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Why Gen Z and Millennial Pet Parents Are Rejecting Traditional Dog Walking Services

June 9, 2026  ·  2 min read  ·  Amy Schwab
Why Gen Z and Millennial Pet Parents Are Rejecting Traditional Dog Walking Services

I used to think dog walking was just about exercise.

Then I met Luna's owner, Sarah.

Sarah works in tech, just like I used to. She interviewed 8 different dog walkers before choosing us. Not because she's picky, but because Luna has separation anxiety and needs someone who actually understands canine behavior.

The first question Sarah asked wasn't about our rates. It was: "Will the same person walk Luna every time?"

This is the shift happening right now in pet care.

Gen Z and Millennial pet parents aren't looking for a transactional service. They're looking for a relationship built on trust, consistency, and genuine expertise.

They want to know:

Are you trustworthy?

Will you notice if something seems off with my dog's behavior?

Do you actually love animals, or is this just a side hustle and an avenue for making extra cash?

These aren't unreasonable questions. These are the questions we should all be asking.

At Betches Walking Betches, every team member is Small Animal CPR & First Aid Certified. We're insured, background checked, and chosen based on experience and volunteer work with animals.

But more than credentials, we notice the little things. When a dog's energy changes. When they're limping slightly. When they need a gentler approach that day.

Because your dog isn't just another appointment on our calendar.

Sarah texts me photos of Luna now. Happy, tired, thriving. That's what this work is really about.

The pet care industry is changing because pet parents are demanding better. And honestly? It's about time.