Pets are getting a lot more treats lately as the travel industry seeks new sources of revenue.
Or maybe travel providers are just finally waking up to the reality that animals are people, too. Well, it's more like animals have people. And those people will spend more than a few bucks to take their pets on vacation with them.
Take, for example, Southwest Airlines' new P.A.W.S. program (Pets Are Welcome on Southwest). Beginning next week (June 17), your pet will be able to fly with you in the cabin for a $75 fare each way. Since I can find a Southwest flight for $49 each way on some routes, that means it may occasionally cost more to fly your pet than it does to fly you.
Pet Airways, a new airline that begins offering flights from BWI Marshall Airport in July, will charge $150 to fly your pet. As an introductory fare. Each way. Of course, the pets get their own seats and flight attendants who will monitor them throughout the trip.
Several hotels already have pet concierges and pet mascots. Others have designer pet beds, gourmet pet food and pet amenity kits. Hilton Hotels last year began offering pet-friendly rooms, including a collection of pet products created by artist William Wegman, the photographer known for his portraits of Weimaraners. After their stay, guests can purchase the items, including bowls, pillows and a travel tote for your pet, from Hilton's Web site.
Kimpton Hotels, known for providing pet-friendly lodging, has a pet ambassador who spreads the word about their commitment to animals. Kimpton will open the Hotel Monaco Baltimore in August. No word yet on whether some lucky Maryland dog will become the hotel's mascot. Who knows, maybe a crab will snag the job.
For resources on traveling with your pet, check out bringfido.com, dogfriend dly.com or petsonthego.com.
