Australia’s love affair with pets has reached new heights, and the numbers show it. As households grow increasingly attached to their furry companions, an entire industry of premium pet services — once seen as extravagant — is fast becoming mainstream. From luxury pet hotels to professional wedding chaperones, the nation is spending more on pets than ever before.

The Rise of High-End Pet Services

Pet owners are no longer just booking kennels or asking neighbours for favours when they go away. Across major cities, boutique pet hotels now offer climate-controlled suites, gourmet meals, spa treatments, and even CCTV access so owners can check in at any time.

For particularly busy households, daily dog-walking services have become standard. Some operators now run fully scheduled programs that resemble childcare — complete with pickup vans, enrichment activities, and supervised socialisation groups.

And for special occasions? Professional pet chaperones, particularly for weddings, have surged in demand. Their job: transport the pet, groom them, supervise them throughout the event, and make sure they appear in photographs without causing chaos.

Why Are We Spending More?

Several factors fuel this boom:

1. Pets as Family Members

Australians increasingly see pets as integral parts of the household. Surveys show owners are more likely to spoil their pets, rearrange social plans for them, and purchase specialised products — from designer beds to interactive toys and premium diets.

2. Pandemic Habits That Never Went Away

During COVID-19, pet ownership soared. As people returned to workplaces, many sought services like dog daycare and walkers to help maintain their pets’ routines and emotional wellbeing.

3. A Growing Pet Economy

Businesses have responded with innovation. What once seemed over the top — pet birthday parties, canine fitness classes, even pet aromatherapy — now has a stable and growing customer base.

The Cost of Pet Parenthood

With rising expectations comes rising expenses. Owners now often budget hundreds, if not thousands, annually for pet-related services. Beyond essentials like food and vet care, many willingly pay for:

  • boarding with luxury amenities

  • professional grooming

  • specialised training

  • behaviour consultants

  • transportation services

  • bespoke accessories

Some pet owners admit the spending rivals what they would set aside for human family members — and they’re okay with that.