In an economic recession, what happens to pet care?

 If you’re like most pet owners, you treat your furry friend as well as — if not better than — you do yourself.

A recent poll of female shoppers found that while about 68 percent of  women were willing to switch brands of their OTC medications and certain staples to save cash, only 29 percent would change their brand of pet food. And the American Pet Products Association forecasts that total pet spending in 2009 will reach $45.4 billion, up from $43.2 billion in 2008. Given the state of the economy, that’s pretty impressive, and tells a lot about how Fido and Fluffy get treated. But just because you want to give your pets the best doesn’t mean you have to sit back and watch your bills escalate. Instead, try these smart tips from Goodhousekeeping for spending less — while still showering them with love.

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