The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a pet ownership boom, with an estimated 3.2 million pets being adopted during lockdowns. Now, five years later, new research reveals that the pet services industry remains at a high level, with small businesses driving upwards of 40% growth in services like dog walking and grooming. According to data from Simply Business, one of the UK’s largest small business insurance providers, pet sitters saw the largest surge, with a 49% increase in businesses from 2020 to 2024.
As millions of pet owners now look to balance their return to the office with the needs of their pets, demand for pet services has skyrocketed. The latest data from Simply Business reveals the services with the highest demand.
Fastest-growing pet services from 2020-2024:
- Pet Sitters & Minding Services – increased by 49%
- Dog Walkers – increased by 43%
- Pet Groomers – increased by 28%
The data also revealed the North East as the land of opportunity for pet lovers, with the region showing the biggest increases in dog walking and pet beautician services. Meanwhile, the Midlands emerged as the region with the highest rise in pet minders.
Julie Fisher, UK CEO of insurance provider Simply Business, commented: “Despite challenging trading conditions for small businesses across the UK, the growth in the pet sector is pawsitively encouraging! As many pet owners adjust to new hybrid work schedules, these services have become essential. Offering convenience, peace of mind, and unbeatable customer service, the growth in this sector is testament to the resilience and ingenuity of SMEs, who have continually adapted and innovated to meet the increased demand and changing needs of pet owners.”
Yvonne Michel, The Female Dog Whisperer, said: “My favourite thing about running my business is the independence I have in making my own decisions. I am the accountant, the salesperson, the receptionist, and the boss all in one, but the pandemic was tough for my business.
Once I was able to meet clients face-to-face again, I was overrun with customers needing my help. People adopted pets during lockdown and created little monsters – and I was there to help them turn things around.”
Kim Constable, The Only Way is Grooming, explained:“After being made redundant, I took control of my future by becoming my own boss. The pandemic gave me the space to build my business, and as demand has grown, I have kept myself up to date with courses, first aid, and growing trends. Flexibility is key, especially as more clients work from home, making it easier for them to book appointments. I’ve now even started to offer grooming for cats — a service that’s in high demand in my area.”
