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Life

This Dog-Friendly Flight Might Break the Budget!

A bowl of dog food on a tray in front of an empty airline seatDeposit Photos

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.

the authorPatrick
Patrick is a Christian with more than 30 years experience in professional writing, producing and marketing. His professional background also includes social media, reporting for broadcast television and the web, directing, videography and photography. He enjoys getting to know people over coffee and spending time with his dog.