Has the world gone pet crazy or has humanity just woken up to the realization of how important dogs and cats are to our lives? There have always been a few eccentric people who prized their pets and lavished them with luxuries. But today it's fair to say that domestic dogs and cats have gone through an evolution of status, from animal to pet and family member. Today, it's perfectly normal to spend a sizeable amount of money, time and emotional energy on the health and happiness of our dogs and cats. And why not? We love them!

A good measure of how far our pets have been elevated in status is in how the world is now catering to them, and to their owners. The largest pet stores don¡¯t even sell dogs and cats. They sell products and services for dogs and cats, while encouraging and facilitating pet adoption from shelters. And of course, pets get to come along for the shopping. Even if you aren¡¯t in a pet store, you¡¯re likely to find trendy new items for your dog or cat in a variety of other stores. Makers of ¡°people products¡± such as Old Navy, Harley Davidson and Paul Mitchell now have their own lines of pet products.

The traditional dog bath has gone out the window, and is being replaced by professional grooming and spa treatments. Cats still lick themselves meticulously, but their efforts can be enhanced by special kitty dry mousse shampoos that get them clean without having to go near water.

When traveling, it used to be a hard to find hotels that allowed pets. Now, pets are not just ¡°allowed¡± in some hotels, they get the royal treatment. Some hotels graciously welcome pets with special pet pillows, treats, toys, even a licensed doggie masseuse.

At home, we¡¯re giving much more thought to our pets¡¯ well being while we¡¯re away. People are less likely to leave their pets at home all day with food and water and little to do. Now there are toys designed to keep them occupied and special DVDs for their entertainment. Many owners go a step further and take their pets to a doggie daycare for play and/or exercise and body conditioning. (Cats are still staying at home, because they generally prefer their own territory.)

But possibly nowhere is it more evident that our pets are our family members than in the explosion of luxury and designer pet products. Staple products, such as bowls, collars, leashes, toys, beds and crates have gone through design transformations to make them more stylish, more comfortable, safer or smarter. And new items have emerged to solve old problems. The best pampering, we believe, are products that appeal to your dog or cat's nature and make them more comfortable or happy. You¡¯ll find some of these products in our Cat's Eye View and Discerning Dog sections .

Are we spoiling our pets when we lavish them with the latest creature comforts? When we indulge them with toys and treats? When we actively include them in our lives? It's more likely we¡¯re spoiling ourselves. Whatever amount of love and attention we give our pets, they always seem to give us more in return.

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How about this for pampering your pooch?