This essay presents a personalized account that reflects some well-documented aspects of pets as animal companions -- especially as they relate to the case of Rocky the Cat. The narrative begins with some oft-mentioned ramifications of viewing pets as friends and family. The common ingredient --...

This introduction lays the groundwork for a special issue of the Journal of Business Research devoted to "Animal Companions, Consumption Experiences, and the Marketing of Pets." After some preliminary comments on the relevant background, the editors develop a conceptual scheme - based on a...