Valentine’s Day is no longer only for lovers. Pets now have their paws in it, too.

The growing trend to acknowledge pets on Valentine’s Day is evident in the merchandise tiffany displayed in many local pet stores. Plush toys, treats, bandanas and rhinestone accessories are available in shapes and colors to suit Valentine’s Day.

Area pet stores and grooming salons notice an increase in sales around this time of the year, also. According to Curtis Rost, manager of Pets-N-You in Wilkes-Barre, the busiest seasons are Christmas and Valentine’s Day.

Specials on pictures and primping are offered at PETCO in Wilkes-Barre Township on valentines earrings Valentine’s Day, along with a party for the pets. Naomi Lineburg, a PETCO employee, said this annual event always draws a crowd.

“It’s surprising how many people show up,” Lineburg said.

Bonnie Fenner, owner of Bonnie’s Grooming Gallery in Wilkes-Barre, confirms Valentine’s Day always brings an increase in business. And this year is one of the busiest, despite the economy.

She believes pet owners find comfort in taking care of their pets.

“They don’t worry about expenses,” she said. “As long as their best friend looks and smells valentines money clips pretty.”

Pet owners are the first to admit there is no love comparable to the special love bestowed upon them by their pets. Many pets are considered part of the family. Few human companions eagerly greet them at the door daily, or snuggle with them in sadness.

Tom Venti of Dunmore is an avid dog lover. He has had a dog in his life since he was 3 years old. He plans to never live without one because he believes only a dog can provide him with comfort and solace in the best and worst of times.

“They have traits and qualities of which I’ve rarely found in human beings,” he said.

Venti intends to get his dog some heart-shaped doggie treats for the holiday.

Nanticoke resident Teddi Janosov always had pets in her life.

“Pets are the only ones who love you unconditionally,” she said. “They can get you through sad, happy, or in-between times.”

When Janosov began dating her husband, he showed up at her door with an 8-week old puppy. Since neither had pet leases, they had to take Gussy back and forth between homes until they married. Gussy was with them for 15 years.

Over the years, Janosov, a former volunteer at the SPCA, has opened her heart and valentines pendants home to many stray or unwanted animals. Her current companions are Miset, a stray cat, and Quincy, a dog from the Bouvier Flanders Rescue Group.

“Every day is Valentine’s Day for them,” Janosov said. “They’re always loved.”

Laura Katrenicz, Exeter, loves animals. She can’t imagine her life without them. She lives with two dogs and several cats.

“They are great company,” she said. “You are never alone when you have animals.”