An airline recently announced a dog-friendly flight service that would allow pet owners to fly with their four-legged friends.
The rare times I have to travel for work, my folks take on the job of dogsitting for me. I’ve very particular about the Collie, and like many pet owners, I have a hard time trusting anyone else to take care of him. Honestly, I don’t know how parents work up the guts to drop their kids off at daycare or leave them with a babysitter. I’d be a basketcase. If I ever had to travel with my dog for any big distance, I’d have to shop for a dog-friendly flight.
I wouldn’t consider putting him in the cargo hold of an airliner. That sometimes has ended in tragedy for other dogs. I’m sure we’ve all read those horror stories.
Bark Air, a new airline that puts dogs before their human companions, took its first flight last week, CBS News reported. The flight was sold out.
So what’s their dog-friendly flight look like?
BARK Air promises to treat dogs as VIPs. From their press release:
- On travel day, dogs and their companions arrive at the airport 45 to 60 minutes before takeoff. They undergo a simple, efficient check-in process where dogs can meet other furry friends on their flight. The humans are treated to meals prepared by onsite chefs – no crates, stressful TSA checkpoints, or screening,
- Before boarding, a concierge will welcome dogs at the gate to help them settle into their experience. That will include socialization and “dog-centric cabin preparation.” The BARK Air concierge will also evaluate each dog to ensure they are enjoying their experience and adapting well.
- Also prior to boarding, the plane will be treated to a “Dogs Fly First” flight prep with calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer. All furry passengers will have access to calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable flight.
- Once onboard, dogs will be served their beverage of choice during ascent and descent to ensure they do not experience any ear discomfort commonly caused by changes in cabin pressure. A variety of BARK-branded treats, snacks, and surprises will be provided throughout the flight.
I’ve never been treated that well on any flight. Not even the one time I was able to upgrade for a tiny fee to a first-class seat.
I’m a dog lover. In fact, I’m an absolute sap when it comes to dogs. But really, does this seem a bit much to anyone else?
Speaking of a ‘bit much’…
Then there’s the price for airfare. You might want to hold on to your seat.
CBS News reported a one-way flight from New York to Los Angeles in June costs $6,000 for one dog and one human. A New York to London ticket will set you back $8,000!
Bark’s CEO told CBS News he expects the prices to come down as demand goes up. Call me crazy, but I don’t remember my economics teacher telling us that it worked quite that way.
I do like the idea of a true dog-friendly flight. My guy is so mellow that he’d probably curl up in the seat (or seats) next to me and nap.
But for that kind of money, I think my dog will be staying with the folks the next time I have to travel. They spoil him as much as I do, however, so I think he’ll be fine with that.