Pet owners will be able to travel in comfort following the launch of animal friendly cabins on board Stena Line services.
The ferry company operates a range of routes across the Irish Sea, including Dublin-Holyhead. Pet cabins are now available to book online.
The 70 pet friendly cabins have been introduced following consultations with customers and animal experts. A survey previously carried out by the travel provider showed that 17 per cent of animal owners refused to go on holiday if their pet couldn't be accommodated on the trip.
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Stena Line spokesperson Orla Noonan said: "We recognise pets are considered family members to many of our passengers and we wanted to really enhance our customer experience and become the best choice for pet travel. Our aim was to broaden our offering for those travelling with pets and we’re now in a position to offer pet-friendly cabins alongside our existing options of pet kennels and pets remaining in vehicles."
Plans are also in place to launch a pet lounge on Stena Line's Superfast service, which operates from Belfast to Cairnryan. A vet welcomed the inclusive measures but said that pet owners should remain vigilant about taking their pets onboard a boat.
Peter Wedderburn, a broadcaster and famous vet, said: "There are of course things to consider when bringing a pet on holiday and my top tip would be to ensure you check what documentation you might require for your pet and have this ready in advance of your trip. Also, when they are on the ferry or in the car they should have something to keep them entertained such as food-stuffed toys.”
Bookings for pet cabins can be made via Stena Line's website.
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