JMBM IP Update: Is “Pet Friendly” A Trademark?

Many hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, real estate companies and other businesses use the phrase “pet friendly” to indicate that pets are welcome. You may be surprised to learn that the U.S. Trademark Office has recently accepted a claim that the phrase “PET FRIENDLY” has become distinctive as part of a trademark of a particular company in connection with its information services for people traveling with pets. If no third party opposes the application or seeks to cancel the registration, this company will have presumptive trademark rights that it could use to try to stop third parties from using this phrase in the travel industry and other businesses.

For more information, contact Rod Berman at 310.201.3517 or RBerman@jmbm.com.