When you go to a farmer's market, don't be surprised when you ask how old the baby in the carrier or sling is, only to be given a peak and discover a healthy, mature dog panting and smiling back at your inquisitive eyes. California has gone to the dogs, and sometimes the love affair seems cute, while other times the habits of pet owners seem perplexing-maybe even obsessive. Around three-fourths of dog owners think of their pet as a family member-and many seem to treat the dog better than their children.

At a swap meet a senior couple sat on a park bench snacking on a muffin. Their little chihuahua sat on the man's lap and tried to win his heart for some snacks (it worked). "This is our child," said the man, "though I blame my wife for spoiling our little baby."

The trends are clear. While some businesses are losing market share, pet products are on the rise, thanks to those who own dogs and are pampering them with best foods, finest clothes, and even toys. In fact, pet products now outpace toy sales- people in the U.S. spend several billion dollars more on pet goods than they do on toys for kids.

Californians own the most dogs of any state in the U.S., spend the most money as taxpayers to have unwanted dogs euthenized (including 25% that are purebreds), and insurance companies pay out more money in dog bite settlements in California than any other state. With some of the most comprehensive laws dealing with dog bites, owners will normally be found liable in dog bite cases that occur in public places.

If you are having trouble coping with the loss of a pet, you can get grief counseling. If your pet has behavioral issues, there's an expert who talks to your pet and will tell you what the critter says. And if you miss a dog that has died, there's a person who talks to pets on the "other side". Here are a few unique resources such as pet communicators and psychics to help people appreciate their family members (dogs) even more!