Singapore has witnessed a steady rise in pet ownership over the years. According to a survey on pet ownership conducted by Rakuten Insight in early 2022, 33 percent of respondents in Singapore stated that they owned at least one pet. With the dog and cat populations growing at Compound Annual Growth Rates (CAGRs) of 1.9% and 7.3% respectively from 2016 to 2020, this trend is set to continue, driven by the increasing shift toward viewing pets as integral family members.
By 2025, the pet population is projected to reach 1.3 million cats and 465,000 dogs, a surge largely driven by cats being a more space-efficient choice for urban living. This increase in pet ownership is not just a lifestyle trend or an expansion of a family—it will also have significant implications for the human resources (HR) industry in Singapore. Employers are beginning to recognise that employees see their pets as family, leading to the rise of pet-friendly HR policies, particularly pet care leave.
Pet Care Leave: A Rising Employee Benefit
The deepening emotional connection between employees and their pets has prompted companies to reassess conventional leave policies, leading to the emergence of pet care leave, commonly referred to as pawternity leave. This innovative employee benefit is increasingly being embraced by forward-thinking organisations in Singapore, acknowledging that pets are an integral part of many employees’ lives.
For pet owners, the responsibilities extend beyond providing food and shelter; they involve ensuring the well-being of their furry companions, particularly during critical life events. Recognising this, some companies have introduced dedicated leave days for employees to manage significant pet-related matters—whether it’s attending veterinary appointments, helping a new pet adjust to their home, or even taking time to grieve the loss of a beloved companion.
Although still in its early stages, pet care leave is gradually gaining acceptance, with around 20 companies in Singapore already integrating it into their employee benefits framework. This shift aligns with a broader commitment to employee well-being, supporting work-life integration, and acknowledging the diverse personal commitments that contribute to a balanced and fulfilling life. As more organisations adopt these pet-inclusive policies, they are positioning themselves as progressive employers that understand the evolving needs of the modern workforce.
The Pet Industry’s Economic Boom
The pet industry in Singapore has experienced a significant economic upturn, further reinforcing the importance of HR policies catering to pet owners. By the end of 2023, the overall sales value of dog and cat food products surpassed S$200 million, a sharp increase from S$98.7 million in 2018. Similarly, the sales value of pet products exceeded S$30 million in 2023.
As more individuals prioritise their pets’ well-being, they seek employers who understand and accommodate their needs. Forward-thinking companies that acknowledge and actively support this shift by integrating pet-friendly HR policies, such as flexible work arrangements and pet care leave, will distinguish themselves as progressive and people-centric employers. By fostering an inclusive workplace culture that reflects the evolving priorities of their workforce, these companies will not only enhance employee satisfaction but also strengthen their talent retention and attraction strategies in an increasingly competitive job market.
The Rise of Pet-Sitting Jobs
Beyond HR policies, the surge in pet ownership has also catalysed a growing demand for pet-related services, with pet-sitting emerging as one of the most sought-after occupations. Many pet owners, especially working professionals, require reliable and trustworthy individuals to care for their pets while they travel or fulfil work commitments.
According to Indeed’s 2024 Rising Jobs list, interest in pet-sitting jobs has surged by 260%, making it one of the fastest-growing job searches in Singapore. This boom reflects an increasing recognition of pet care as an essential service rather than a luxury. As pet owners become more discerning, they seek pet sitters who are not only responsible but also knowledgeable about pet behaviour, nutrition, and emergency care.
For many, pet-sitting offers flexibility, autonomy, and fulfilment, aligning with a broader trend where employees seek work that provides a sense of control and balance. With Singapore’s workforce increasingly prioritising work-life integration, pet care jobs provide an alternative career path that is both rewarding and aligned with the pet-loving culture.
The Future of Pet-Inclusive HR Policies
The rise in pet ownership, coupled with the booming pet industry and shifting workforce dynamics, underscores the need for businesses to evolve their HR strategies. Companies that adopt pet-friendly benefits, including pet care leave, pet insurance, and flexible work arrangements for pet parents, will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent.
About the author
Daniel Choy is the CEO of Perromart and Petico, leading both companies in providing premium pet products across Southeast Asia. With a background in engineering and entrepreneurship, he has played a key role in growing the pet care industry. His leadership has helped shape Perromart into a trusted pet retailer focused on innovation and quality.
