Posted on 25th Jul 2011 @ 1:19 PM

Though the discipline known as ergonomics is relatively new, it has already brought numerous improvements to people who work in an office, assemble products on an assembly line, or even drive a car. Ergonomic chairs can prevent back pain, wrist braces can reduce carpal tunnel syndrome, and easy-to-use dashboard controls can help decrease distracted driving. Not surprisingly, entrepreneurs are always trying to figure out other areas where ergonomics can have an impact.

But sometimes, these new ideas can be pretty baffling. Exhibit A: ergonomic products for pets.

Really?

Believe it or not, there are numerous companies who are touting so-called ergonomic pet products to help improve the well-being of your dog or cat. (As if that were possible.) Here is a partial list of the "ergonomic products for pets" available for purchase.

Secure Snuggler® Pet Bed. What (ostensibly) sets this pet bed apart from its competition is the "ergonomic memory foam pillow" with matching memory foam mattress. Strangely enough, the product description does not provide any scientific studies indicating the comforts that ergonomic memory foam provides which cannot be obtained from much less expensive dog beds. But you will have the honor of paying $129 for it.

Manchester Pet Feeder. This product does actually perform an ergonomic function. The small table raises a dog's food about six inches off of the ground, which aids digestion for bigger dogs because it prevents them from having to stretch their necks down to the ground to eat. On the other hand, there's no recorded research promoting the additional gastrointestinal benefits of granite tops, antique brass hardware, solid mahogany cabinetry, and a monogrammed engraved plaque. However, if you don't have a crate, footrest, or box - but do have at least $179 burning a hole in your pocket - then this product is for you.

simplehuman® 25-Liter Pet Food Storage Can. Why store a bag of dog or cat food in a cabinet or pantry, inside a plastic container, or on a shelf? Instead, you can purchase this innovative accessory for just $100. No, seriously. This pet food storage can hypes its "ergonomic lock-tite handle" that forms an airtight seal to keep pet food from spoiling. (Never mind that dry dog and cat food will retain their freshness for at least four months in the bag.) The container also sits on wheels and features a fingerprint-proof finish. And perhaps your dog or cat will appreciate the chic style that it adds to the pet dining area.

Pet owners love to pamper their pooches and kitties, and some spend a lot of money to do just that. But even the most "extreme" dog or cat lover shouldn't shell out their hard-earned cash for a product simply because it contains a five-dollar word like "ergonomic" in the title. Unless there is solid research which proves their effectiveness, these ergonomic pet products are heavy on marketing and light on science.