Discover 3 Guest Services Now Catering to Our Furry Best Friends

It seems that the hospitality industry is taking notice of a new type of client – one that walks on four legs, loves to play, and can’t wait for us to come home from work. Yes, dogs.

Medical facilities, restaurants, and even airlines are reworking their operations so they can provide services for man’s best friend. If you know anyone who owns a dog, you know they’re willing to invest in their beloved pets.

business analysis website MarketWatch reports that over the last 10 years American pet owners have increased pet spending by more than 67%. About a quarter of dog owners spend between $101 and $250 monthly on their furry family members.

Serving the canine client can open additional revenue streams for businesses, especially ones that use existing resources to offer up more ways to sell.

Veterinary clinics are altering staff and services to accommodate walk-ins at an attractive rate, while cafes and bistros use their inventory to whip up animal-friendly menu items. Even airplanes are making room so dogs can fly comfortably sitting next to their human companions instead of in a cramped cargo hold.

In this case, services going to the dogs isn’t a bad thing. Here’s how some companies are expanding to not only include but prioritize these special guests.

Instant, affordable healthcare

Humans have been performing veterinary procedures since 3000 BC – possibly even before that. We’ve developed ways to take care of animals ever since we domesticated them. Although animal medicine is not new, the way in which it’s being delivered is transforming.

Urgent care centers for pets are now popping up in neighborhoods. Their primary focus is to mimic human urgent care centers with quick, convenient medical care that doesn’t break the bank. Places like UrgentVet in Plantation, Florida advertise “same-day care priced up to 40% less than the emergency vet.” Medical services include a range of treatments for skin allergies, toxin ingestion, colds and flus, and urinary incontinence issues.

Serving walk-ins and appointments all year round makes it easy for Fido to get the same kind of healing as humans would when either under the weather or injured.

Tasty, healthy dining options

Many restaurants now open their doors to dogs. In some places, it’s encouraged to bring your pet and hang out on the patio with other pet owners. But what about a menu catering directly to dogs?

A few years ago, culinary magazine Food & Wine released a list of restaurants featuring special dishes designed for dogs. Some of the destinations included a farm-to-table hotspot featuring “Beefloaf” and grilled chicken breast, a cafe offering “Peanut-Banana Pupsicles” as well as savory dog-friendly dinners, and a beer garden dishing up specially selected sausages while advertising local animal shelters weekly.

South Florida locations do the same, recently adding doggie dining specials at trendy downtown restaurants like Casa Sensei in Fort Lauderdale (they make sushi rolls for dogs) and waterfront heaven Deck 84 in Delray Beach (dogs get their choice of hot-and-fresh chicken, beef, or fish).

Fancy first-class flights

Described as a “white paw” experience, BARK Air has upped the travel game when it comes to flying with dogs.

Usually, dogs that don’t fit in carriers and under a seat have to be stored in a plane’s cargo hold. If you’re traveling internationally, it’s usually a requirement to keep animals there regardless. Horror stories have circulated about dogs suffering on flights, sometimes their treatment even resulting in death. Add to this the fees, registration, and anxiety and it’s no wonder a dog-dedicated airline was born.

BARK Air places dogs’ needs first throughout the flight process. They offer easy check-ins and security screenings without the stress of standing in line, crate in tow. Their highly-trained concierge staff help pups settle into their seats, and cabins have dog-calming features like soothing music and scents. Dogs even have their choice of beverages and snacks, and BARK Air promises none of the usual ear discomfort from changes in cabin pressure.

It’s an expensive treat to travel this way, but guests are willing to pay the price to ensure the comfort of their dearest companions.