Best pet strategies to boost sales

If you have a fun, novel or cute pet that doesn't mind strangers then bring it out

It will help to keep customers amused and a bit longer at your garage sale. You'll get favorable comments when people see your dog or cat walking around with a "Not for sale" sign on its collar!

But then...

No matter how cute your dog or cat is, some people are allergic to animal fur or just plain scared of dogs, especially small children (What I mean is some small children are scared of dogs, not some people are scared of small children. Although when I think about it, some can be scary).
You should also consider the safety of your pet. They can be easily injured by getting under the feet of people or in the way of cars or being a tripping hazard.
There is also the small risk of pet snatching.
Shoppers may also bring their own dog with them for a walk and it may not mix with your pet.

Use your pet to keep the kids occupied

If you have (or can borrow) a bird in a cage, position the cage low so children can see the bird. This will keep the children occupied allowing their parents to shop a bit longer. Don't forget the "Not for sale" sign on the cage. This also works with:

Fish in a large aquarium. (A small aquarium would be too easy to tip over)
Lizards or snakes in a (secure) glass enclosure.
Mice, guinea pigs or hamsters in a cage.
Rabbits in a hutch.

If your pet doesn't like or doesn't mix with strangers then lock it away

If your pet will be too noisy or be too much of a distraction then lock it away or see if a friend or relative can take your pet to their house for the day.