Pet Travel Services Market

Pet Travel Services Market Size and Share:

The global pet travel services market size was valued at USD 2.3 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 4.3 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.94% during 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 38.9% in 2024. The rising number of pet owners, rapidly increasing international travel activities, and the widescale integration of advanced technologies represent some of the key factors driving the market growth.

The pet travel services market is driven by the increasing humanization of pets, with pet owners viewing them as family members and seeking high-quality care during travel. Rising disposable incomes and pet ownership rates, particularly among millennials, further boost the demand for specialized services. Growth in international travel, along with stricter airline policies for pet transportation, has amplified the need for professional services ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. Additionally, advancements in pet-friendly accommodations and travel infrastructure have encouraged pet owners to include their pets in travel plans. For instance, in May 2024, Akasa Air raised the weight limit for pets traveling in the cabin from 7 kg to 10 kg, including the weight of the container, in response to customer feedback. The airline declared that this improvement demonstrates its dedication to consistently improving its offerings to satisfy the changing demands of passengers. An awareness about animal welfare and the availability of tailored services, such as pet concierge and luxury travel packages, also contribute significantly to market growth.

In the United States, the pet travel services market is driven by the increasing humanization of pets, with owners treating them as family members and prioritizing their comfort and safety during travel. Rising pet ownership, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, coupled with higher disposable incomes, fuels the demand for premium travel services. The growth of domestic and international travel, alongside stricter airline pet transport regulations, underscores the need for professional services. For instance, in April 2024, BARK, Inc., a well-known worldwide omnichannel dog brand, announced a collaboration with a jet charter company to launch BARK Air, which enables dogs and their human friends traveling together in comfort and convenience. Additionally, the expansion of pet-friendly accommodations and destinations, advancements in pet tracking and safety technology, and heightened awareness of animal welfare further propel market growth in the U.S.

Pet Travel Services Market Trends:

Rising Pet Ownership and Humanization Trends

The growing number of pet owners and the increasing humanization of pets drive demand for pet travel services. Many owners view their pets as family members, emphasizing their inclusion in travel plans. This trend fuels the need for specialized travel options, including pet-friendly accommodations, airlines, and transport services tailored to pets’ needs, ensuring their safety and comfort. For instance, in October 2024, Starwood Pet Travel, a leader in international pet relocation and pet transportation, announced the launch of its industry-leading Pet Travel Portal. This online platform is designed to ease the procedure of moving with pets, presenting a comprehensive, user-friendly familiarity for pet owners worldwide.

Growth of Domestic and International Tourism

The expansion of domestic and international tourism has encouraged pet owners to bring their pets along for vacations. With rising disposable incomes and an emphasis on leisure travel, pet-friendly tourism packages and transportation have become vital. Pet owners are seeking travel services that provide convenience, compliance with regulations, and assurance of their pets’ well-being during transit. For instance, in July 2024, GlobalVetLink (GVL), the leader in compliance management solutions for veterinary practices, announced the launch of its innovative Pet Travel Concierge Service. This new service is designed to ease the complexities of international pet travel, ensuring a smooth experience for veterinari ans and pet owners alike.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety Concerns

Stricter regulations and heightened safety concerns around pet travel have driven the demand for professional pet travel services. For instance, in October 2024, at Kochi airport, an Animal Quarantine & Certification Services (AQCS) facility was established. In keeping with the government's pledge to improve the "ease of living" for pet owners, the Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying in India opened a facility stating that it is a major step in easing the import of pet dogs and cats. Owners seek assurance that their pets will meet travel requirements, including vaccinations, documentation, and quarantine protocols. Services that provide compliance and prioritize the health and safety of pets are becoming increasingly essential.

Pet Travel Services Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global pet travel services market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on type, travel type, application, and booking type.

Analysis by Type:

• Dogs
• Cats
• Others
   

Dogs stand as the largest component in 2024, holding around 60.2% of the market. Dogs hold the largest share in the pet travel services market due to their widespread ownership and popularity as travel companions. As social and active animals, dogs are more likely to accompany their owners on trips compared to other pets. The high emotional bond between dog owners and their pets drives demand for professional travel services to ensure their safety and comfort. Additionally, dogs require specific transportation arrangements, such as secure carriers and airline-compliant crates, further boosting market demand. The availability of dog-friendly accommodations, parks, and destinations also encourages owners to include them in travel plans, supporting this market dominance.

 Analysis by Travel Type:

• Domestic
• International
   

Domestic leads the market with around 73.2% of the market share in 2024. The domestic segment holds the largest share of the pet travel services market due to the convenience and frequency of domestic travel compared to international trips. Pet owners often prefer traveling shorter distances for vacations, relocations, or events, which are easier to manage logistically and financially. The increasing availability of pet-friendly accommodations, transportation options, and destinations within countries encourages domestic travel with pets. Additionally, fewer regulatory and documentation requirements for domestic travel reduce complexity, making it a more accessible option for pet owners. Rising pet ownership and awareness of specialized services further drive demand for domestic pet travel services

Analysis by Application:

• Transportation
• Relocation
   

Transportation holds the largest share of the pet travel services market as it addresses the primary need for moving pets safely and efficiently. Whether for relocations, vacations, or vet visits, pet owners rely on professional services to manage logistics, especially for long-distance or complex travel. Specialized transportation ensures compliance with regulations, offers secure carriers, and provides climate-controlled environments, catering to pets’ comfort and safety. Increasing pet ownership, rising awareness of animal welfare, and growing international relocations further boost demand for these services. Additionally, advancements in tracking technologies and premium options, like luxury transportation, enhance convenience, solidifying transportation’s dominance in the market.

Analysis by Booking Type:

• Online and Phone Bookings
• Offline Bookings
   

Bookings and offline bookings hold the largest share of the pet travel services market due to the personalized nature of the services and the complexity of pet travel arrangements. Pet owners often seek direct communication with service providers to ensure safety, comfort, and regulatory compliance for their pets. Offline channels offer tailored support for specific needs, such as specialized transportation, accommodations, and documentation. Additionally, many pet owners prefer in-person consultations or phone calls to handle intricate details of travel logistics, making offline booking the preferred method. This personal touch, alongside customer trust, has helped offline bookings dominate the market.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Others
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share of over 38.9%. In North America, the pet travel services market is driven by several key factors. Rising pet ownership, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, has led to increased demand for services that cater to pets' travel needs. The humanization of pets, with owners treating them as family members, further fuels the market, as pet owners seek safe, comfortable travel options. Additionally, the growing trend of pet-friendly accommodations, transportation, and attractions enhances the convenience of traveling with pets. Increased disposable incomes allow pet owners to spend more on premium services. Regulatory changes, such as stricter airline pet policies, necessitate professional travel services to ensure compliance. Lastly, the expansion of international travel and relocations drives the demand for specialized, long-distance pet transportation.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Pet Travel Services Market Analysis

In 2024, the United States accounted for the market share of over 82%. The expansion of pet travel services in the United States is mainly influenced by rising pet ownership and the changing human-animal relationship, as more individuals consider pets as part of their family. For instance, the number of pet owners has notably grown, as the dog population escalated from 52.9 Million in 1996 to 89.7 Million in 2024, while the cat population expanded from 59.8 Million to 73.8 Million. The increasing trend in pet ownership leads to a heightened demand for specialized Pet Travel Services to meet the needs of pets on the go. This trend has resulted in an increased need for pet-friendly lodging, transport, and various travel-related services. Moreover, pet owners are progressively seeking convenience and comfort for their pets, leading to the growth of specialized services like pet relocation and in-flight care for animals. Additionally, the rise of pet tourism has driven the creation of increased pet-focused infrastructure, including airports with pet facilities and hotels providing specialized pet services. Technological advancements are crucial as pet tracking applications and online reservation systems enhance the convenience of planning pet travel. The growth of local travel, along with higher expenditures on pets, plays a major role in market expansion. Ultimately, heightened awareness of pet safety laws and the accessibility of tailored travel options designed for pets’ requirements further enhance the demand for pet travel services.

Asia Pacific Pet Travel Services Market Analysis

The pet travel services sector in the Asia-Pacific region is experiencing significant expansion, driven by urbanization and changes in lifestyle. According to reports, urbanization in Asia-Pacific, with 54% of the global urban population and expected growth of 1.2 Billion by 2050, boosts demand for pet travel services by fostering economic hubs and innovative solutions, catering to urban pet owners’ evolving needs. The expanding middle-class population in countries like China, India, and Australia is embracing pet ownership, resulting in a rise in demand for travel services. Increased participation in global pet events and competitions necessitates reliable transport for animals across countries. Rapid advancements in logistics infrastructure, like specialized freight services, enhance this demand even further. The growing consciousness about pet well-being and safety, driven by social media and advocacy groups, is encouraging the adoption of professional travel services. Pet-friendly tourism is growing, particularly in countries like Japan and South Korea, where the hospitality industry is adopting services catering to pets. The expansion of the expatriate population in the region also fuels the need for global pet relocation services. Partnerships between local airlines and pet travel companies improve processes, boosting accessibility. Furthermore, using digital tools for bookings and tracking enhances the user experience, attracting technology-savvy customers.

 Europe Pet Travel Services Market Analysis

Europe’s pet travel services market is driven by a strong culture of pet inclusivity, where pets are widely regarded as family members. The region’s highly developed tourism sector, offering extensive pet-friendly options, supports this growing demand. Increased cross-border travel within the European Union, enabled by simplified regulations like the EU Pet Passport, encourages pet owners to travel with their pets. For instance, in May 2024, European tourism expenditure is projected to reach record levels in 2024, with foreign arrivals growing by 7.2% and overnight stays increasing by 6.5% in Q1 compared to 2019, creating a significant opportunity for growth in the pet travel services market, driven by rising demand from intra-regional and long-haul travellers. The rising number of pet-friendly workplaces and vacation rentals caters to a mobile pet-owning demographic, further boosting the market. Growing awareness of sustainable practices influences the demand for eco-friendly pet travel solutions, including biodegradable pet accessories and minimal-impact transport options. Enhanced safety protocols by transport providers ensure pets' comfort during travel, appealing to a safety-conscious customer base. Pet relocation services for expatriates and diplomats add to market growth, supported by partnerships with international moving companies. The increasing popularity of adoption from foreign shelters also drives demand for inter-country pet transportation. Europe’s aging population, with seniors heavily investing in their pets’ well-being, contributes to market expansion, as they seek professional assistance for safe pet travel.

Latin America Pet Travel Services Market Analysis

The growing disposable income and increasing pet ownership are fostering the demand for pet travel services in Latin America. A cultural shift towards prioritizing pets as family members has led to higher investments in their comfort and well-being during travel. The expanding availability of pet-friendly accommodations, coupled with advancements in regional transport infrastructure, supports seamless pet transportation. Latin America’s growing e-commerce platforms are also simplifying the booking and management of pet travel, boosting adoption among a wide range of pet owners. According to a report by PCMI, Latin America's e-commerce market is projected to surpass USD 509 Billion in 2023, reflecting a 27% increase from 2022. This growth creates opportunities for Pet Travel Services to expand through cross-border e-commerce and deeper digital market integration. Additionally, governments and private organizations are actively improving regulations for safe pet transit, encouraging growth in this sector. Innovative services, including specialized pet carriers and veterinary care in route, are enhancing the convenience of pet travel.

 Middle East and Africa Pet Travel Services Market Analysis

In the Middle East and Africa, an evolving awareness of animal welfare is driving the pet travel services market. The rising adoption of companion animals among high-income households contributes significantly to service demand. Companies are offering tailored solutions, such as climate-controlled transport and real-time tracking, addressing regional climatic challenges and safety concerns. Partnerships between airlines and pet service providers ensure smoother travel experiences, encouraging uptake. According to a report by the International Air Transport Association, the UAE's air transport market is expected to expand by 170% over the next 20 years, adding 101 Million passenger flights by 2037. This growth presents significant opportunities for pet travel services, driven by increased connectivity and demand for seamless pet-friendly air travel. Additionally, the region's growing expatriate population requires efficient pet relocation services, which fosters industry expansion. Increased pet-related spending by affluent consumers and emerging local businesses providing niche offerings are further propelling growth, making this market segment a promising avenue in the region.

Competitive Landscape:

The pet travel services market is highly competitive, with key players offering a range of services including transportation, accommodation, and customized travel solutions. Major companies focus on ensuring pet safety and comfort, partnering with airlines, hotels, and other travel-related businesses. Some leaders specialize in premium services, such as luxury pet transport or concierge services, while others focus on compliance with international regulations. New entrants leverage technology for tracking, booking, and enhanced customer experiences. Collaboration between pet travel agencies, airlines, and pet-friendly destinations strengthens market dynamics. The growing trend of pet humanization fuels competition, prompting companies to innovate and diversify offerings. For instance, in August 2024, Bond Vet, a network of technologically advanced veterinary clinics, and GlobalVetLink (GVL), a prominent supplier of digital animal health solutions, announced a strategic alliance. Bond Vet will improve and expedite its pet travel services by utilizing GVL's Compliance Assistant platform, guaranteeing a smooth experience for both veterinarians and pet owners.

The report has also analysed the competitive landscape of the market with some of the key players being:

• Aark Air International, Inc.
• Across the Pond Pets Travel
• Air Animal Inc
• AirPets Relocation Services Pvt. Ltd.
• Airvets
• Animal Motel
• Blue Collar Pet Transport
• Global Paws
• Happy Tails Travel, Inc.
• Petport
• PetRelocation, Inc.
• Royal Paws
• World Pet Travel
   

Latest News and Developments:

• October 2024: Harrods Aviation has expanded its pet travel services at London Stansted Airport by partnering with Animal Air Care. This collaboration will allow for the seamless arrival of pets, including dogs, cats, and ferrets, into the UK. The service will mirror procedures at Harrods’ Luton Airport location, ensuring a streamlined, pet-friendly experience. Animal Air Care brings 25 years of expertise to the partnership, providing specialized care for pets traveling to the UK.
• July 2024: GlobalVetLink (GVL) launched the Pet Travel Concierge Service, designed to streamline the international travel process for pets. This innovative service helps veterinary practices manage compliance requirements, making it easier for pet owners and veterinarians to navigate the complexities of traveling abroad with pets. By simplifying the paperwork and logistical challenges, GVL aims to enhance the travel experience for both pets and their owners.
• November 2023: Aipets launched a comprehensive plan to manage overweight pets during transportation, enhancing safety and comfort. This initiative aimed to alleviate the distress of pet owners by ensuring secure travel conditions. The service also allowed pet owners to book travel, reinforcing Aipets' competitive position. The company’s focus on pet well-being is expected to boost customer trust and satisfaction.
• September 2023: Royal Paws introduced a new range of toys designed for cats during domestic and international travel. The toys were crafted to provide comfort and reduce stress for cats during transportation. This innovation encouraged more pet owners to secure bookings for their pets' travel. Royal Paws expects the move to strengthen its market presence by attracting additional customers seeking stress-free travel solutions.
• June 2022: Hilton and Mars Petcare expanded their partnership to enhance pet-friendly accommodations. The collaboration now covers all seven of Hilton's pet-friendly brands. This move addresses the growing demand from travelers bringing cats and dogs. The initiative aims to provide better services and amenities for pets and their owners.

Pet Travel Services Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the pet travel services market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global pet travel services market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the pet travel services industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.