In France, nearly half of all households have at least one pet. As Christmas approaches, many pet owners are increasingly pampering their dogs and cats. This trend is benefiting pet supply stores significantly. Jean-Philippe Blasco, commercial director of Maxi Zoo France, states, "Pets hold a much more important place in the home; they are fully-fledged family members. It makes sense to include them in Christmas celebrations."
During the festive season, Maxi Zoo experiences a 20% increase in sales in December compared to other months. Another major player in the market, Animalis, sees a sales boost of 15 to 20% during this time. Benjamin Robinet, marketing and e-commerce director at Animalis, explains, "Pet owners want to spoil all family members, and dogs, cats, or even turtles are no exception. This is especially true for toys and accessories, which can see their sales double during the holiday season."
Astrid Brunet plans to gift a toy to her five-year-old Australian shepherd, Mamen. "It's to make him happy; he’s a family member like the others," she says with a smile. She sets a budget of around twenty euros, similar to that of 32-year-old Baptiste Gautier, who is torn between a cushion and a toy for his two-and-a-half-year-old golden retriever, Tao.
Treats are also very popular, alongside the current trend of advent calendars filled with toys and goodies. "Just like with children, we start spoiling our pets before Christmas Day. They are fully integrated into the Christmas process," notes Blasco. This phenomenon has grown significantly in recent years.
For about thirty years, the status of domestic dogs and cats has evolved remarkably. Gone are the days when pets were merely guardians of the home or hunters of mice. Today, pets exist solely to be part of our lives, says sociologist Christophe Blanchard. "Including them in Christmas festivities or daily events has become normal," he adds.
While French people are spoiling their four-legged companions more during Christmas, they are also generous towards those less fortunate. Donations increase during this time, with December accounting for 20% of the annual collection for the SPA (Société protectrice des animaux) and 36% for the 30 Millions d'Amis Foundation. Shelters also receive more in-kind donations, which the SPA appreciates.
Reha Hutin, president of the 30 Millions d'Amis Foundation, warns, "Giving gifts to pets has become the norm. But be careful, a pet is not a gift." Adopting an animal, whether from a shelter or elsewhere, is a commitment to keep it for its entire life, she emphasizes.