During the economic "new normal" of economic lethargy, U.S. pet owners remain focused on value, necessitating that U.S. marketers and retailers do the same. Affordable pricing is a key consideration, but so are premium-style products with functional (health) and indulgence (pampering) attributes appealing to people and pets alike. Accordingly, stylish, distinctly “human-style” products and brands continue to make waves in the market, even as lower-priced private labels—often directly comparable to their national brand counterparts—continue to gain traction.