London is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the world, home to an estimated 1.2 million dogs and over 800,000 cats. The capital offers an incredible range of pet services, from world-renowned veterinary hospitals to boutique grooming salons and sprawling urban parks perfect for dog walking. Whether you live in Zone 1 or the outer suburbs, finding quality care for your pet has never been easier.
Veterinary Services Across London
London boasts some of the finest veterinary facilities in the UK, ranging from small independent practices to specialist referral hospitals. The Royal Veterinary College in Camden offers cutting-edge treatments and serves as a training ground for the next generation of vets, while numerous private practices throughout the boroughs provide excellent day-to-day care.
When choosing a vet in London, consider the location carefully. Traffic and public transport can make getting across the city challenging, especially in emergencies. Many pet owners find it beneficial to have both a local practice for routine care and knowledge of a 24-hour emergency hospital for after-hours situations.
Emergency veterinary services are particularly important in London. Several hospitals operate around the clock, including practices in Victoria, Wandsworth, and North London. Knowing where your nearest emergency vet is located could save precious time in a crisis. Keep their contact details saved in your phone and consider doing a practice journey so you know the route.
Specialist veterinary services are readily available throughout London. Whether your pet needs orthopaedic surgery, oncology treatment, cardiology assessment, or dermatology consultation, you will find board-certified specialists working in the capital. Many general practices can refer you directly to these specialists when needed.
Dog Grooming Services
London's dog grooming scene is thriving, with options ranging from mobile groomers who come to your door to luxury spa experiences for pampered pooches. The city has grooming salons specialising in virtually every breed, from Poodle parlours offering intricate clips to specialists in double-coated breeds like Huskies and Samoyeds.
Mobile grooming has become increasingly popular in London, particularly for busy professionals or pet owners with nervous dogs who prefer familiar surroundings. These services bring fully equipped vans to your address, complete with bathing facilities, grooming tables, and all necessary equipment. While typically more expensive than salon visits, the convenience factor makes them worthwhile for many London pet owners.
Salon grooming offers a more traditional experience, often with the added benefit of socialisation for your dog. Many London grooming salons have open-plan designs where dogs can see each other, helping nervous pets feel more comfortable. Some salons offer premium services including blueberry facials, pawdicures, and even dog-safe colour treatments for the fashion-forward pet owner.
When selecting a groomer, always ask about their qualifications and experience with your specific breed. A groomer experienced with Cockapoos may not be the best choice for a show-standard Bichon Frise. Request to see their work through photos or social media, and consider booking a trial session before committing to a full groom.
Pricing for grooming in London varies significantly by area and service level. Central London salons often charge premium rates, while suburban groomers may offer better value. A standard full groom for a medium-sized dog typically ranges from £45 to £80, with prices increasing for larger breeds or those requiring extensive dematting work.
Dog Walking and Pet Sitting
With so many Londoners working full-time, professional dog walking services have become essential for maintaining dogs' physical and mental wellbeing. The city has hundreds of registered dog walkers offering everything from quick lunchtime comfort breaks to full-day adventures in London's many parks and green spaces.
Group walks are popular and cost-effective, allowing your dog to socialise while getting exercise. However, always verify that the walker limits group sizes to manageable numbers, typically no more than four to six dogs. Larger groups can be difficult to control and may not provide adequate supervision for each animal.
Solo walks suit dogs who prefer individual attention or have specific needs, such as reactive dogs working through training programmes or elderly pets requiring a gentler pace. These one-to-one services cost more but ensure your dog receives focused care throughout the session.
Many London dog walkers now use GPS tracking apps, sending you real-time updates and route maps during walks. This technology provides peace of mind and lets you see exactly where your dog has been and how much exercise they have received. Some services also include photo updates throughout the day.
Pet sitting services range from drop-in visits to overnight stays in your home or the sitter's residence. London prices for overnight pet sitting typically start around £40 per night, with premium services commanding higher rates. Always meet potential sitters before booking and check their insurance and references thoroughly.
Pet Shops and Supplies
London offers everything from large pet store chains to independent boutiques specialising in premium and natural products. The city has seen a surge in specialist pet shops focusing on raw feeding, organic treats, and sustainable pet products in recent years.
Independent pet shops often provide more knowledgeable service and stock higher-quality products than chain stores. Many London independents specialise in particular niches, whether that is raw food, natural supplements, or breed-specific products. Building a relationship with a local independent can be invaluable for getting tailored advice about your pet's needs.
For everyday supplies, supermarkets and large pet chains offer convenience and competitive pricing. Online delivery services have also transformed how Londoners shop for pet supplies, with next-day delivery available from most major retailers. However, for specialist items or advice, nothing beats visiting a knowledgeable local shop.
Raw feeding has grown enormously popular in London, with numerous shops now offering fresh and frozen raw food options. Proper storage and handling are essential with raw diets, so ensure you have adequate freezer space and understand safe handling practices before switching your pet to raw feeding.
Kennels, Catteries, and Boarding
Finding quality boarding for London pets can be challenging, particularly during peak holiday seasons. The city itself has limited kennel space due to property prices, meaning many boarding facilities are located in the surrounding counties. Planning ahead and booking early is essential, especially for Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays.
Home boarding has become a popular alternative to traditional kennels, with your pet staying in a carer's home rather than a facility. This option suits dogs who struggle in kennel environments or those needing more individual attention. Licensed home boarders in London must meet specific council requirements and undergo regular inspections.
Catteries around London range from basic to luxury, with some offering private suites, heated sleeping areas, and even webcam access so you can check on your cat remotely. When visiting potential catteries, check cleanliness, ventilation, and the general demeanour of cats already in residence. Happy, relaxed cats are a good sign.
Dog daycare has exploded in popularity across London, providing socialisation and stimulation for dogs while their owners work. These facilities range from basic playroom setups to elaborate campuses with swimming pools, agility equipment, and trained behaviourists on staff. Tour facilities before enrolling your dog and ensure their temperament suits group play environments.
Parks and Exercise Areas
London is blessed with numerous parks and open spaces ideal for exercising dogs. From the vast expanses of Richmond Park and Hampstead Heath to smaller neighbourhood green spaces, there are options throughout the capital for off-lead adventures and on-lead strolls.
Richmond Park deserves special mention as one of the best places in London to exercise dogs. The 2,500-acre royal park allows dogs off-lead in most areas, though they must be kept under close control near deer, particularly during the autumn rutting season and spring fawning period.
Hampstead Heath offers 790 acres of rolling hills and woodland, with designated dog swimming areas in the ponds. The Heath is hugely popular with dog owners, particularly during mornings and evenings when you will encounter dozens of dogs enjoying their daily exercise.
Victoria Park in East London, Battersea Park in the south, and Regent's Park in central London all offer excellent facilities for dog owners. Many parks have designated dog-free zones, particularly around children's play areas and cafes, so familiarise yourself with local rules.
Training and Behaviour Services
London has excellent options for dog training, from puppy socialisation classes to advanced obedience and specialist behaviour modification. The city's trainers include many certified professionals using modern, positive reinforcement methods proven to be both effective and kind.
Puppy classes are essential for London dogs, who need early exposure to the sights, sounds, and situations they will encounter in urban life. Good puppy classes introduce young dogs to different surfaces, sounds, people, and other dogs in a controlled, positive environment. Start classes as soon as your puppy has had their initial vaccinations.
For dogs with behavioural issues, qualified behaviourists can assess and create tailored modification programmes. Look for professionals with recognised qualifications such as CCAB (Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist) or APBC membership. Beware of unqualified trainers using outdated dominance-based methods, which can worsen behaviour problems and damage your relationship with your dog.
Finding the Right Services
With so many options available, finding the right pet services in London requires research. Ask other pet owners for recommendations, check online reviews, and always visit facilities before committing. The best providers will welcome questions and be happy to show you around.
Local social media groups and community forums can be excellent sources of recommendations. Facebook groups dedicated to dog owners in specific London boroughs often share honest reviews and warnings about local services. Your vet can also recommend groomers, trainers, and boarding facilities they trust.
Price should not be your only consideration when choosing pet services. The cheapest option is rarely the best, and cutting corners on pet care can lead to poor outcomes or even harm. That said, the most expensive service is not automatically superior either. Look for value, which means quality care at a fair price from qualified, caring professionals.
London offers everything a pet owner could need, but the sheer number of options can feel overwhelming. Take your time, do your research, and build relationships with providers you trust. Your pet deserves the best care available, and in London, the best is truly excellent.