Cash in on man's love for animals

The world's pet population is rising fast - and with it, the pet-care industry. So what's the best way for investors to take advantage? James McKeigue investigates.

Last August a New York catwalk was filled with international models, diamond-encrusted jewellery and couture designer clothing. So far, so typical. But with one big difference: the stars were all pets.

But don't dismiss this as another example of 'wacky America' these events reflect the growing tendency for owners to treat their pets as well as, or better than, humans. As Sam Knight notes in the FT, a recent survey showed that 70% of American pet owners regard their animal as a family member, while 40% of US dog owners share a bed with a pooch. So why is this happening and how can you take advantage?

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James McKeigue

James graduated from Keele University with a BA (Hons) in English literature and history, and has a certificate in journalism from the NCTJ. James has worked as a freelance journalist in various Latin American countries.He also had a spell at ITV, as welll as wring for Television Business International and covering the European equity markets for the Forbes.com London bureau. James has travelled extensively in emerging markets, reporting for international energy magazines such as Oil and Gas Investor, and institutional publications such as the Commonwealth Business Environment Report. He is currently the managing editor of LatAm INVESTOR, the UK's only Latin American finance magazine.