UPDATE: Rome’s Fiumicino International Airport has just launched a groundbreaking on-site hotel for dogs, revolutionizing travel for pet owners. This innovative facility, named Dog Relais, aims to ease the stress of leaving pets behind and is one of the first of its kind at a major European airport.
The new service allows dog owners to drop off their pets directly at the airport, where staff will retrieve them from the terminal. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the passenger experience, according to Marilena Blasi, chief commercial officer at Aeroporti di Roma. “In this case, we provide services to dogs and the owners of the dogs,” Blasi stated.
Basic accommodations at Dog Relais start at approximately $47 (AUD 71), featuring temperature-controlled floors and private gardens. For dogs requiring a quieter environment, kennels at the edge of the facility offer individual care with staff interaction instead of playtime with other dogs.
At night, calming ambient music, specifically at a low frequency of 432 hertz, is played to promote relaxation. Pet owners can also indulge their furry friends with optional services, including grooming, aromatherapy, and even a premium room equipped for video calls at $70 (AUD 106). This allows owners to check in on their pets in real-time and even dispense treats through an app.
The dog hotel is not just for travelers; it also serves as a daycare for local pet owners. Alessandra Morelli, who works in human resources for Aeroporti di Roma, expressed how Dog Relais has transformed her life. “It allows me to enjoy my working day and my personal travels in total peace and tranquility,” she shared.
Pet owners like Dario Chiassarini have also embraced the facility, bringing his Rottweiler puppy, Athena, for training and care. “This is a service we will rely on without hesitation,” Chiassarini noted, highlighting the trust built with the staff and their love for animals.
The hotel has seen remarkable success since its opening in May 2023, with all 40 rooms fully booked last month as Italians took their summer vacations. Average occupancy has remained around two-thirds since the launch.
Adding to the excitement, Italy’s commercial aviation authority recently revised rules to allow large dogs to fly in cabins for domestic flights, effective from Tuesday, August 15, 2023, as confirmed by Transport Minister Matteo Salvini. He acknowledged the mixed feelings regarding the new policy but emphasized its significance for pet owners.
As travel options for pets expand, Fiumicino Airport’s Dog Relais stands out as a model for integrating pet care into the travel experience. With growing demand and innovative services, this facility is set to change how pet owners navigate their journeys.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the wider implications for pet-friendly travel in Europe.
