As more and more people consider their pets to be members of the family, it’s no surprise that pet-friendly travel has become an increasingly popular trend in recent years. In fact, a 2021 survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association found that 67% of U.S. households owned a pet, and 39% of those pet owners traveled with their furry companions.

The demand for pet-friendly travel has led to numerous innovations and trends in the industry, from specialized pet-friendly accommodations to new transportation options. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most exciting developments in pet travel and what the future may hold for traveling with pets.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

One of the biggest challenges of traveling with a pet is finding accommodations that allow animals. However, in recent years, more and more hotels, vacation rentals, and other lodging options have become pet-friendly.

Some hotels even go above and beyond to cater to pets, offering amenities like dog beds, bowls, and treats upon arrival. Others have designated pet-friendly floors or rooms with easy outdoor access for walks and playtime.

Another trend in pet-friendly accommodations is the rise of pet-centric hotels and resorts. These establishments offer a variety of pet-focused amenities and activities, such as doggie daycare, grooming services, and even pet-friendly pools.

The Future: As the demand for pet-friendly accommodations continues to grow, we can expect to see even more specialized lodging options for pet owners. Hotels and resorts may start offering pet-sitting services or on-site veterinarians, and some may even introduce pet-friendly spas and wellness centers.

Transportation

Transportation has traditionally been a challenge for pet owners, as many forms of public transportation don’t allow animals. However, new transportation options have emerged in recent years to make pet travel more accessible.

For example, Amtrak now allows pets on select trains, and several airlines have introduced pet-specific programs that cater to pet owners’ needs. Some airlines even have designated pet lounges at airports and offer in-flight pet entertainment and meals.

Another trend in pet transportation is the rise of pet ride-sharing services. Companies like Uber and Lyft now offer pet-friendly rides, and some services specifically cater to pet owners with vehicles equipped with pet-friendly features like built-in pet restraints and air conditioning.

The Future: As the demand for pet-friendly transportation continues to grow, we may see more airlines and public transportation providers introduce pet-specific programs. We may also see the introduction of pet-friendly rental cars, making road trips with pets even more accessible.

Pet Health and Safety

Pet owners are understandably concerned about their pets’ health and safety when traveling. Fortunately, several innovations have emerged in recent years to address these concerns.

One trend is the use of technology to monitor pets’ health and location. GPS trackers, for example, allow pet owners to keep track of their pets’ whereabouts and ensure they don’t wander off or get lost while on vacation.

Another innovation in pet health and safety is the rise of pet travel insurance. These policies can help cover unexpected veterinary bills or emergency medical expenses that may arise while traveling with a pet.