Innovative pet Care Solutions at Fiumicino Airport
FIUMICINO, Italy (AP) — For pet owners, the dilemma of whether to leave their beloved dogs with a sitter or at a kennel before traveling can be quite challenging. Both options require careful planning and can often led to stress for both the pets and their owners.
A New Era in Pet Accommodation
In an effort to alleviate this issue, Rome’s Fiumicino International airport has introduced one of Europe’s pioneering on-site pet hotels, inspired by a similar initiative in Frankfurt. The Dog Relais facility even offers a service where staff members retrieve dogs directly from the terminal, allowing travelers to head straight to their flights without delay.
“This initiative is evolving into a way to create an exceptionally immersive experience for our passengers,” stated Marilena Blasi, Chief Commercial Officer at Aeroporti di Roma, which oversees both airports in the Italian capital. “We are providing services not just for travelers but also specifically tailored for their canine companions.”
Luxurious Amenities for Pets
The standard accommodations at Dog Relais start around €40 ($47) per night and feature climate-controlled floors along with private gardens. For dogs that may feel anxious or prefer solitude, there are specialized kennels located on the outskirts of the facility where they can interact with staff rather than other animals within communal grassy areas. To enhance relaxation during nighttime hours, soothing ambient music set at 432 hertz is played through speakers in each room.
Add-On Services for Pampered Pooches
the resort also offers various optional services ranging from basic grooming and dental care to more luxurious treatments like aromatherapy using calming lavender or peppermint scents designed to promote tranquility. Additionally,arnica cream is available for application on sore muscles and joints.
High-Tech Monitoring Options
Paw-rents who find traditional webcams inadequate can opt for premium rooms priced at €60 (approximately $70), equipped with screens that facilitate 24/7 video calls.Owners can even treat their pets remotely by dispensing treats via an app connected to a treat dispenser.
h2>A Comprehensive Solution beyond travel Needs
This innovative facility caters not onyl to travelers but also serves local dog owners seeking daycare solutions.
Alessandra Morelli works in human resources at Aeroporti di roma and frequently leaves her two-year-old chocolate Labrador Retriever named Nina there while she works.
“Sence I started bringing Nina here, my life has transformed significantly,” shared Morelli, 47. “It allows me peace of mind knowing she’s well cared for while I balance my professional responsibilities with personal travel.”
A Trustworthy Surroundings
Dario Chiassarini began taking his Rottweiler puppy Athena to Dog Relais primarily due its cleanliness and convenient location; he appreciates its training services as well. He plans on utilizing this resort whenever he travels with his girlfriend.
“We trust them fully because we’ve gotten acquainted with the staff,” said Chiassarini who works in automotive sales. “Their genuine affection towards animals gives us confidence about leaving Athena here.”
A Growing Popularity among Travelers
The dog hotel has quickly gained popularity; all 40 rooms were fully booked last August during Italy’s peak summer travel season when millions passed through Fiumicino Airport. Since opening its doors in May, occupancy rates have averaged nearly two-thirds capacity according to Blasi’s reports.
This past May coincided with new regulations from Italy’s aviation authority allowing larger dogs onboard domestic flights if secured within crates—a meaningful change aimed at accommodating pet lovers traveling by air.
The inaugural flight under these new guidelines is scheduled for September 23rd as announced by Transport Minister Matteo Salvini.
Salvini acknowledged mixed feelings among passengers regarding flying alongside pets but emphasized progress: “While some may have reservations about it,” he remarked during a pet conference held on September 16th,
“I see it as both enjoyable and indicative of societal advancement.”
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