Follow That Dog!

An article in the Philadelphia Inquirer posits the theory that one sign of gentrification is the presence of dogs in a neighborhood. And not just dogs, but all the accessories that come with them.

Pointing to the Philly neighborhood of Northern Liberties as an example, the article states that twenty years ago "dogs were as rare as a parked BMW. But as Northern Liberties went from edgy to trendy, the canine pack grew."

Part of the reason is delayed parenting practiced by the young professionals who have moved into the neighborhood. It seems that developers have followed their trail for years. "As a developer, you'd be a fool not to recognize what dogs can mean," said developer Charles Abdo. "That's where the money is."

Clearly those who are in the pet industry have also picked up the scent. Doggie boutiques are popping up on every corner; dog parks are flourishing as are dog walkers and pet sitters. Groomers are raking it in. According to Stanley Coren, a psychology professor at the University of British Columbia, "Retailers know it and always go to where their [young professionals] demographics are."

According to every thing I have read, the pet industry seems to be holding its own in this economy. It seems that parents will always indulge their offspring, even if they are covered with fur.