Pet industry and ownership trends expand across Latin America

The pet industry is experiencing significant growth and cultural shifts across Latin America. In Argentina, the sector has become a major economic driver, generating approximately USD 3.2 billion annually, which represents half a percentage point of the national GDP. This growth is attributed to the ‘humanization of pets,’ with 80% of Argentine households now living with at least one animal. Adoption remains the primary way pets enter homes, accounting for 63% of cases.

Beyond economics, researchers are studying the sociological impact of pet ownership. Studies suggest that the increasing number of pets may correlate with declining birth rates in some regions, as pets fulfill emotional and caregiving needs. However, experts note that this is part of a broader transformation in family structures rather than a direct replacement for children.

Public health initiatives are also expanding to manage pet populations. In Guayaquil, Ecuador, over 17,000 free sterilizations have been performed in 2026 to prevent disease and overpopulation. Similarly, Quito is organizing mass sterilization campaigns, and in Mexico, veterinarians report a significant increase in sterilization procedures as owners move past traditional myths to prioritize animal health.