Pet Expo 2024 set to unveil latest technological innovations for pet care
Veterinarians and sales managers converged at a press briefing on Friday to announce the latest medical devices and technology that can be used to enhance the well-being of pets.
These devices and other products will be showcased at the four-day Pet Expo 2024, which kicks off on May 9 at Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre.
According to national statistics, Thailand’s pet industry has been experiencing a steady 5-10% growth annually since 2011. This year, the market is expected to exceed 50 billion baht in value, with pet owners forecast to spend up to 20,000 baht per person for their beloved furry companions.
The Commerce Ministry’s Department of Business Development expects Thailand’s pet industry to reach 66.7 billion baht in value by 2026.
With people adopting more animals nowadays, it is becoming necessary to provide more comprehensive veterinarian services, Dr Nawaporn Choupreecha, a vet from Thonglor Animal Hospital, told the press. He also underscored the need for faster and more accurate diagnosis of conditions at pet hospitals and clinics.
He said that Thonglor Animal Hospital has been at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge medical equipment tailored for pets, including MRI, ultrasound and echocardiogram machines. The hospital has also introduced minimally invasive endoscopic surgery technology, aimed at reducing wounds and cutting down recovery time for pets after surgery.
Dr Supapat Piyachaiwut, founder and practising doctor at Hato Wellness Centre, said early diagnosis and preventive measures are key to safeguarding the well-being of pets. Hence, he said, pet owners should schedule regular check-ups at pet wellness centres, where services such as aromatherapy, spa treatments, massage and grooming are also available.
The vet also advocates the use of supplements, saying they will help improve the animals’ immunity and vitality as canned or packaged food do not provide adequate nutritional support.
A sales manager at an ecommerce company, GUC Group, said his firm plans to apply artificial intelligence to pet-related products, such as creating surveillance devices that can identify pets through facial recognition. Currently, one of the most popular products supplied via the group’s pet shop, Navi Pet, is a small cubicle that automatically blow dries the pet when it steps into the device.
