Face masks have become an essential part of our wardrobe this year.

And apparently, people who like to match outfits with their pets have really committed to the bit.

A company that makes face masks for pets has reported a 500% increase in sales since coronavirus hit.

Pet Masks, which is based in New York, began making their products to protect animals from air pollution, but have found that sales unexpectedly rocketed due to the pandemic.

Pet Masks’ founder, Salitia Henwick, 27, said: ‘Our sales have increased by about 500 percent.

‘It used to be people would just buy them if they stay in very polluted cities or as a novelty accessory.’

The masks, which can be fitted to cats or dogs, cost $25 USD each and come in three sizes.

According to the Pet Masks website, a small would suit a Maltese, a medium would be great for a corgi and a large would fit a Labrador.

The World Health Organisation initially suggested that canines could not contract COVID-19, but on March 19 the Hong Kong government released a statement saying that two dogs had tested positive.

But there’s no official word on there being any benefits to animals wearing face masks.

‘There is confusion about coronavirus and pets, because the World Health Organisation just removed their advisory on pets getting coronavirus,’ said Salitia.

‘But there are cases of dogs testing positive for coronavirus.

‘So we will inform our customers of what legitimate news publications are saying as it happens.

‘Until we properly understand this new virus, the best thing we can do is take good care of ourselves and our pets.’

The company is advising that Pet Masks should be worn when the animals are outside, or in contact with people who are unwell.

‘Please do not abandon your pets in a crisis like this,’ Salitia added.

‘Our feedback from customers is that the masks are very comfortable and their pets are very happy walking around in them.

‘To help pets adjust to their masks make sure you get the correct size according to our site and make sure the straps are not cutting into them.

‘Also, on their first time, don’t leave it on for too long, so they can get used to it slowly.

‘We are hoping a vaccine will be found soon…until then please protect yourselves and your pets with appropriate masks.’

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