Kiwis are rolling out the red carpet, or at least the chew toys, as pet birthdays become the hottest celebration in town.
From pup-friendly cakes to full-blown parties, a survey by pet insurance specialist PD Insurance shows how four-legged family members are getting the VIP treatment on their special day.
COO of PD Insurance, Michelle Le Long said a growing number of Kiwi pet parents are throwing a birthday bash.
“Some are going all out, and that’s no surprise when you consider how much our pets mean to us,” she said.
PD Insurance’s April 2024 survey results confirm pet birthday parties are on the rise.
When asked if a pet’s special day warrants a celebration, a whopping 71.3% answered in the affirmative.
They often mark the occasion with parties that include both human and pet guests.
These can be generous affairs, too, with 40% of those throwing a bash whipping up pet-safe cakes and treats, 53% splashing out on gifts, and 49% showering the furbabies with extra love.
One owner even confessed, “My dog gets a McDonald’s cheeseburger on their birthday,” while another shared, “We hit a pet-friendly dinner spot for a treat or small ice cream.”
Party planners unleash the fun
Pet birthdays aren’t just backyard BBQs any longer. Internationally, bakers and event planners are cashing in, offering everything from $100 pup picnics to $5,000 extravaganzas with pro photographers.
Custom invites, agility courses, and playlists of bark-worthy tunes—services once reserved for human kids—are now tailored to fur-kids too.
“New Zealand is catching up to global trends,” said Le Long.
“In the US, pet parties are a multi-million-dollar industry. Here, we’re starting to see bakers mastering peanut butter pupcakes and planners decking out venues with paw-some flair.”
For example Auckland’s ‘Pawty Planners,’ who reported a 30% jump in bookings since 2023.
“It’s not just a birthday, it’s an experience, Kiwis love a good celebration, and furbabies are the perfect reason.”
Millennials and Gen Z lead the pack
Perhaps unsurprisingly, it’s the younger generations driving the trend of treating pets like family—or even fur-kids.
PD Insurance’s Generation Pet Survey found 67% of Kiwi pet owners see their pets as babies, with Millennials and Gen Z topping the list at 74%.
Delaying parenthood or home ownership, many younger Kiwis have the flexibility and disposable income to go all out.
“A $500 doggy bash feels more like a milestone than a splurge.”
Younger generations are rewriting the rules of pet parenting, one birthday bone at a time.”
Status, swag, and social bonds
Hosting a dozen dogs with swag bags and a three-tier cake is more than a treat – it’s a dazzling display of love that shows you’re pouring your heart into making your pup’s day outstanding.
“It’s a fun way to celebrate,” Le Long said.
“You’re recognising your pet as an important part of your life and making the day memorable for them – and you”.
What’s Next: Barkchella and Beyond?
With pet influencers like Doug the Pug setting global standards, NZ’s pet parties could get wilder.
Michelle Le Long said there was potential for ‘Barkchella’ festivals or ‘Pawshion Week’ runway struts
“Perhaps we’re not far off a pet party reality show,” Le Long said.
“Kiwis love a good spectacle as much as anyone. Add pets, and it’s gold.”
Humanisation: Finding a healthy balance
Michele Le Long said pets are cherished companions, often cuddling up close, popping up on social media, and curious about our celebrations.
“We connect deeply with them because they’re part of our lives,” she said.
“But while it’s important to celebrate and nurture the bond, its equally vital to respect their unique needs as animals.
“Humanising our pets can sometimes lead to unintended consequences.”
It was about keeping it safe and fun, but with safety in mind.
“Have fun with your pet parties but keep things sensible. Skip the chocolate or just keep it for yourself. For the pets, opt for vet-approved goodies,” she advised.
“A happy, healthy pet’s is always the real gift.”
