Pet-Friendly Travel in China: A Growing Trend
As China’s National Day holiday approached, travelers like Amelia from Shanghai eagerly booked their stays at pet-friendly hotels in picturesque locations such as Moganshan, located in Deqing County, Zhejiang Province. Amelia checked in with her Samoyed, highlighting a growing trend in pet travel.
Embracing the Pet Economy
The concept of a pet-friendly environment is flourishing beyond just accommodations. For instance, at the Xiazhu Lake Wetland Park, the “Let Your Pets Play” campaign encourages visitors to collect stamps in a thematic passport to claim rewards. Meanwhile, Ledao Island provides dedicated pet-friendly areas, including a grassy lawn and water stations along its scenic trails.
Economic Impact
According to a recent 2026 China pet industry white paper, the urban cat and dog market in China soared to approximately 312.6 billion yuan (about $44 billion) in 2025. This booming sector caters to around 126 million urban pets, underlining the significance of pets in urban lifestyles.
A Shift in Travel Preferences
Research indicates that over 70% of pet owners express a desire to travel with their pets. The demand for pet-friendly accommodations surged, with searches for “pet-friendly” options tripling year-on-year as the holiday approached.
Visual Highlights
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Pets and Owners Leisurely Enjoying Moganshan:
Photo Credit: CGTN -
Pet-Friendly Attractions:
Photo Credit: CGTN
Conclusion
The rising trend of pet-friendly tourism in China not only enhances travel experiences for pet owners but also contributes significantly to the local economy. With more people showing an interest in including their pets in travel plans, areas like Moganshan are likely to see continued growth in pet-centric offerings.
