Australian pet owners are paying high prices for pet care, with research showing that overnight stays for furry friends can cost as much as high-end hotels.
Research by TrustedHousesitters highlights the stark differences in pet care costs across the country. Sydney tops the list for expensive dog kennel stays, costing over $60 per night, while Perth cat owners face the highest boarding fees in Australia at nearly $70 per night.
Melbourne has the highest rates for in-home pet sitting, with an average cost of $74 per night. Dog owners on the Gold Coast are paying the steepest price for overnight dog sitting, with rates soaring to $111 per night.
Angela Laws, Head of Community at TrustedHousesitters, said the findings reflect what they’ve long understood: pet parents face significant financial decisions when it comes to ensuring their beloved pets receive the best care possible.
“We see more and more owners who want their pets to stay in their familiar home environment while they’re away, rather than traditional options like boarding facilities, as staying at home is proven by vets to reduce stress and anxiety. However, the dramatic variations in costs across different cities show just how challenging it can be for owners to find affordable solutions.”
The study also revealed the average costs for various pet care services across Australia. Pet sitting and dog sitting average $84.21 per night, while cat sitting costs $58.88 per night. Boarding options such as catteries and kennels are slightly more affordable, with average prices at $37.90 and $49.46 per night, respectively.
“While we know our pet parents would move mountains for their furry family members, we also understand that quality care shouldn’t have to break the bank. That’s why our global community of pet lovers helping each other has become such a valuable alternative for owners looking to maintain high standards of care while managing costs,” said Laws.
Pet Care Costs Across Australian Cities (Per Night)
| Service | Sydney | Melbourne | Brisbane | Perth | Gold Coast |
| Pet Sitting | $34.46 | $74.22 | $53.03 | $53.08 | $42.44 |
| Dog Sitting | $60.97 | $68.94 | $79.54 | $53.08 | $111.45 |
| Dog Kennels | $61.01 | $55.67 | $39.78 | $33.44 | $32.37 |
| Cat Sitting | $34.46 | $63.61 | $42.42 | $45.11 | $42.44 |
| Catteries | $47.48 | $37.13 | $37.13 | $68.48 | $32.09 |
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