Canine Resorts are popping up at some of America’s largest airports. A growing number of airports are seeing 24-hour pet hotels being built inside or near their compounds, saving travelers the headache of scrambling to drop off their dogs or cats at neighborhood kennels. Travelers can find pet hotels near the airports at Jacksonville, New Orleans and Portland, Ore. Pet hotel operators have plans to open facilities or are in discussions with Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Chicago O’Hare, Chicago Midway, Houston Bush Intercontinental, Houston Hobby and Minneapolis.
Since more people that travel have pets, it’s a natural progression of services that airports should offer. Airports are also looking to boost their non-aviation revenue. And Pet Paradise are big business. Americans spend $3 billion a year boarding and grooming their pets, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturing Association.
Airports and their private partners are betting that 24-hour service and proximity to the terminal are enough to entice customers away from neighborhood kennels, which often close early and open late. Flexible hours and convenience are a big plus for busy travelers. Daily rates for Canine Resorts can range widely — from $15 a night for a cage at the local veterinarian office to $70 for a large room with extra perks.
Pet Paradise, has two locations within a mile of the airports at Jacksonville and New Orleans and plans to open at Houston Intercontinental and Houston Hobby. They charge $30 per night for their basic package. The rate includes a $2 premium, compared with its in-town locations, for the extra hours.
Airport pet hotels andPet Paradise typically offer more upscale amenities than the average kennel, such as beds, non-caged rooms with outdoor access, and in-ground swimming pools. Some posh pooch hotels even offer swimming pools and webcams that let owners check on their pets remotely. Flat-screen TV’s and slumber parties are also an option for pets that don’t want to be left alone.
Apparently the sky’s the limit when it comes to catering to man’s best friend!
