In Bengaluru, a significant shift is underway in how pet owners care for their animal companions when they travel. No longer satisfied with basic kennels, there is a surging demand for high-end, personalised pet boarding services that treat dogs and cats as cherished family members.
The Rise of Premium Pet Parenting
The trend is driven by a new generation of pet parents, particularly young professionals and families, who view their pets as integral members of the household. Industry insiders report a remarkable 40% increase in demand for customised boarding facilities over the past few years. This isn't just about feeding and shelter; it's about ensuring a pet's emotional well-being and routine is maintained.
"Earlier, the primary concern was just a safe place with food and water," explains Priya Chetty Rajagopal, a pet parent in the city. "Now, we look for a 'home away from home' experience." This sentiment is echoed by service providers like PetSitters, which has seen its premium clientele grow substantially.
What Does Customised Care Include?
The definition of premium boarding has evolved to encompass a wide range of services tailored to individual pet needs. Standard offerings now often include:
- Live Video Updates: Owners can check in on their pets via live camera feeds throughout the day.
- Specialised Dietary Plans: Meals are prepared according to specific health requirements or preferences, not just generic kibble.
- One-on-One Playtime: Dedicated sessions with caretakers to ensure pets receive individual attention and exercise.
- Grooming and Spa Services: Baths, brushing, and even paw massages are part of the package.
- Medical Supervision: Many facilities have tie-ups with veterinarians or have staff trained to administer medication.
Facilities like the recently opened Club Mahindra PetZenith in Bengaluru are setting new standards, offering luxury suites, splash pools, and curated activity schedules. The cost reflects this shift, with daily rates ranging from ₹1,500 to over ₹4,000, a far cry from traditional kennel fees.
Challenges and Considerations for Pet Parents
With the proliferation of options, choosing the right facility requires diligence. Experts and experienced pet owners advise a thorough vetting process. A mandatory pre-board visit is crucial to assess cleanliness, staff interaction with animals, security, and overall ambiance.
Key questions to ask include the staff-to-pet ratio, emergency protocols, and the daily routine. "Transparency is non-negotiable," states a representative from a leading service. Reputable centres encourage meet-and-greets to ensure the pet is comfortable and to understand its unique personality and habits.
The market is also seeing a rise in niche services like cattery-exclusive boarding and homes that board only one client's pets at a time to minimise stress. This hyper-customisation underscores the city's deepening bond with its pets and the commercialisation of pet care as a serious, sentiment-driven industry.
As Bengaluru's pet parents continue to prioritise their furry friends' comfort, the pet boarding sector is poised for further innovation and growth, moving firmly from a utility service to a premium lifestyle choice.
