Pets on the Runway

If it's become almost main-stream to dress dogs in human-inspired fashions, then why not host a fashion show for them? In 2007, we saw Pet Fashion Week take place in New York, but this weekend, Tokyo held a canine-exclusive runway show at the New Year Dog Party.

Strutting the catwalk (dogwalk?) was a perfectly groomed four-legged models, a thrilling sight for the approximately 20,000 canine-loving spectators that had gathered for the event.

Picture tall greyhounds in Rasta hats, poodles in polka dots and cute little shih-tzus dressed like hardcore bikers. "The pièce de résistance was a £10,000 Swarovski crystal-studded dog coat on the back of a dachsund, created by the canine fashion designer Manfred of Sweden," according to the Independent.

It wasn't just fashion at the event either; over 60 companies gathered to display accessories and pet homes as well as services like doggy yoga classes, resorts and spas.

"One in five families has a dog in Japan and they are treated not like pets, but like part of the family," even producer, Kumi Shiraishi said.

"As our population is declining, fewer women are having babies, more people are working and many people feel lonely. As a result, a pet dog is the perfect companion. Sooner or later, the number of pet dogs will be higher than the number of children. That is how much Japan loves its dogs."

While humanizing animals may have some people barking mad, it can't be denied that there is a huge market for pet products, from fashion to pet rental services.