It's International Dog Day, and for many travellers, bringing their best friend on a trip is a must.
The annual observance, first held in 2004, is aimed at celebrating dogs of all breeds, to raise awareness of animal welfare and to encourage dog adoption.
The growing number of pet passengers means airlines and travel destinations are coming up with creative ways to make canine-inclusive trips not so 'ruff' for travellers.
Globally, the pet travel services market is estimated at $2.8 billion USD, with that number expected to increase to $4 billion, due in part to an increase in animal adoption and more people willing to travel with their pets.
Dog-oriented hotel offerings are on the rise, from a pet-friendly boutique hotel, complete with 'Pawsh Spa' in Los Cabos, Mexico, to a Disneyland-inspired, five-acre ranch for dogs in California, and even pet-focused airlines like BarkAir in the US or Australia's Skye Pets.
A recent report from Bloomberg says the demographic most interested in travelling with their pets, at least in the United States, is millennials, who often fall into the 'DINKWAD' (double-income, no kids, with a dog) category and are looking for luxury vacation experiences they can share with their furry friends.
Efforts are also underway to clarify the rules around travelling with a canine companion.
A 2025 survey by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that while a quarter of respondents say they'd consider travelling with their pet, a lot of questions remain about how to make that a reality.
Of those surveyed, 41% said they were uncertain about their pet's eligibility, 36% were unsure about airline policy when it comes to pets, and an additional 34% had questions about the overall process.
The IATA issued new operational guidelines last month to help airlines navigate in-cabin pet travel, coming on the heels of its recommendations for travel with service dogs.
The guidelines are suggestions on how airlines balance safety and operational efficiency alongside animal welfare and the passenger experience.
"A pet is a much-loved member of the family," said Brendan Sullivan, IATA's global head of cargo, in July.
"People traveling with their pets need clear guidance on what to expect at every step of the journey. That’s important because well-prepared travelers and industry-wide best practices enable airlines to deliver a safe, consistent, and efficient experience for those traveling with their pets."
