What does the future hold for pet owners seeking their perfect urban home? At the PropertyGuru Asia Real Estate Summit, a lively panel discussion, moderated by Pippa Woodhead, Head of Podcasts at Tigerhall, brought together influential voices in the pet culture movement: Colin Chee, Didi Almeyda, and Jessica Zafra. Together, they addressed the growing need for pet-friendly developments in urban neighborhoods and the impact of pet ownership on property design.
With a significant rise in pet ownership, the demand for accommodating living spaces has surged. Colin Chee, Creator and Creative Director of Never Too Small, highlighted that developments now increasingly cater to pets, marking a 40% jump in pet-centric housing since 2018 in cities like Sydney. The discussion also touched on innovative ideas, such as pet-friendly cinemas and the need for more dog parks, illustrating the shift in how cities are accommodating furry residents.
Jessica Zafra, a Palanca-winning author and animal welfare advocate, pointed out the challenges faced by pet owners in the Philippines, where many developments still restrict pets. She emphasized the importance of changing perceptions about pets in real estate and advocating for policies that protect their rights.
As the panel shared insights from Singapore, Melbourne, Jakarta, and Manila, Didi Almeyda, Indonesia’s Animal Whisperer, noted the doubling of her client base in recent years, underscoring the growing demand for pet-friendly spaces.
The dream for the future? Developments equipped with pet care facilities, safe environments for children and pets, and a commitment to caring for strays. Click here to explore how urban living can embrace our beloved pets!
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