Singapore’s pet services industry is booming as more people treat pets like family. Rising demand for grooming, boarding, and tech-enabled care makes this a lucrative business opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors.
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A Growing and Promising Industry
The pet services industry in Singapore is rapidly expanding, driven by rising pet ownership, evolving consumer behavior, and a pet-loving culture that treats animals as family members. With Singaporeans spending generously on high-quality pet care, entrepreneurs and investors see strong potential in this sector.
In recent years, Singapore has witnessed a remarkable rise in the pet services industry, driven by changing lifestyles, growing pet ownership, and a cultural shift that treats pets as cherished family members. From luxury grooming salons to digital pet service platforms, the market is evolving rapidly — and entrepreneurs are taking note.
Pet services are a promising business in Singapore due to a combination of economic, cultural, and demographic factors that make the industry ripe for growth. Here's a breakdown of why this sector is so attractive for entrepreneurs and investors:
Rising Pet Ownership: More individuals and families are adopting pets due to lifestyle changes like delayed parenthood and aging populations. Pet ownership in Singapore has surged in the last decade, particularly dogs and cats.
With smaller families, delayed parenthood, and more people living alone or as couples, many Singaporeans treat pets as companions or even surrogate children. This emotional connection drives consistent demand for high-quality services. High Spending Power: Singaporeans spend SGD 1,500–3,000+ per pet annually, especially on grooming, wellness, food, and boarding.
Singaporeans spend generously on their pets — from gourmet pet food to luxury grooming and even birthday parties. The average annual spend on a pet can range from SGD 1,500 to SGD 3,000 or more. This shows strong potential for premium pricing and value-added services. Urban Lifestyle: Busy professionals rely on services like pet daycare, walking, and transport.
Singapore’s pet population is growing, especially dogs and cats. As of recent reports, there are over 114,000 licensed dogs in the country. Pet owners in Singapore are highly engaged and willing to spend on premium services and products, from organic pet food to luxury grooming. The average annual spend on pets is SGD 1,500–3,000 per pet, with higher-end services pushing that even further.
Singaporeans increasingly regard their pets — affectionately known as "furkids" — as family. This emotional bond has translated into a willingness to invest in high-quality services, whether it's grooming, daycare, or boarding. According to industry insiders, many pet owners are prioritizing their pets’ well-being on par with their own, spending on everything from organic food to personalized spa treatments.
Urban Lifestyle and Busy Schedules
Many Singaporeans work long hours or travel frequently, leading to increased reliance on: Pet boarding. Daycare. Walking and sitting services. These lifestyle factors create recurring business for service providers. Demand for Premium Services: There’s growth in luxury grooming, personalized nutrition, and holistic wellness.
Demand for Premium & Specialized Services
Beyond basic grooming and vet visits, consumers are seeking: Holistic wellness (e.g., acupuncture, physiotherapy). Customized nutrition. Smart pet gadgets. Luxury pet spas and hotels. Niche services have high margins and limited competition, making them profitable opportunities. Pet-Friendly Culture: Public spaces, cafes, and homes are increasingly pet-inclusive.
Singapore’s changing demographics — including delayed marriage, fewer children, and an aging population — have contributed to rising pet ownership. For many individuals and couples, pets offer companionship, emotional support, and a sense of responsibility. This demographic trend creates long-term demand for reliable pet care solutions.
Pet-Friendly Environment
The government is actively promoting responsible pet ownership and pet adoption through initiatives like: Project ADORE – allows adoption of mixed-breed dogs into HDB flats. Public awareness campaigns on animal welfare. More malls, parks, and cafés are becoming pet-friendly, normalizing pet-centric lifestyles. Government Support: Initiatives like Project ADORE promote adoption and responsible pet ownership.
Digital Adoption & Online Services
Digital Integration: Consumers actively use apps and e-commerce platforms for booking, shopping, and healthcare. Singapore’s digital-savvy population supports fast adoption of: Pet grooming apps. Online vet consultations. E-commerce platforms for pet supplies. Tech-enabled services provide scalable and convenient business models.
Growing Market Size & Untapped Potential
Singapore’s pet care market is worth over SGD 200 million, with double-digit growth projected in grooming, boarding, and pet food sectors. As consumer expectations rise, businesses offering consistent quality, digital booking, and exceptional customer experience can dominate the market.
Public spaces and retail outlets in Singapore are increasingly accommodating pets, reflecting a broader cultural acceptance. Cafés, shopping malls, and even some workplaces are becoming more pet-friendly, reinforcing a lifestyle shift where pets are fully integrated into daily routines. This pet-loving culture fuels demand for trustworthy services, especially for busy pet parents.
Low Entry Barrier + Room for Innovation
Starting a pet grooming salon, mobile spa, pet taxi, or training school requires moderate capital and can often be scaled. Innovations like pet tech, subscription boxes, and AI-powered apps are underdeveloped in Singapore, offering first-mover advantage.
The pet services industry in Singapore is more than just a trend — it's part of a broader lifestyle and demographic shift. With increasing emotional investment in pets, rising incomes, and supportive infrastructure, businesses that provide convenient, premium, and trustworthy services will find long-term success.
Pet services in Singapore form a diverse and fast-growing industry, catering to the country's rising population of pet owners who increasingly view their pets as family members. Here's a detailed overview of the current landscape:
Popular Pet Services Offered
Pet Grooming: Includes basic grooming, dental cleaning, skin treatments, and spa-like services. Pet Boarding and Daycare: Services range from cage-free boarding, air-conditioned suites, to 24/7 pet hotels with webcams. Veterinary Services: Advanced veterinary care, including acupuncture, physiotherapy, and emergency clinics.
Pet Transportation: Specialized pet taxis for trips to the vet, grooming salons, or pet cafes. Pet Training & Behavior Consultation: Services for obedience training, socialization, and anxiety management. Pet Cremation & Memorial Services: Dedicated services for end-of-life care and pet funerals.
Increasing number of pet-friendly cafes, parks, malls, and even condos. Pet events like Pet Expo Singapore, adoption drives, and dog runs are held regularly. Public Housing (HDB) restricts dog breeds but supports responsible ownership through Project ADORE, which allows mixed-breed dogs to be adopted into HDB flats. Public spaces and retail outlets in Singapore are increasingly accommodating pets, reflecting a broader cultural acceptance. Cafés, shopping malls, and even some workplaces are becoming more pet-friendly, reinforcing a lifestyle shift where pets are fully integrated into daily routines. This pet-loving culture fuels demand for trustworthy services, especially for busy pet parents.
Pet Retail and E-Commerce
Major players include Pet Lovers Centre, Polypet, Kohepets, Perromart, and Vanillapup. Growing trend of online pet shops offering same-day delivery, subscription services, and curated boxes. Rise of boutique stores for premium or niche pet products (organic treats, customized accessories, etc.).
Digital & Mobile Integration
Platforms like Pawfect.sg, PetBacker, and Furwy offer mobile apps for pet sitting, walking, grooming, and transport. Many grooming salons and clinics use WhatsApp or Instagram for appointment bookings, service updates, and customer engagement.
Regulatory Environment
The Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) under NParks governs animal welfare, licensing, and industry standards. Licensing is mandatory for pet boarding facilities and grooming salons. Pet owners are required to license their dogs, ensure proper microchipping, and adhere to care standards.
Government Support for Responsible Ownership. The Singapore government has recognized the growing importance of pets in society. Initiatives such as Project ADORE (Adoption and Rehoming of Dogs) promote responsible ownership and the adoption of shelter animals. Regulations around pet welfare are also evolving, encouraging the development of professional, ethical pet businesses.
Niche & Premium Trends
Demand is rising for: Raw & holistic diets. Hydrotherapy pools. Pet acupuncture. Pet birthday parties and cafes. Luxury spas and massage therapy. A Booming Market with Strong Demand. The pet grooming and boarding sector has seen rapid expansion in the past few years. More pet-centric businesses are opening in neighborhoods across the island, offering not only basic care but also premium packages that cater to a discerning clientele. The pandemic further accelerated this trend, as more people adopted pets and began working from home, fostering deeper bonds with their animals.
Business & Investment Potential
Singapore’s pet care industry is estimated to be worth over SGD 200 million, with double-digit growth expected. Strong support for startups and SMEs in the pet care space. Investors are looking into tech-enabled pet services, such as wearables, AI pet monitoring, and personalized pet health platforms. Beyond basic grooming, Singapore’s pet care industry is diversifying into niche segments. Specialized veterinary services, rehabilitation therapy, and luxury grooming studios are gaining popularity. Premium pet food made from human-grade ingredients, customized nutrition plans, and even pet birthday celebrations are in high demand.
Modern pet businesses are leveraging technology to offer:
Booking platforms for grooming, walking, and boarding (e.g., Pawfect.sg, PetBacker). Pet transport services (e.g., GrabPet, PetMate). Smart wearables for GPS tracking and health monitoring. Tele-vet consultations (e.g., ZumVet). Online stores with subscription models (e.g., Perromart, Kohepets). Pet monitoring cameras like Furbo.
Growing Digital Footprint of Pet Businesses. The industry’s online transformation is well underway. Pet businesses are leveraging social media platforms, e-commerce, and booking apps to connect with customers. From Instagram showcases of freshly groomed pets to online vet consultations, the integration of digital tools is opening new revenue streams and improving customer convenience.
Tech-enabled pet services in Singapore refer to digital and technology-driven solutions that improve convenience, efficiency, and personalization in pet care. These services leverage mobile apps, platforms, wearables, and data to enhance the experience for both pets and their owners. Here's a breakdown of what’s trending in Singapore:
These platforms allow users to book grooming, boarding, walking, training, or vet visits through apps or websites in Singapore:
Pawfect.sg – connects pet owners with verified local service providers for grooming, sitting, and walking.
PetBacker – a global platform with strong presence in Singapore; users can find pet sitters, walkers, and transporters with ratings and real-time tracking.
Furwy – offers home grooming and mobile pet spa booking directly via app.
Pet Transportation Apps.Dedicated ride-hailing or booking apps for pets and their owners. GrabPet – a Grab service offering pet-friendly rides with trained drivers. PetMate Transport – an app-based or WhatsApp booking system for safe pet transport to vets, salons, or daycares.
Pet Wearables & Smart Accessories.Tech gadgets for pets that monitor health, location, and activity. GPS Trackers (like Tractive or Kippy): Used on collars to prevent lost pets and track real-time location. Smart Collars: Monitor temperature, heart rate, and sleep quality, often connected to a mobile dashboard. Automatic Feeders & Water Dispensers: IoT-enabled devices that dispense food/water on schedule, controllable via app.
Pet Monitoring & Home Surveillance. Smart cameras like Furbo and Petcube allow pet parents to watch, talk to, and toss treats to pets remotely via smartphone. Features include bark alerts, motion detection, and even two-way audio. Increasingly popular with owners who leave pets alone for long periods.
E-Commerce & Subscription Services.Platforms like Kohepets, Perromart, and Pet Lovers Centre Online offer: Smart product suggestions based on pet breed/age. Auto-delivery subscriptions for food, litter, treats. Chatbot-based customer support and order tracking.
Tele-Veterinary & Health Apps.Virtual consultations and symptom checkers via mobile apps. Examples include: ZumVet – provides online vet consultations, prescriptions, and at-home vet visits. MyVet – digital platform for booking and managing pet medical appointments. These apps also store vaccination records, track medications, and send health reminders.
Customized Pet Wellness & Nutrition Apps.Digital platforms offering tailored diet and wellness plans based on breed, age, weight, allergies, and activity level. Some pet food startups in Singapore allow online customization and subscription-based delivery of fresh or raw meals.
Pet Insurance & Fintech Integration.Apps that simplify claims and payments for pet health insurance, integrated with mobile wallets or cards. Some use AI to process claims instantly after vet visits.
Why It’s Growing in Singapore.Tech-savvy population with high smartphone usage. Increasing demand for convenient, on-demand pet services. Rising number of dual-income households needing reliable pet support. Pet owners’ willingness to invest in safety, health, and personalized care.
Type: Luxury Pet Hotel & Spa
Website: www.thewagington.com.sg
The Wagington. Luxury pet hotel and spa with high-end suites, pool, and daycare. Known for premium experiences and exclusive clientele. One of Singapore’s most premium pet boarding and lifestyle hotels, offering luxury suites for dogs and cats. It has become a symbol of ultra-high-end pet care in the city. Designer pet suites with orthopedic bedding. Air-conditioned dog and cat boarding. Luxury grooming spa. Dog daycare and playcare. Swimming pool for dogs (Wagcademy Pool). Why It’s Successful: Premium brand appeal targeting affluent pet owners. High-end, hotel-like experience for pets. Consistent service quality and digital booking system
Type: Pet Retail & Services Chain
Website: www.petloverscentre.com
Pet Lovers Centre. Singapore’s largest pet retail and services chain. Offers retail, grooming, nutrition consults, and online delivery. One of the largest and most established pet retail chains in Southeast Asia, headquartered in Singapore with over 150 outlets regionally. Key Services: Retail of pet food, accessories, and products. In-store and mobile grooming. Vet pharmacy services and nutritional consultations. Auto-delivery and e-commerce platform. Why It’s Successful: Strong regional presence and brand trust. Omnichannel strategy combining physical retail and online delivery. Large range of services under one roof.
Type: Telemedicine & Home Vet Services
Website: www.zumvet.com
Telehealth platform offering virtual vet consults and home visits. Popular among busy, tech-savvy pet parents. ZumVet is a rising startup that offers teleconsultation with licensed vets and home visits. It has modernized the veterinary experience through convenience and tech. Key Services: Online vet consultations via app. Home vet visits and vaccinations. Prescription delivery. Digital medical records for pets.Why It’s Successful: Fills a major gap in convenient veterinary care. Appeals to busy, tech-savvy pet owners. Strong user interface and customer support.
Singapore’s pet services sector offers high growth potential, particularly in tech-enabled and premium segments. Entrepreneurs who offer convenient, ethical, and specialized services can thrive in this emotionally driven, digitally connected market.
It’s a reflection of deeper societal changes and values. Entrepreneurs who tap into this growing market with innovative, compassionate, and high-quality offerings stand to benefit immensely. As the nation continues to evolve into a pet-friendly society, the opportunities in grooming, boarding, and digital pet services are only set to grow.
