In recent years, the travel industry in Australia has seen a significant shift towards accommodating pets.
Virgin Australia has announced it will allow dogs and cats in cabins on restricted flights within the next 12 months, and the Spirit of Tasmania has just publicised its new pet-friendly offering.
The demand for pet-friendly travel is driven by several factors. Firstly, according to the RSPCA nearly 70 per cent of Australian households now have pets, with dogs being the most common (48 per cent), followed by cats (33 per cent).
But perhaps more importantly, many pet owners view their furry friends as invaluable members of the family.
Furthermore, many owners find it difficult and expensive to arrange for dog or cat-sitters and some feel guilty leaving their pets with strangers or at kennels.
DR RYAN JOPP, a tourism expert from the Swinburne University of Technology
Virgin Australia plans to allow pets in cabins later this year, pending approval from aviation regulators. Pets will be limited by size and breed and will have to remain in a travel container at the feet of their owner.
This move follows similar offerings by North American airlines, which have allowed pets in cabins for several years. While in Australia, assistance dogs are already permitted on flights.
The Spirit of Tasmania claims it will go one step further next year with its new ships (Spirit of Tasmania IV and V) featuring 18 dog-friendly cabins and a secure, climate-controlled pet housing area.
This will also include a dedicated outside area (aka the ‘poop-deck’) where you will be able to walk your pet on a lead throughout the journey.
The drivers for travel operators to offer pet-friendly services are multifaceted.
Firstly, offering pet-friendly facilities enhances the overall travel experience for pet owners, leading to higher customer satisfaction and likelihood of customer loyalty.
It may also offer a competitive advantage, attracting customers who value the ability to travel with their pets.
Additionally, pet-friendly cabins and services can create another revenue stream for travel operators, with pet owners often willing to pay a premium for the convenience and comfort of traveling with their beloved pets.
Despite the benefits for pet lovers, there are several concerns and challenges associated with pet-friendly travel.
Firstly, not everyone is an animal person and some passengers may have allergies or fear of animals.
Additionally, pet behaviour can be unpredictable. Pets may experience motion sickness, and whimpering or barking pets could disturb other passengers.
Then of course, there is also the issue of pets needing to go to the toilet during the flight/voyage. Much like any passenger, pets need to be fit to travel and the onus is on the pet owner to ensure their pet is up to it.
While the inclusion of pets in travel is a welcome development for many pet owners, it’s important to understand that not everyone will share the same affection for animals.
Therefore, airlines, cruise companies and the like must implement policies that balance the needs of pet owners with those of other travellers. This will include designated pet-friendly areas and clear guidelines on expected animal behaviour, allowed breeds and acceptable size and weight allowances.
The growth of pet-friendly services in the travel industry seems likely to continue, with airlines and other transportation providers seeing the opportunity to increase customer loyalty and satisfaction by offering safe and enjoyable travel experiences for pets and their owners.
However, ensuring the comfort and safety of both passengers and pets during travel is crucial.
Let’s face it, even the best-behaved pets may become anxious during take-off or nauseous in rough seas, leading to less-than-ideal outcomes for everyone.
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