NEW SMYRNA BEACH — Rocko Doppler Westerfield, a 9-week-old Boston terrier puppy, stayed calm but looked a little uncertain as owner Jessica Westerfield and sales associate Kim Norse slipped a set of Christmas antlers on his head to see how they fit. Rocko left without his headgear, but Norse’s employer, Vicki Wagner, co-owner of Silly Willie’s pet boutique, said customers have been snapping up items like the antlers, edible dog treats called “chicken people,” stuffed animals, squeaky toys and holiday outfits for their pets. Owners often bring in their dogs to try on pet outfits, she said, or to find out if their dog is the right size for a stroller or carrier before buying it. For the more fashion-conscious pet, there are designer stuffed dog toys at Tailblazers Pet Salon and Dog Star Boutique, such as “Vera Wag” high heels, a “Sniff Army” watch or “Grrrizon cell bone. Owner Kitty Forguson said customers come in looking for her premium pet food, as well as staple items like chew toys, collars, leashes and seasonal bandanas. read more

Tags: antlers, hypoallergenic dogs, boutique, dog, boys, toys