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The Rising Trend of Pet Relocation in Corporate Moves

In recent years, pet relocation has transformed from a niche service to an integral part of corporate relocation programs. Recent data from leading pet relocation services provider Starwood Pet Travel, along with global mobility analyst AIRINC, illustrates this dramatic shift in demand. As employers increasingly grant flexibility and inclusivity in employee benefits, pet relocation has surged in popularity, showcasing an essential aspect of modern global mobility solutions.

A Significant Increase in Corporate Inquiries

From 2019 to 2024, the number of corporate employees requesting pet relocation assistance nearly tripled, soaring from 1,163 inquiries to 4,545. After stabilizing slightly in 2025 with 4,504 inquiries, projections for 2026 indicate that the upward trend is set to continue, making it the most active year yet. On average, there have been over 3,200 inquiries each year, suggesting that the need for pet relocation services has become a priority for many employees.

Employer Policies Shift to Meet Employee Needs

According to AIRINC's Long Term Assignment Survey, the surge in pet relocation requests has prompted employers to revamp their pet policies. In 2022, only 37% of companies covered pet shipments in any capacity; however, this figure jumped to 49% by 2025. This change demonstrates a significant shift in employer attitudes toward the inclusion of pets in relocation benefits. Furthermore, the number of companies lacking any pet shipment benefits dropped from 62% to 51% over the same period.

The data suggest that pet relocation is not merely an optional perk but rather a crucial element of competitive global mobility programs. Adam Melton, VP of Strategic Initiatives at Starwood Pet Travel, explains, "For many employees, pets are viewed as family members. Companies that acknowledge this dynamic are better positioned to engage talent and increase acceptance rates for assignments."

Emergence of Formalized Policies

As more companies recognize the importance of pet relocation, the specifics of these policies are becoming increasingly structured. Among companies offering pet shipment benefits, 43% control this by limiting the number of pets, while 29% impose a cash cap. Only 10% of businesses offering these services do so without restrictions, highlighting the careful consideration companies are putting into crafting their policies. This shift from ad hoc support to formalized policies reflects a new understanding of the importance of pets in travel decisions.

Diverse Relocation Requests

The distribution of corporate pet relocation requests spans a wide range of industries, ensuring that the service caters to employees across sectors. Higher education, technology, oil and energy, professional services, and construction are among the leading sectors requesting these services. Geographically, the majority of requests originate from the United States, followed by substantial volumes from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and South Africa.

Relocation complexities can differ significantly, from a simple domestic flight for a small dog to extensive preparation involving import permits and health certifications for relocation to countries with stringent laws like Australia, Japan, and the UK. Starwood Pet Travel excels in managing these intricate logistics, providing seamless transitions for families and their pets.

Implications for Global Mobility Programs

As competition for talent becomes more intense, global mobility managers and HR leaders must adapt their strategies. Employees offered support for pet relocation are generally more satisfied with their overall relocation experiences. Companies that proactively manage pet logistics can effectively alleviate reservation hesitancies that employees may have about relocations, marking pet relocation as a pivotal factor in attracting mobile talent. Both Starwood Pet Travel and AIRINC are at the forefront of this evolution, guiding companies to design robust pet relocation policies.

By embracing pet relocation as an essential element of relocation benefits, organizations can create more inclusive and appealing programs for employees, ultimately enhancing their overall mobility strategies.

About the Companies

Starwood Pet Travel is committed to ensuring that pets are transported safely and professionally, handling all necessary paperwork and logistics from start to finish. Their expertise lies in managing the complexities of international pet movement, allowing families and corporations to focus on the bigger picture of relocation.

AIRINC provides invaluable insights and guidance for businesses looking to enhance their mobility strategies, ensuring their pet relocation policies meet current workforce needs effectively. Together, these companies represent the future of a holistic corporate relocation experience that prioritizes the well-being of all family members, pets included.