As Singapore transitions back to office work from the pandemic-induced work-from-home arrangement, a notable trend is emerging among pet owners seeking domestic helpers capable of caring for their furry companions in addition to traditional household tasks.
Over the past year, there has been a gradual uptick in the demand for domestic helpers adept at providing pet care, according to insights gathered from various maid agencies by Yahoo Southeast Asia.
Under the guidelines of the Ministry of Manpower’s Employment of Foreign Manpower Act, employers are permitted to engage migrant domestic workers (MDWs) to attend to household chores, including pet care duties.
An official from the Ministry of Manpower emphasized the importance of transparent communication during the hiring process regarding the expectation of pet care responsibilities to prevent potential disputes. Additionally, employers are advised to ensure adequate training for MDWs in handling such tasks.
One contributing factor to the surge in demand is attributed to the escalating costs associated with hiring part-time assistance, as highlighted by We Are Caring, an agency specializing in domestic helper placements. The agency noted an increase in inquiries for live-in helpers capable of catering specifically to pet care needs, attributing this shift to the affordability and convenience of a dedicated caregiver.
David Bensadon, managing director of We Are Caring, underscored the preference among employers for helpers who possess genuine affection for pets. Citing a recent case, he shared the story of Mai Cherry Win, who secured a job primarily focused on pet care after showcasing her affinity for animals on the agency’s mobile app.
The trend extends beyond full-time pet care roles, with an increasing number of inquiries for helpers capable of supplementing traditional duties with pet care responsibilities. Agencies such as Universal Employment Agency and Regent Maid Agency reported a rise in requests for helpers proficient in caring for pets alongside household tasks.
Even part-time helper agencies like @bsolute Cleaning have observed a surge in demand for pet-focused assistance, reflecting a broader societal shift toward considering pets as integral family members.
Fraser Noble, a dog behavior specialist, highlighted Singapore’s bustling lifestyle and growing pet ownership as driving factors behind the heightened demand for domestic helpers specializing in pet care. While acknowledging the benefits of such arrangements, Noble cautioned against overreliance on helpers for primary pet care duties, citing potential challenges such as stress and emotional attachment.
Despite the increasing demand for pet-friendly helpers, industry experts emphasize that this niche segment remains relatively small compared to traditional household duties. Requests for pet-focused helpers typically originate from pet-centric households, singles, or couples without children, indicating that such requirements are still relatively uncommon within the domestic helper industry.
While the demand for pet-friendly domestic helpers continues to grow, it remains a specialized service catering to a distinct segment of the market, underscoring the enduring significance of traditional household duties in the hiring of full-time maids.
