Pet Boarding Service Market

Pet Boarding Service Market size was valued at USD 1.2 Billion in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 2.5 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.2% from 2026 to 2033.

Pet Boarding Service Market Overview

The global pet boarding service market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the rising number of pet owners, increasing disposable incomes, and the growing humanization of pets. As of 2024, the market is estimated to be valued at approximately USD 8.3 billion, and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 6.5% from 2025 to 2032. This would bring the total market value to over USD 13 billion by 2032. Pet owners are increasingly viewing their pets as family members, and demand for premium services such as luxury boarding, personalized care, and on-call veterinarians is growing steadily.

Urbanization, dual-income households, and busy lifestyles are also key contributors to the rising preference for professional pet boarding services. As more people travel for work or leisure, the need for safe, high-quality temporary care solutions for pets has surged. Additionally, the rise in awareness about pet welfare has shifted consumer preference from traditional kennels to modern, well-equipped pet resorts and daycare centers. Technological advancements like real-time pet monitoring through mobile apps, integrated healthcare tracking, and AI-based activity reports are further transforming the boarding experience, making it safer and more transparent for pet owners.

Moreover, regulatory support in many countries promoting animal welfare has pushed service providers to upgrade their facilities and ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards. This has created a positive market environment that supports long-term growth. Another important trend is the increase in adoption of rescue animals and companion pets during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly boosted the customer base for boarding services. The market is also seeing new entrants and start-ups with innovative service models, subscription packages, and mobile-based bookings, reshaping the competitive landscape.

Pet Boarding Service Market Segmentation

1. By Pet Type

• Dogs: Dogs make up the largest share of the pet boarding service market. Their social and active nature requires regular attention and exercise, making dog owners more likely to use boarding services. Premium services such as doggy daycare, grooming, and obedience training are widely offered. The trend of offering breed-specific care and custom play zones for dogs is gaining traction. As per 2024 data, dogs represent over 60% of all boarded animals globally.
• Cats: Cats account for the second-largest segment, favored for their quieter, more independent behavior. However, cat-specific boarding services are increasing, offering isolated, quieter environments to reduce stress. Providers are integrating features such as feline suites, cat trees, and climbing structures to enhance comfort. Specialized care for senior cats or cats with health conditions is also gaining popularity.
• Small Mammals: This segment includes rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and ferrets. Though smaller in volume compared to dogs and cats, the demand is growing among urban pet owners. Boarding facilities are creating habitat-mimicking enclosures, and staff are being trained in species-specific dietary and care needs. Seasonal boarding, especially during school holidays, sees a rise in bookings for these pets.
• Birds and Exotic Pets: A niche but growing segment, boarding services for parrots, reptiles, turtles, and other exotic pets are becoming available in urban and affluent areas. These services require specialized staff and enclosures, often driving up costs but also providing a premium niche opportunity. Custom feeding schedules and temperature-controlled environments are often part of the package.

2. By Service Type

• Overnight Boarding: This is the most common service, offering accommodation for pets when owners are away overnight or for extended periods. Facilities range from basic kennels to luxury suites with webcams and personal caretakers. Hygiene, temperature control, and 24/7 veterinary support are key differentiators. The segment accounts for the bulk of market revenue, especially during holiday seasons.
• Daycare Services: Ideal for working professionals, daycare services offer supervision, socialization, and exercise for pets during daytime hours. These services are particularly popular for dogs that require regular interaction. Many facilities provide add-ons such as training sessions, agility play areas, and grooming. The rise of pet-friendly urban infrastructure is supporting growth in this segment.
• Medical Boarding: These services cater to pets with special medical needs or recovering from surgery. Operated in collaboration with veterinary clinics or under direct veterinary supervision, they offer medication administration, wound care, and regular health checks. The rising awareness of chronic conditions in pets is contributing to segment growth.
• Luxury & Boutique Services: This high-end segment includes premium features like spa treatments, aromatherapy, swimming pools, and custom meals. Pet owners who are willing to pay more for upscale experiences are fueling the growth of this niche. Boutique boarding facilities often market themselves through exclusivity, customer loyalty programs, and personalized pet reports.

3. By Booking Channel

• Offline Booking: Traditional methods such as phone calls or in-person visits still dominate in rural and semi-urban areas. Many long-standing boarding facilities have strong local reputations and rely on word-of-mouth advertising. However, this method lacks scalability and ease of access, limiting its growth in the digital era.
• Online Booking (Web Portals): A rapidly expanding channel, online bookings through service websites allow customers to view services, check availability, and make payments online. These platforms offer convenience, digital records, and customer support features, making them highly popular among tech-savvy urban pet owners. Loyalty rewards and subscription models are often integrated.
• Mobile Apps: Mobile-based platforms are transforming how pet boarding services are accessed, especially among younger consumers. These apps enable real-time communication, updates via photos/videos, GPS tracking, and digital report cards. Some apps also feature review systems, instant re-booking, and access to emergency veterinary support. As of 2024, this channel is seeing the fastest growth among millennials and Gen Z pet owners.
• Third-party Aggregators: These platforms list multiple service providers, allowing users to compare pricing, ratings, and availability. Much like ride-hailing or home-rental apps, aggregators offer convenience and variety, often taking a commission on each booking. These platforms are increasingly influencing customer choices, especially in metropolitan markets.

4. By End User

• Individual Pet Owners: Representing the largest consumer base, individual pet owners use boarding services for travel, emergencies, or work-related absences. The growing trend of treating pets like family members is encouraging the demand for safe, comfortable, and engaging boarding environments. Personalization, convenience, and reviews influence their decision-making process.
• Breeders and Trainers: These professionals often utilize boarding services during competitions, breeding cycles, or for temporary care. Their needs are specific and may include isolation, temperature regulation, or health monitoring. Professional partnerships with boarding providers help in repeat business and revenue stability.
• Animal Welfare Organizations: Shelters and rescue centers occasionally rely on boarding facilities for overflow situations or during rehabilitation phases. These users seek budget-friendly yet humane options. Increasing animal adoption rates are likely to result in higher demand from this segment, especially in urban zones with limited shelter space.
• Corporate Clients & Expatriates: Multinational companies and expat communities often require long-term boarding when relocating employees. These clients value premium services, safety standards, and bilingual staff. Customized service plans and long-term contracts are typically offered to cater to their unique needs.

Conclusion

The pet boarding service market is evolving rapidly, influenced by changing lifestyles, increased pet ownership, and a growing emphasis on animal welfare and premium services. With strong growth projections over the next decade, service providers are expected to innovate continuously in offerings, customer engagement, and technology adoption. Expansion into emerging markets, integration of smart monitoring systems, and diversification of services to cater to medical and luxury segments will define the future of the industry. The market's ability to balance affordability, quality care, and personalization will be the key to sustaining growth and building long-term customer loyalty.