The travel industry is seeing a significant increase in pet-friendly travel, with one major travel agency reporting a 178% rise in inquiries containing "dog" or "pet" over the past year. Henley Vasquez, co-founder of the travel agency Fora, noted that traveling with pets is akin to family-friendly travel, requiring owners to consider their pets as an additional person on the trip.
This trend is prompting hotels and travel services to offer specialized amenities and experiences for pets. Europe is frequently cited as a pet-friendly destination, but international travel with animals involves navigating requirements such as vaccine proof, breed certifications, and various forms. Luxury airlines like JSX and concierge services such as Bark Air are emerging to simplify these complex logistics, albeit at a higher cost.
Domestically, several establishments are enhancing their pet offerings. The Montauk Yacht Club, for instance, welcomes dogs to its beach from mid-September. The hotel provides accommodations with food, bowls, and treats, charging a nightly fee with a portion donated to animal welfare.
In New York City, The Mark Hotel caters to its four-legged guests with amenities including plush dog beds, custom bowls, and even an alcohol-free fragrance mist designed for dogs. The hotel also offers a gourmet menu curated by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and a pedicab service for shopping excursions.
For those seeking mountain adventures, The Hythe in Vail, Colorado, offers ground-floor rooms with direct access to hiking trails. The hotel's marketplace provides canine snacks and travel accessories, welcoming up to two dogs per room with a pet fee.
The glamping brand AutoCamp has partnered with dogcare brand Woof to create "Camp Woof" at its various US locations. This collaboration includes welcome kits, dog-friendly programming, and events like puppy yoga and "Yappy Hours," with pet fees currently waived.
Internationally, Paris's Hôtel de Crillon offers a personalized pet program that includes bespoke welcomes, gifts from luxury pet brands, and artisanal treats. The hotel's concierge team also provides a pet-friendly guide to the city and unique wellness experiences for canine guests.