A growing phenomenon

Did you know that 23% of households worldwide share their homes with pets¹? The booming pet industry includes 522 million dogs and 445 million cats¹. While cats typically rank secondary, 48% of Romanians own cats, giving Romania the highest share of cat owners worldwide¹. Brazil features the world’s most significant number of small dogs¹. 

Interestingly, Millennials with Gen Z dominate pet ownership, with 65% of Millennials planning to acquire a pet by 2025¹. Seventy percent¹ consider pets family members. The global pet treat is expected to grow by 5%¹ (CAGR 24/28 in value) and pet healthcare by 7% for pet healthcare (CAGR 24/28 in value)¹. Read on to explore recent innovations in pet-friendly experiences and little luxuries!

Pet pampering

Pet parents are advocating for a world in which their animal companions are welcomed everywhere— in their communities, places of work, and increasingly, while traveling. Sixty-five percent plan to travel with their pets next year and 47% would cancel a non-pet-friendly vacation. Recognizing the trend, some global hotel chains now cater to travelers and their pets, offering on-demand pet health, wellness, and behavioral support. Expect an uptick in customized adventures for people to bond with their pets, including walking tours, training weekends, eco breaks, spa days, and more.  Travel operators leverage AI to craft personalized travel itineraries, building digital pet-friendly communities and reaching “always connected” pet families. The travel industry taps into pet parents’ $259 billion annual budget as hotels, restaurants, and tours cater to four-legged companions. 

By 2030, the global pet industry—including vet care, pet food, and pharmaceuticals—will balloon from $320 billion to $500 billion annually. Luxury coat care products mark the ultimate indulgence for pets. In 2007, London’s Harrods department store introduced a dog perfume called Sexy Beast. The late Queen Elizabeth II made a lasting impression by launching Happy Hounds dog cologne in 2022. British retailer Space NK offers a dog spray with “crisp top notes,” while Kiehl’s, owned by L’Oréal, sells a cuddly coat spritz for £18. The newest entry, Fefé, Dolce & Gabbana’s first luxury dog fragrance, can be found in a green lacquered glass bottle with a 24-carat gold-plated paw emblem!

Symrise partners for pet food & care

Today’s pet parents involve their animals more than ever, extending their healthy shopping habits to their pet product choices. Symrise leads in creating sustainable, high-value solutions that enhance the well-being of pets and the satisfaction of their owners. At Panelis expert measurement centers, Symrise observes what cats and dogs genuinely enjoy, gathering insights directly from pets. Using Yummypets’ engaged global community data, they also understand owners’ perceptions and buying habits.

Band together to create a better world for pets—fun, accessible, and inclusive. Helping pets and travelers create lifelong memories has become an asset. Share your thoughts below on which pet-friendly developments excite you!

¹ Source: Euromonitor – https://www.euromonitor.com/

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