Dogster: Market Size and Trends Update for 2024

Pet sitting has become an essential service for pet owners who need to leave their homes for various reasons, such as work or travel. A pet-sitting service involves a company or individual visiting a person’s home to care for their pets, ensuring they receive the necessary attention and care while their owners are away. While pet sitting is commonly associated with dogs, services are available for a wide range of pets, including cats, birds, fish, and even exotic animals.

In the United States alone, there are approximately 77 million dogs, 58 million cats, and 8 million birds, highlighting the significant market potential for pet-sitting services. Americans are known for their love and dedication to their pets, as evidenced by the fact that they spent over $120 billion on their furry companions in 2021. This includes expenses on pet food, toys, vet bills, pet insurance, and pet-sitting services.

The global pet-sitting industry was valued at $2.4 billion in 2022, with North America accounting for more than a third of the market share. The industry is projected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting it could reach close to $6.4 billion by 2032. In the U.S. alone, there are approximately 35,000 pet sitters, the majority of whom work independently and offer their services on a self-employed basis.

The Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the pet-sitting industry, leading to a decline in demand as people stayed home and spent more time with their pets. However, as restrictions have eased and people have returned to work, the demand for pet-sitting services has rebounded. Experts predict that the industry will continue to grow at a rate of 11% per annum, driven by the increasing number of pet owners and the need for reliable care for their pets.

Dog-sitting accounts for the majority of the pet-sitting market, with 83% of all pet-sitting jobs involving caring for dogs. More than three-quarters of pet sitters are women, with the average age of a pet sitter being just over 30. The average cost of pet sitting is around $25 for a 30-minute visit and $80 for overnight sitting, depending on the location and specific services required.

In terms of revenue and earnings, 99% of pet-sitting businesses are independently owned, with the average gross revenue for a pet sitter being approximately $70,000 per annum. While working for a pet-sitting business may yield an average salary of $25,000 per annum, pet sitters in Connecticut earn more than those in other parts of the country.

Overall, pet sitting is a lucrative and rewarding profession that provides essential care for pets when their owners are unable to do so. With the increasing demand for pet-sitting services and the potential for growth in the industry, pet sitters play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and happiness of pets across the country.