For today’s pet owners, their dogs, cats and even iguanas aren’t just part of the household — they’re integral to the family. This is especially true among younger consumers, like the 67% of millennials and Gen Zers who plan to have pets instead of kids. While cost was a leading reason for this pivot, consumers still plan to spend big bucks to show love towards their “fur babies.”

The majority of pet owners (76%) view their pet as their child and, as a result, are willing to spend more on pet food and treats (78%), health products like vitamins and supplements (38%) and even hygiene products (38%) this year than in 2022, according to Vericast research. The emotional connection between consumers and their pets also has sparked a surge in the pet grooming and boarding market, which has had a compound annual growth rate of 6% over the past five years, totaling an estimated $14.7 billion in the U.S.

Big-box retailers and large specialty brands aren’t the only ones to benefit from this boom: Yuppy Puppy Grooming and Boarding has created a five-star resort experience to excite pet parents as well as their dogs and cats. Located in the St. Louis suburb of O’Fallon, Mo., Yuppy Puppy services the entire St. Charles County area, offering a diverse menu of grooming and “spaw” services such as lavender and chamomile facials, nail grooming, teeth brushing, and fur trimming and styling.

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