How to Build a Pet Care App That Pet Owners Will Love

Pet care app development can be promising, especially considering the market isn’t flooded, leaving ample room for new ideas and growth.

 

However, like any ambitious project, it comes with challenges like budgeting and technical complexities.

 

Lucky for you, the Onix team specializes in pet care mobile app development and is here to share valuable insights to help you succeed.

 

Whether you:

 

• run a pet-related business looking to offer digital services
• are a startup aiming to bring a fresh, innovative approach to the pet care industry

 

we’ve got you covered!

 

The Onix team recently developed a startup focused on pet-friendly travel, and we’ve gained some valuable insights that we’d love to share with you.

 

In this article, we look at:

 

• the different types of pet care apps you can create
• the must-have features to include
• the step-by-step process of building a pet care
• сonsiderations for pet care app development cost
• insights and tips to help navigate the complexities of pet care app development

 

Stay tuned!

Pet-focused travel platform built by Onix

Key highlights

Did you know that:

 

• The global pet care market will grow to $427.75 billion by 2032.

 

• According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), around 70% of U.S. households own a pet, and the number of pet owners continues to rise globally. This increasing pet ownership drives demand for convenient pet care solutions.

 

• 56% of pet owners in the US use tech solutions for their pets, indicating a strong appetite for tech-driven pet care solutions.

 

• Building a pet care app boosts customer engagement, streamlines services, and broadens your reach. It also fosters brand loyalty, attracts new users, and drives revenue with innovative features.

 

• Building a pet care mobile app can be resource-intensive. To stay organized and ensure timely progress, break the project into phases and estimate the time required for each. This method helps keep everything running smoothly.

 

Types of Pet Care Apps and Their Key Features to Include

When creating a pet care app, it’s essential to choose the type that best fits the needs of your target audience. Each type of pet care app serves a different purpose and requires specific features to be truly effective.

 

Below, we share some pet care app types and the key features they should have:

 

Pet health tracker app

These apps help pet owners track and manage their pets' health, including medical records, vaccination schedules, and wellness check-ups.

 

Key features:

 

• Health records management
• Appointment reminders
• Symptom checker
• Medication tracker
• Emergency contact list

 

Pet travel apps

These apps assist pet owners in planning trips with their pets, including finding pet-friendly accommodations and activities.

 

Key features:

 

• Pet-friendly listings
• Travel itineraries
• Travel tips
• Local services
• User reviews

Pet training apps

These apps provide training resources and guidance to help pet owners train their pets effectively.

 

Key features:

 

• Training modules
• Progress tracking
• Behavioral tips
• Training schedules
• Community forum

 

Pet wellness and fitness apps

These apps focus on maintaining pets' physical health and fitness through exercise and nutrition plans.

 

Key features:

 

• Pet activity tracking
• Fitness goals
• Dietary recommendations
• Health metrics
• Exercise programs

 

Pet food delivery apps

These apps allow pet owners to order and receive pet food and other related products right at their doorstep.

 

Key features:

 

• Product catalog
• Personalized recommendations
• Order tracking
• Discounts and promotions
• Customer reviews
• Payment options

 

Pet adoption and rescue apps

These apps assist in finding pets for adoption and support rescue organizations in connecting with potential adopters.

 

Key features:

 

• Pet profiles
• Pet listings
• Search filters
• Adoption application
• Rescue organization profiles
• Integration with social media

 

Pet care service apps

These apps connect pet owners with local pet care services such as grooming, boarding, and pet sitting.

 

Key features:

 

• Service listings
• Booking and scheduling
• Service provider profiles
• Payment integration
• Customer support

 

Vet finder apps

These apps make it easier to find trusted veterinary care for pets, whether for routine check-ups, emergencies, or specialized treatments.

 

Key features:

 

• Clinic directory
• Search filters
• Map integration
• Appointment scheduling
• Ratings and reviews
• Vet profiles
• Pet health records integration

 

Pet nutrition apps

These apps guide pet owners on proper nutrition, dietary needs, and meal planning for their pets.

 

Key features:

 

• Dietary recommendations
• Meal planning
• Nutritional information
• Food tracker
• Recipe sharing

 

Pet behavior tracking apps

These apps help pet owners monitor and address their pets’ behavioral issues and track changes over time.

 

Key features:

 

• Pet actions
• Training resources
• Progress reports
• Expert advice
• Behavioral alerts

 

Pet grooming apps

These apps assist pet owners in finding grooming services, scheduling appointments, and managing their pets' grooming needs.

 

Key features:

 

• Grooming service directory
• Service reviews
• Grooming schedules
• Before and after photos
• Groomer profiles

 

We’ve just scratched the surface of the many types of pet care apps out there, and the list could go on and on.

 

As you can see, a wide range of app options are available. The key is understanding your target audience and tailoring your app with the right features to meet their needs.

How to Build a Pet Care App: Onix’s Development Process

We'll walk you through our custom pet care app development process step by step, giving you a clear picture of how everything works.

 

Idea conceptualization and market research

 

• Identify the problem. Start by identifying pet owners' pain points and understanding the specific needs your app will address.

 

• Market research. Conduct thorough research to understand your target audience, analyze competitors, and identify market trends.

 

• Define app features. Based on our research, we list out the core features your app will offer, such as pet health tracking, appointment scheduling, or location-based services.

Planning and strategy

 

• Define scope. Clearly define the scope of the project, including pet care app features, platforms (iOS, Android, or both), and third-party integrations.

 

• Create a development plan. Outline the development timeline, milestones, and deliverables. Assign roles and responsibilities within our development team.

 

• Monetization strategy. Decide how you will monetize the app (e.g., in-app purchases, subscriptions, partnerships).

 

UI/UX design

 

• Wireframing. Create wireframes to outline the structure and flow of the app, focusing on user experience.

 

• Design prototyping. Develop high-fidelity prototypes that visualize the app’s user interface, including color schemes, typography, and branding elements.

 

Read also: How to Move From Idea to Prototype [A Step-By-Step Guide]

 

• User testing. Conduct usability testing with real users to gather feedback on the design and make necessary adjustments.

 

Backend development

 

• Choose a technology stack. For your backend, select the appropriate technology stack, such as Node.js, Python, or others.

 

Read also: The Best Tech Stack for Mobile App Development in 2025

 

• Database design. Design a robust database to store user data, pet profiles, medical records, and other necessary information.

 

• API development. Develop APIs for communication between the app’s frontend and backend and for any third-party integrations (e.g., GPS tracking, vet services).

 

• Implement security measures. Ensure that all user data is securely handled by implementing encryption, secure authentication, and compliance with data protection regulations.

 

Frontend development

 

• Select frameworks and tools. Choose the appropriate frontend technologies, such as React Native, Flutter, or native iOS/Android development, depending on your target platforms.

 

• Develop UI components. Build the app’s UI components based on the design prototypes, ensuring responsiveness and consistency across different devices.

 

• Implement core features. Integrate the core features, such as pet profile management, health tracking, reminders, and notifications, ensuring a smooth user experience.

 

Integration with wearables and third-party services

 

• Wearable device integration. If applicable, integrate with pet wearables (e.g., activity trackers, GPS collars) to allow real-time data syncing.

 

• Location-based services. Implement location-based features using APIs like Google Maps, such as vet and groomer finders or lost pet alerts.

 

• Payment gateway integration. If your app includes in-app purchases or subscriptions, we integrate a secure payment gateway like Stripe or PayPal.

 

Testing and quality assurance

 

• Automated and manual testing. Conduct rigorous testing to identify and fix bugs, ensuring the app is stable and performs well across all devices and platforms.

 

• User acceptance testing. Perform UAT with a group of end-users to ensure the app meets their expectations and is user-friendly.

 

• Security testing. Conduct security testing to protect all sensitive user data against potential threats.

 

Deployment

 

• App store submission. Prepare the app for submission to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, ensuring it meets all guidelines.

 

• Set up analytics and monitoring. Integrate analytics tools like Google Analytics or Firebase to track user behavior and app performance post-launch.

 

Post-launch support and maintenance

 

• Monitor performance. Continuously monitor the app’s performance using analytics and user feedback to identify areas for improvement.

 

• Release updates. Regularly release updates to fix bugs, improve features, and add new functionality based on user feedback.

 

• Customer support. Provide ongoing customer support to assist users with any issues or questions.

 

Scaling and enhancements

 

• Gather feedback. Actively gather user feedback to understand their needs and preferences, which will guide future updates and enhancements.

 

• Add new features. As the app gains traction, consider adding new features, such as integrating more wearable devices, AI-driven pet care suggestions, or a community forum for pet owners.

 

• Optimize for performance. Continuously optimize the app for better performance, scalability, and user satisfaction.

 

Creating a pet care app might seem complex, but at Onix, we're with you every step of the way. Our development process is designed to be transparent, collaborative, and supportive, ensuring that your vision comes to life smoothly.

Onix’s Insider Tips on Developing a Pet Care App

We asked our experts to share valuable development tips and insights from their hands-on experience. Here’s what they had to say:

 

Start with the essentials

Begin with the basics by focusing on the core features that make your animal care app functional.

 

Launching a minimum viable product (MVP) lets you:

 

• test the waters
• gather user feedback
• and make necessary tweaks without investing too much upfront.

 

 

Once your MVP gains traction, you can gradually introduce more advanced features like GPS tracking, wearable integration, or AI-driven suggestions based on what your users really want.

 

Prioritize user-centered design

 

Simplify navigation

 

• Intuitive design. Keep pet care app design simple and avoid overwhelming menus.
• Familiar patterns. Use common design patterns for ease of use.

 

Focus on personalization

 

• Custom profiles. Allow detailed pet profiles for personalized experiences.
• Tailored content. Offer recommendations based on each pet’s profile.

 

Streamline key tasks

 

• Optimize actions. Make everyday tasks like scheduling appointments quick and easy.
• Smart defaults. Use pre-filled forms to reduce user effort.

 

Create a consistent visual identity

 

• Consistency. Maintain a cohesive color palette and typography.
• Delightful design. Add small, engaging touches that enhance the experience.

The Onix team created an exhaustive design style guide for a pet travel app

 

Design for accessibility

• Inclusive design. Ensure accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities.

 

Read also: Mobile App UI Design: Guide for Designing User Interface in 2024

 

Implement advanced features

Integrating advanced technologies like AI, machine learning, and VR can improve pet care, its functionality, and user experience.

 

Here are some ways our experts can help you effectively integrate these features:

 

Artificial intelligence

 

• Recommendations. Use AI to offer personalized pet care products and service suggestions.
• Chatbots. Implement AI chatbots for 24/7 support and FAQs.

 

Machine learning

 

• Predictive analytics. Use ML to forecast pet health trends and manage health proactively.
• Behavior analysis. Analyze pet behavior patterns to detect issues early.

 

Virtual reality

 

• Training. Create VR experiences for interactive pet training.
• Pet interaction. Enable virtual playtime and training sessions.

 

Augmented reality

 

• Identification. Use AR to identify pet breeds or health conditions via image scans.
• Visualization. Allow users to see pet care products in their space before buying.

 

Internet of things

 

• Wearables. Track pet health metrics with IoT-enabled wearables.
• Smart home. Integrate with smart home devices for automated pet care tasks.

 

Voice recognition

 

• Commands. Enable voice commands for easy app interaction.
• Alerts. Use voice alerts for reminders about pet care.

 

Plan for scalability

Ensuring your pet care app can scale effectively as it grows is crucial for long-term success.

 

Here are key tips to plan for scalability:

 

Design a scalable architecture

 

• Modular design. Use a modular approach so components can be updated independently.
• Microservices. Implement microservices to scale specific functions easily.

 

Optimize for performance

 

• Efficient code. Write clean code to ensure smooth operation as the app grows.
• Load balancing. Distribute traffic evenly across servers to prevent bottlenecks.

 

Leverage cloud infrastructure

 

• Cloud services. Use cloud platforms like AWS or Google Cloud for flexible resource scaling.
• Auto-scaling. Enable auto-scaling to adjust resources automatically during traffic spikes.

 

Plan for data growth

 

• Scalable databases. Choose databases that scale horizontally, like NoSQL.
• Data partitioning. Partition data to manage growth and maintain performance.

 

Foster a community

Building a strong community within your pet care app can significantly enhance user engagement and loyalty.

 

Incorporate social features

 

• User profiles. Let users create and customize profiles for themselves and their pets.
• Activity feeds. Include feeds for users to share updates, photos, and stories.

 

Encourage interaction

 

• Discussion forums. Add forums or chat groups for discussions and advice.
• Social sharing. Allow users to share content on social media.

 

Host events and challenges

 

• Virtual events: Organize webinars and workshops to engage users.
• Challenges. Create fun contests and goals for pets to boost participation.

 

Implement reward systems

 

• Loyalty programs. Offer points for participation and sharing, redeemable for rewards.
• Badges. Provide badges for milestones and contributions.

 

Cost to Build a Pet Care App

The cost of making a pet care app varies depending on several factors, including

 

• the complexity of the app
• the number of features,
• the platforms (iOS, Android, or both),
• and the development team's location and expertise.

 

1. Basic features. An app with essential features like pet profiles, reminders, and basic health tracking will generally be less expensive.

 

2. Advanced features. Adding advanced functionalities like GPS tracking, wearable integration, in-app purchases, and AI-driven suggestions can significantly increase costs.

 

3. Design and user experience. Custom design elements and a focus on user experience can also impact the overall cost, especially if you require a unique, branded interface.

 

4. Backend and infrastructure. The complexity of the backend, including database management, cloud integration, and security features, will also influence the cost.

 

5. Maintenance and updates. The overall budget should consider post-launch maintenance, updates, and support, as ongoing costs are necessary to keep the app running smoothly.

 

To help you understand the specific costs involved, below our experts provide a breakdown of a pet care app development:

Total Estimated Cost: $80,000 - $140,000+

 

Note: This table provides a rough estimate, but actual costs can vary based on your needs. Once you've reviewed the estimated price, contact us for a detailed proposal. We'll work with you to determine the best strategy and provide an accurate quote to create a pet care app.

 

Onix’s Experience in Building a Pet Care App

At Onix, we recently teamed up with a startup to create a travel platform designed especially for pet owners and their furry friends. This platform aims to provide pets and owners with a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

 

Here's how we brought that vision to life:

 

• Developing the MVP. We built a user-friendly platform that caters to pet owners and their pets' unique needs during travel.

 

• Creating a distinctive brand identity. We focused on adventure and companionship, crafting a brand that resonates with pet lovers.

 

• Designing a style guide. We established a consistent and visually appealing design style that enhances the user experience.

 

• Building a strong technological foundation. Our team ensured responsive and user-friendly front-end development, making the platform easy to use across devices.

 

Standout features of the platform we build:

 

• Extensive pet-friendly accommodations. The platform offers a comprehensive catalog of pet-friendly stays, from hotels to resorts and rentals worldwide.

Pet-friendly accommodations developed by Onix

 

• Interactive map feature. The dynamic map enhances the user experience with an intuitive, interactive interface for easy navigation.

Interactive map feature built by Onix

 

• Curated pet-friendly restaurants. We included a carefully selected list of restaurants where pets are tolerated and genuinely welcomed, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere.

 

Want to learn more?

Be sure to check out our detailed case study for a deeper look into this project and to explore additional development insights.

 

Wrapping Up

In this article, we’ve shared insights on creating an on-demand mobile app solution for pet care, including helpful development tips and cost considerations.

 

With this knowledge, you can develop your app, avoiding common pitfalls that drain time and resources.

 

But remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Our team at Onix is here to guide you every step of the way with our extensive experience and proven methods.

 

Whether you're planning to build a dog care app, a pet boarding app, apps for pet sitters or something else, contact Onix.

 

We’re here to help!

FAQ

 

What are the challenges involved in developing a pet care app?

Building a pet care app comes with its share of challenges, such as distinguishing your app in a market, ensuring strong data privacy and security, and seamlessly integrating various features. Balancing extensive functionality with a user-friendly design and navigating pet health regulations and data protection regulations can be complex.

 

However, these hurdles can be effectively managed with the guidance of experts. If you need any help, please contact us.

 

How long does it take to build a pet care app?

The development of a pet care app generally takes 3 to 6 months, depending on its complexity and the required features. This timeline includes planning, design, development, testing, and deployment stages. More complex apps with advanced functionalities or integrations may extend the development period.

 

How can I monetize my pet care app?

You can monetize your pet care app through various methods, such as offering premium features or subscriptions, integrating in-app purchases for additional services or products, and displaying targeted ads.

 

Consider partnerships with pet-related businesses for affiliate marketing or sponsorships and providing a marketplace for pet products and services.

 

How much does it cost to create a pet care app?

The cost to develop a pet care app can range from $30,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on factors like the app's complexity, the number of features, the development team's location and experience, and the platform (iOS, Android, or both).

 

Simple apps with basic features are on the lower end of the spectrum, while apps with advanced functionalities, integrations, and custom designs fall on the higher end.