Pets get a bite on the share economy

Pet owners now have another option when they go on holidays , writes

GO ON, LASSIE: Find yourself a walker on the new pet app!

AUSSIES’ furry friends have joined the share economy, with the launch of PetCloud, an app that matches pet owners with carers in their local area.

The platform aims to give owners the peace of mind of knowing their animal is being looked after in the private home of a dedicated pet lover while they are on holiday, but the potential financial benefits will also be significant.

The Australian

Companions Animal Report found that Australians spend $474 million each year on boarding their cats and dogs, with kennel stays averaging $38 a day during peak holiday season.

Meanwhile, dog walking can cost around $25 an hour and can involve large groups of dogs being walked at once.

PetCloud prices will average $25 a night for pet sitting and $20 per hour for dog walking.

The service has existed in website form since 2015, but the expansion into app form is designed to enable greater booking ease in busy holiday seasons, said founder and chief executive Deb Morrison.

“The app will bring convenience to pet owners who lead an active lifestyle by matching their pet with a home and carer who is suitable to their needs,” Ms Morrison said.

Pet minders set their own prices and deal directly with owners, who can browse profiles through the app and post jobs online. All jobs are booked and paid for online and covered by insurance, while a percentage of money earned from each booking is donated to the RSPCA.

So far the website has given more than $25,000 back to the RSPCA, which Ms Morrison said is “raising awareness about the standards of pets in care”.