VistaJet has launched VistaPet, in response to the steady increase in the number of passengers flying with their pets.
The company reports a 104% increase in the quantity of animals flown over the past two years – one in four VistaJet members regularly fly with a pet, while 75% of owners distrust the airlines when it comes to safely transporting their animal.
Given the surprising lack of standard rules for pet transport, VistaJet’s customer service team advises passengers on the regulations applying to their flights and destinations. It also provides details of required vaccinations, microchips, certificates and permits.
In partnership with The Dog House, VistaJet can arrange four-week fear-of-flying courses for dogs, desensitising them to inflight experiences including the smell of fuel, jet noise, cabin air pressure and the effects of turbulence.
Once on board, passengers receive a VistaPet Pochette, a travel bag containing a selection of pet-care items for use during and after flight. Bio-organic pet food from Rockster is supplied, along with Random Rewards treats for dogs, created by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux.
Also included is a Kibble Pet’s Travel Care Kit, complete with water-free shampoos and soothing wipes. Finally, Furzu rope toys should keep dogs entertained.
Following advice from clinical veterinarian and author Dr Bruce Fogle, VistaJet has even developed a balanced menu to keep pets hydrated and healthy; natural flower essences are available for mixing with pets’ drinking water to aid relaxation.
Regulations require that animals remain on a leash or in a travel cage for take-off and landing, but during flight, pets may roam the cabin or relax at their owner’s side on a handmade Labbvenn sleep mat.
A full cabin reclean is included as standard after every pet flight, but VistaPet continues at the destination, with a carefully selected collection of pet-friendly facilities and partners. The team can also help find pet walkers and trainers, or suggest experiences including pet yoga, rafting and surfing.