'Cat'ering to felines, canines no mere pet project

Zhao Shan had always felt a pang of guilt every time she dropped off her beloved dog, Max, at a pet care center before embarking on her holiday travels. Max's sad eyes and whimpering goodbye always tugged at her heartstrings, but she had no better option.

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Zhao is among the rapidly growing ranks of pet owners who now take their furry family members on vacation with them a trend made possible by the rise in animal-friendly accommodations along with transport operators and eateries that meet these needs.

A survey conducted by the Shanghai-based Asia Pet Alliance in early November showed that among services pet owners are most keen to patronize, pet-friendly hotels, travel with-pet services and pet-friendly restaurants rank high on the list.