From Fur Trims to Forest Walks—What You Need to Know Before You Book
In Kenya, pet services are rising fast—from Syokimau’s gated estates to Kisumu’s lakeside homes. Whether you’re hosting guests with pets, managing a busy schedule, or simply giving your furry friend a treat, verified groomers, walkers, and sitters ensure safety, hygiene, and joy. This guide breaks down real costs, service types, regional trends, and how to hire trusted pet professionals through Balozy.
💰 National Snapshot: Pet Service Costs in Kenya (2025)
| Service Type | Cost Range (KES) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Grooming (bath, brush) | 1,000–3,000 | Includes shampoo, drying, brushing |
| Full Grooming (trim, nails) | 2,500–6,000 | Includes haircut, nail clipping, ear cleaning |
| Dog Walking (30–60 mins) | 500–2,000 | Includes leash handling, hydration |
| Forest Walks (Karura, Ngong) | 1,500–3,500 | Includes transport, handler, snacks |
| Pet Sitting (daytime) | 1,000–3,000/day | Includes feeding, play, supervision |
| Pet Sitting (overnight) | 2,000–5,000/night | Includes sleepover, updates, feeding |
| Cat Grooming | 1,500–4,000 | Includes brushing, nail trim, ear cleaning |
| Nail Clipping Only | 500–1,000 | Quick service, often walk-in |
| Pet Taxi (pickup/drop-off) | 500–2,000 | Includes crate, handler, fuel |
| Pet Boarding (per night) | 2,000–6,000 | Includes meals, play, supervision |
| Puppy Training (basic) | 3,000–10,000+ | Includes commands, leash, toilet |
| Pet Photography Session | 2,000–8,000 | Includes props, edits, prints |
| Monthly Grooming Subscription | 5,000–15,000 | Includes 2–4 sessions |
| Emergency Vet Transport | 1,000–3,000 | Includes crate, handler, fuel |
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🏙️ City-by-City Breakdown
1. Nairobi
Kenya’s pet care capital—home to mobile groomers, forest walkers, and luxury sitters.
- Full Grooming (e.g., Westlands, Kilimani):
- KSh 3,000–6,000
- Includes bath, trim, nails, ears
- Dog Walking (Karura Forest):
- KSh 1,500–3,500
- Includes transport, handler, hydration
- Pet Sitting (overnight):
- KSh 2,500–5,000/night
- Includes updates, feeding, play
Balozy Tip: Nairobi handlers often offer WhatsApp updates and photo check-ins—perfect for short-stay hosts and estate managers.
2. Machakos
Affordable and expressive—Machakos pet pros serve estates, schools, and short-stay builds.
- Basic Grooming (e.g., Syokimau, Mlolongo):
- KSh 1,000–2,500
- Includes bath, brush, drying
- Dog Walking (estate routes):
- KSh 500–1,500
- Includes leash handling and hydration
- Pet Sitting (daytime):
- KSh 1,000–3,000/day
- Includes feeding, play, supervision
Balozy Tip: Many Machakos handlers offer estate-wide packages—great for gated communities and short-stay hosts.
3. Mombasa
Coastal pet care blends tropical grooming, beach walks, and Swahili hospitality.
- Cat Grooming (e.g., Nyali, Bamburi):
- KSh 1,500–4,000
- Includes brushing, nail trim, ear cleaning
- Pet Boarding (resort-style):
- KSh 3,000–6,000/night
- Includes meals, play, supervision
- Pet Taxi (pickup/drop-off):
- KSh 1,000–2,000
- Includes crate, handler, fuel
Balozy Tip: Ask for coastal-experienced groomers—humidity affects fur drying, skin prep, and flea control.
4. Kisumu
Lake-side pet care focuses on cultural pride, natural healing, and guest-ready comfort.
- Full Grooming (e.g., Milimani, Manyatta):
- KSh 2,500–5,000
- Includes bath, trim, nails, ears
- Pet Sitting (overnight):
- KSh 2,000–4,000/night
- Includes sleepover, feeding, play
- Pet Photography Session:
- KSh 2,000–6,000
- Includes props, edits, prints
Balozy Tip: Ask for Luo-inspired pet names and accessories—perfect for legacy homes and cultural short-stays.
5. Eldoret
Known for spacious compounds and farm-friendly pet setups.
- Dog Walking (compound routes):
- KSh 500–1,500
- Includes leash handling and hydration
- Pet Grooming (mobile):
- KSh 2,000–4,000
- Includes bath, trim, nails
- Emergency Vet Transport:
- KSh 1,000–3,000
- Includes crate, handler, fuel
Balozy Tip: Eldoret handlers often offer generator-friendly setups—ask for rural packages and travel rates.
🐶 What’s Included in Pet Services?
| Service Element | Included? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bath & Shampoo | ✅ | Verified groomers only |
| Nail Clipping | ✅ | Included in full grooming |
| Ear Cleaning | ✅ | Optional or bundled |
| Leash & Handler | ✅ | For walking services |
| Feeding & Play | ✅ | For sitting and boarding |
| WhatsApp Updates | ✅ | Available for most Balozy pros |
| Safety & Hygiene | ✅ | Clean towels, PPE, sanitization |
| Transport Crate | ✅/❌ | Optional for pet taxi |
| Overnight Supervision | ✅ | For sitting and boarding |
| Training & Commands | ✅/❌ | Optional add-on |
| Photography & Prints | ✅/❌ | Optional for events |
Balozy Tip: Always confirm breed compatibility, grooming tools, and handler experience before booking.
🧠 What Affects Pet Service Costs?
✅ Pet Size & Breed
- Larger dogs cost more to groom and walk
- Long-haired breeds require more time
✅ Location
- Nairobi and Mombasa rates are higher
- Transport to rural areas adds KSh 500–2,000
✅ Service Type
- Full grooming, overnight sitting, and forest walks cost more than basic care
✅ Handler Experience
- Verified handlers charge more for safety and consistency
✅ Occasion Type
- Weddings, birthdays, and travel may require premium packages
💡 Smart Ways to Save on Pet Services
- Use Verified Balozy Handlers: Compare ratings, portfolios, and breed experience
- Bundle Services: Combine grooming, walking, and sitting for discounts
- Choose Local Talent: Hiring within your town reduces transport fees
- Book Early: Weekend and holiday slots fill up fast
- Ask for WhatsApp Estimates: Avoid surprises with clear scope and pricing
📲 How to Hire a Pet Groomer, Walker, or Sitter Using the Balozy App
Step-by-Step:
- Download the Balozy App
- Tap “Find a Service”
- Select “Pet Services” or search keywords like “dog walker,” “pet groomer,” “pet sitter,” or “pet taxi”
- Filter by Location & Pet Type
- Choose your area and service preference
- Browse Verified Profiles
- View ratings, portfolios