Travelling with pets can often be challenging. Dogs might have to endure long hours on a leash, confined to a ventilated bag or kennel. However, things are changing for the better. BARK, a company specialising in dog food and toys, has teamed up with a jet charter service to launch BARK Air, the first airline that prioritises dogs over their human companions. Yes, you read that right. Now dogs have their very own airline. As per a report by CBS News, BARK Air on Thursday, took its first flight. The maiden flight, which was sold out, departed from New York for Los Angeles at 4:00 p.m. EST.
Announcing its first journey, the official Instagram page of BARK Air shared a picture of a Golden Retriever sitting inside the flight. Sharing the picture it wrote, “Right now, at an altitude of 30,000 feet, there is a flight filled with dogs. Unlike any flight before it, these dogs are not merely an afterthought, nor are they treated as cargo or a burden to the crew and fellow travellers. Here, dogs are the foremost priority. Every single detail of this flight experience has been crafted with a ‘dogs-first' mindset. It has taken 10 years, but we are finally confident that we can provide all dogs with the air travel experience they deserve: one that puts them first. We could not be more excited to finally be able to welcome your dog (and you) on board.”
The company announced the concept in April. The air travel service markets itself as catering to pets before human passengers, acknowledging how stressful and uncomfortable commercial air travel can be for animals. This is the second airline catering to dogs. Before this, United Kingdom-based public charter operator K9 jets also announced services for passengers' pets to travel next to them, rather than in crates in the cargo.
What to expect in BARK Air
Once the customer books a ticket on the flight, they need to “arrive at the airport 1 hour before the flight for a simple, efficient check-in process and security screening – no crates, no stressful lines.” The official site states that from the check-in point, the BARK Air concierge will welcome all the pets and help them settle in the dog-centric cabins.
It added, “We never book to their full capacity to ensure you and your dog have enough room to spread out comfortably.” That's not all! These dog-centric cabins are specially prepped “with calming aids such as pheromone, music, warm lavender scented refreshment towels, and other comforts to help each dog feel settled.”
Wait there is more. Each of the concierge on the flight carries a “'just in case' bag filled with calming treats, leashes, poop bags, and more”.
The site added, “Once onboard, dogs will be served their beverage of choice (water, bone broth, you name it), during ascent and descent to ensure they do not experience any ear discomfort commonly caused by the change in cabin pressure. In addition, a variety of BARK-branded treats, snacks, and surprises will be served throughout the flight experience.”
CommentsAlso Read: Travel To This Vermont Farm In USA To Play, Pet And Hang Out With A Gang Of Golden Retrievers
