FIUMICINO, Italy — Travelers flying through Rome can now relax knowing their pets are cared for close by. Fiumicino International Airport has opened Dog Relais, a high-end boarding hotel right on airport grounds. The facility aims to make travel easier for owners and their dogs.
Easy Check-In for Pets
Passengers can head straight to their flights while staff collect their pets from the terminal.
“This project is part of a plan to give passengers a more complete experience,” said Marilena Blasi, chief commercial officer at Aeroporti di Roma.
Comfortable Rooms
Standard rooms start at about €40 ($47) a night. Each room has a private garden and temperature-controlled floors. Soft music with a low 432-hertz frequency plays at night to help dogs relax.
Shy pets can stay in quieter kennels along the edge of the building, where they spend time with staff instead of other dogs.
Extra Pampering
Owners can add spa-like treatments. Services include grooming, bathing, and teeth cleaning. More indulgent options range from lavender or peppermint aromatherapy to arnica cream massages for tired muscles.
Premium rooms cost about €60 ($70). They include a video screen so owners can watch their pets and even toss treats through a connected app.
Not Just for Travelers
The hotel also works as a daycare for local dog owners.
Alessandra Morelli, who works at the airport, leaves her Labrador Nina there while she travels or works. “It lets me enjoy my day in peace,” she said.
Growing Demand
Dog Relais opened in May and quickly became popular. All 40 rooms were booked in August, Italy’s main vacation month. Average occupancy since opening has been about two-thirds.
Changing Travel Rules
The launch comes as Italy allows large dogs to fly in the cabin on domestic routes if kept in secure crates. The first such flight is scheduled for September 23. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini called the rule change “a step forward in civilization.”
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