Published on
November 2, 2025
As more people look to take their furry friends on their travels, pet travel is becoming more and more common. Numerous hotels have opened their doors to pets as a result of this trend, which has spurred innovation in the hospitality sector. A notable illustration of this trend is the Swedish hotel chain ESS Group, which has launched a groundbreaking service for dog owners travelling with their pets. Redefining the norms of pet-friendly hospitality, ESS Group is the first hotel chain in Europe to provide on-site veterinary services.
Vet at ESS: A New Standard in Pet Care
Launched in early October, ESS Group’s initiative, known as Vet at ESS, represents a significant milestone in the hospitality industry. This new service, a collaboration with Vet at Home, brings licensed veterinarians directly to the hotel premises, offering a range of medical services for pets. Whether it’s routine care like nail clipping and vaccinations, emergency treatments, or even obtaining a European Union pet passport, pet owners now have access to essential veterinary services during their stay.
The Vet at the ESS programme reflects a growing awareness of the importance of catering to the needs of pets, not just humans. As more people travel with their dogs, ESS Group has made it their mission to ensure that both two-legged and four-legged guests receive the same high level of care and attention. By working with Vet at Home, the hotel group hopes to set a new standard in the hospitality industry, blending guest experience with the health and safety of pets.
Expanding Pet Care Services Across Europe
The Vet at ESS service is currently available at several ESS properties in Sweden, but there are plans to expand the offering to other European countries. This initiative showcases how the hotel industry is evolving to meet the growing demands of travelers who prioritise their pets’ well-being during vacations. ESS Group’s focus on providing convenience and peace of mind to pet owners is expected to inspire other hotels across Europe to implement similar services in the future.
This shift towards pet-friendly services is part of a broader trend that can be seen globally. In regions such as Asia, pet-friendly accommodations are also on the rise. Hotels across cities like Singapore, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur are welcoming pets with open arms, offering various packages and services tailored to the needs of pet owners.
The Rise of Pet-Friendly Accommodations in Asia
As pet owners increasingly seek to travel with their pets, Asia has seen a surge in the number of hotels catering to furry companions. In Singapore, for example, Oasia Resort Sentosa has introduced a “Paw-fect Retreat” package, which allows guests to bring one dog along for a relaxing stay. Other hotels in Singapore, including Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa and Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong, have also embraced the growing demand for pet-friendly holidays.
Similarly, in Bangkok, Thailand, hotels like Anantara Siam Bangkok and Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel have made it easier for pet owners to enjoy their stay without the worry of leaving their pets behind. These hotels are just a few examples of how the hospitality industry is adapting to the changing needs of travelers. By offering amenities such as dog-friendly rooms, outdoor spaces for pets to roam, and dedicated pet services, these hotels are ensuring that pets are not just tolerated but welcomed.
In Malaysia, there is also a growing trend of pet-friendly accommodations. For example, Somerset Kuala Lumpur and Hyatt Place cater to pet owners, although the latter currently only accommodates cats. These establishments are taking steps to ensure that pet owners can enjoy their travel experiences without having to leave their pets behind.
The Future of Pet-Friendly Travel in the Hospitality Industry
The pet-friendly movement in the hospitality industry is more than just a passing trend; it’s a reflection of a larger societal shift towards recognising pets as important members of the family. As the demand for pet-friendly travel options continues to rise, more hotels are likely to follow the lead of ESS Group and other global brands in offering services that meet the unique needs of pet owners.
In addition to veterinary services, many hotels are expanding their offerings to include pet-friendly amenities like pet-friendly restaurants, dog parks, and walking tours designed for pet owners and their furry friends. These services help to create a travel experience that is both enjoyable and stress-free for both pets and their owners.
This shift in hospitality standards not only caters to the growing number of pet owners but also helps boost local economies by attracting travelers who are looking for pet-inclusive vacation options. By making accommodations more inclusive, hotels can tap into a new market segment, ensuring that pets are not just accommodated but are welcomed with the same level of care and attention as their human counterparts.
A Growing Trend in Pet-Centric Travel
A new era of pet-friendly travel is just getting started with the launch of services like Vet at ESS. Pet travel will continue to become a more seamless and pleasurable experience as more hotels in Europe and Asia implement comparable services. The hospitality sector is reacting to the growing demand for services that accommodate pets and their owners, whether it is by providing veterinary care, pet-specific amenities, or just pet-friendly lodging. This advancement in hospitality is a welcome development for pet owners who view their animals as members of the family, as it promises to make travelling with pets more convenient and pleasurable.
