoppers are drawn to consumables in their true form, rather than in flashy packaging. He’s also found they tend to buy more of the consumables when they’re in bulk–and then come back to try them again.

For Christmas, they package items in gift baskets or stuffed stockings for dogs and cats that include items like Holiday Catnip Fish, purple feather, cat treats, chews and mini biscuits. Year-round they offer other gift baskets, like their puppy packs that include items like puppy food and chews suitable for puppies.

They use an 8-foot tall and 7-foot-wide antique hutch to display bulk products and place them in the various nooks and crannies. ❖