Pet Industry
The pet industry was estimated at $97 billion dollars in 2019 and grew to $99 billion by 2020. In just one year that is almost $2 billion worth of growth for this industry. An average of 4.5% increase annually up to 2025 for the pet industry. Now these numbers are massive and that simply means a lot of income for business owners in this industry. Why then will it grow that much?
What is Pet Humanization?
Have you heard the ‘fur parents’ and ‘fur babies’ words? I think we have, though we might not have paid attention to it. Nowadays, you will see pets, mainly dogs, and cats, dressed up with matching accessories. Pets with leashes and carriers that probably look more exclusive than your leatherette office bag. Pet humanization is a natural expression of the “pets as family” trend, whereby pet owners treat their pets like children and are highly receptive to products similar to the ones they use for themselves. According to a Harris poll, 95% of owners think of their animal as a member of the family.
It is noteworthy that the pet humanization trend is influenced by human factors. It’s a two-way street. People who have pets tend to have lower blood pressure, heart rate and heart-disease risk than those who don’t. Those health boons may come from the extra exercise that playing and walking require, and the stress relief of having a steady best friend on hand. There is a medical study though small but has impressive benefits that lead to animal therapy. This leads to pet owners wanting the best for their fur babies in a way similar to providing to their kids.
This is actually good for the pet industry, more specifically those businesses catering to pet care and needs. Veterinary and grooming services are not far behind. These businesses are more sustainable and with the trend of “pets as family” consumers are expected to spend more for their fur babies. More than 67% of American households own at least one pet, and with the industry worth $97 billion it is expected to grow 4.5% annually up to 2025. There is a lot of opportunity here, but it’s not all business though, as this also leads to better treatment and welfare of pets overall.
Which Business to Look Into?
It would be silly not to throw in a few names of businesses that is promising to franchise. However, let’s focus on the sector that is on demand, has growth and stability. Yes, food, clothing, veterinary are all promising businesses. Now, pet care services are becoming mainstream. See what these brands are all about and what would interest you most to have ownership.
Dogtopia
Daycare, boarding, and spa. Yes, their services are basically the same with child day care. As much as fur parents would want to spend time with their furry babies, most of them need to go to work. Dogtopia provides that safe, pet-friendly, clean, and sociable place for your dog as you go to work. Another part of their service is for short and even long-term boarding. If you need to be somewhere for a period of time, you can have the peace of mind that your fur baby will be well taken-care-of. As much happiness as our pets give us, we want to return the favor and you can give them a treat in a Dogtopia spa to get clean and groomed. Opened in 2002 and started franchising in 2005, Dogtopia now has over 180 dog day care centers across America and Canada. There are still more locations available for this business.
Fetch
They have pet sitting, overnight care and similar services to other pet care centers, but what’s interesting is they offer pet taxis. A qualified pet sitter will pick up and accompany your pet to any appointment. Not every pet is equal as some admittedly need more care. Fetch can focus on medical administration matched with qualified pet sitters not just to administer medicines but to assure that your fur baby is comfortable in the process, and this would definitely appeal to a number of pet owners. Fetch started back in 2002 so pet owners can be assured that pet sitters are qualified and well trained.
Doody Calls
They pick up where your dog left off. That’s one easy catch phrase, and really a catchy name. It’s also easy to relate to what service they offer, waste management. Doody Calls has 21 years of waste scooping, and they really mean business after your pet’s business. They offer easy to book appointments and cater to residential and commercial places. Considering the industry growth for pet owners and establishments this service is relevant and will be stable for the coming years.
Bubbly Paws
Bubbly Paws is an upscale dog wash & grooming business with optional membership. What makes this franchise notable is they have self-service grooming. Yes, if you want to get close and personal with the best kit to learn how to groom your fur baby, this place is ideal. Nonetheless, they have professional pet grooming and should you wish for your pet’s most rewarding experience. Another advantage of Bubbly Paws is they have their own brand for pet accessories and grooming which receives very good reviews from members.
The Pet Industry is forecasted with promising and more importantly, steady growth. Statistics showing millennials and gen Z’s willing to spend for premium products and services; this industry is a promising place to start your franchise ownership. Whatever your preferences when it comes to business, we can help find the franchise best suited for you, all the while working with fur babies.