Have a Party for Your Pet or a Wedding.

Michelle Felder admits that her Yorkshire Terrier, King Solomon, is spoiled. "Solomon is my baby, my first born," said Felder, 31. Viewing pets as children is a phenomenon that is spreading among pet owners. An overview of the findings of the latest pet owners' survey was revealed at the Global Pet Expo in Orlando, Fla., in February. And more pet owners are showing their love and affection toward their animals by buying gifts and throwing parties.
Are Pets Like Kids?
Bob Vetere, president of the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, said the phenomenon of showing pets more affection includes scheduling play dates, birthday parties and weddings, as well as giving gifts. Dog owners were found, in a study by the APPMA to be more inclined to buy a gift for their dog's birthday.
Vetere said many pet owners have an emotional connection to their pets, and the amount of money spent is projected to increase, making it a $50 billion industry by the end of the decade.
Pet Party Popularity:
Additionally, the APPMA survey found that 6 percent of dog owners and 3 percent of cat owners have held a holiday or birthday party for their pet. Felder falls into that category. For King Solomon's first birthday, he had a party at an area boutique for dogs. In addition to Felder renting the boutique, she gave goodie bags to the 10 dog guests and provided birthday cake for both dogs and humans. Felder, owner of Felder and Co., an event-planning firm in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, thought about all the small details. Each dog had a personalized birthday hat, and Solomon wore a blue birthday crown and a blue and white T-shirt that read, "I'm the Birthday Boy." Felder said she also asked the boutique's owner to plan dog-themed games, such as word searches, so the owners would have fun as well.

Buying Gifts, Dog Accessories:
Felder did not spare any expense when planning Solomon's party and usually does not when making purchases for him. When her dog was about 6 months old, Felder bought a fashionable Juicy Couture bag from Nordstrom so that he could be carried in style.
"His Juicy Couture carrier was $400," she said. "I was just doing my taxes and came across all the receipts for him and said to myself, 'Are you crazy?'" Crazy or not, Felder cannot imagine treating Solomon any differently. "Hopefully, I will get a lot of the need-to-spoil out of my system on him, so that when he gets human brothers and sisters, I won't be as bad," she said. Felder shows Solomon that he is loved in many ways. "I talk to him, play with him, discipline when needed, and I pray for him," she said. "I had him blessed. He has a Godfather, and he has a sizable amount of my life insurance policy." Felder added that Solomon is worth every penny.
"They say dogs are man's best friend, and truly that is what Solomon has been to me," she said. "He has been such a blessing. He has often been just what I needed to see when I have not-so-good days or just feel like throwing in the towel."
Pet Party Plans:
Not sure what you need to plan and throw a great pet party? Here are the essentials:
Figure out how many furry friends you want in attendance. Too many dogs can lead to fights if the space isn't adequate. Secure a location. Whether it's at your home or a park, make sure there's enough room for guests to run and play. Plan and send invites, make sure to invite pets and their owners. Put together two menus, one for pets and one for people. Check out local pet bakeries for delicious doggy treats that look like cupcakes and cookies. Organize games and activities that include all your guests. Decorate! Simple decorations are best; make sure they are non-toxic and safe for pets. Balloons are fine, but opt for non-latex balloons, for pets' sake. Put together gift bags for guests. Examples of treats could include toys, doggie snacks or even hats, tees or "Doggles" for cool canines. Have fun!
Here Comes The Dog Bride And Groom:
Kellee Etheridge, a mother of three -- two humans and a dog, is clear about Parker, a 2-year-old Maltese, being part of the family. He has birthday parties and has many articles of clothing. "We treat Parker just like we treat everybody else in the family," she said. When Etheridge suggested letting Parker mate with another Maltese, named Chloe, her human children, who are 11 and 15, suggested that their brother get married first. The wedding, which is currently being planned, will likely be held outdoors at the Cleveland Metroparks within the next few months. The wedding will be complete with flowers, a runner and sheer curtains all over. Parker will don a tuxedo, while his bride will wear a white gown. There also has been discussion among family members on what type of gift Parker should give Chloe. So far, family members have suggested a rhinestone crown or rhinestone collar. Etheridge said there will also be appetizers that both humans and dogs can eat. "I see it like an adult wedding," she said. "I expect humans to be dressed appropriately."