Booming pet economy spurs pet-friendly venues in Wuxi

As China's pet economy continues to expand, cities like Wuxi in Jiangsu Province are rolling out more and more pet-friendly services and venues.

A new customized bus route in the city now allows pet owners to travel with their furry companions via public transport – an alternative to the usual taxis or private cars.

"This special bus line not only solves our parking problems, but also lets us enjoy outings with our beloved dogs," said Gu Ye, a pet owner.

The tailor-made service offers pets the chance to explore outdoor spaces farther from home while providing owners with opportunities to connect and share pet-care experiences.

The pet-friendly bus, one of the first of its kind in China, is just one example of the city's growing efforts to meet the demand for animal-welcoming spaces. In the city's Binhu District, pet owners can dine, relax, and participate in outdoor activities with their pets at pet-friendly venues.

"We've introduced fun activities like hiking with pets along a pet-friendly trail, and we regularly host pet-themed sports events at cafés, restaurants, and scenic spots to expand pet-friendly experiences," said Yang Jianjiang, a local official.

These venues are quickly becoming new social hubs for pet lovers. During this year's May Day holiday, a pet-friendly commercial complex in Binhu District recorded a 12 percent rise in average daily foot traffic compared to last year, underscoring the growing appeal of the pet-friendly cultural tourism model.