Rome Fiumicino Airport Now Offers Dog Hotel & Pet-Friendly Services
by Adriana ruiz
Italy’s main international gateway, Rome Fiumicino Airport, is now one of the most pet-friendly airports in Europe, thanks to the introduction of two dedicated services for dogs: the luxurious Dog Relais hotel by Fly Le Dog and multiple Pet Areas within and around the terminals. Whether you’re departing, arriving, or leaving your pet behind during your trip, Fiumicino ensures your four-legged companion is well cared for in comfort and safety.
Dog Relais: The First Dog Hotel Inside an Italian Airport
Located within the airport grounds, Dog Relais is Italy’s first-ever in-airport dog hotel — an innovative and high-end solution for travelers who can’t bring their pets on board. Designed for both short and long stays, this facility is all about comfort, well-being, and peace of mind.
What to Expect at Primo Dog Relais:
• Luxurious Lodges: The Relais boasts 40 available lodges, built with high-quality wood, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Standard Lodges: These provide a 4 sqm indoor area and a 10 sqm outdoor area (covered and uncovered). They include a fabric cushion, climate control, and an automatic water dispenser.
• Double Lodges: Designed for up to four dogs (depending on size), these feature an 8 sqm indoor area and a 20 sqm outdoor space, along with the same amenities as the Standard lodges.
• Premium Lodges: For an exclusive experience, Premium lodges offer a 4 sqm indoor area and a 10 sqm outdoor space, a leather cushion, climate control, an automatic water dispenser, a video call system, aromatherapy, and a day of SPA treatment.
• Optimal Comfort & Stimulation: All lodges feature radiant panel climate control, automatic water dispensers, and a piped music system playing at 432Hz. This specific frequency is believed to facilitate subtle communication, relax animals, reduce stress, aid in separation anxiety, and even improve sleep.
• Stay Connected: An innovative video call application allows you to stay in touch with your pet, providing peace of mind during your travels.
• Daily Care: All accommodation options include daily cleaning services and, if needed, medication administration.
Additional Services (Bookable Separately):
• Aromatherapy: Relaxing treatments with essential oils to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Grooming & Toilette: Comprehensive hygiene services, including hair cutting and general cleaning.
• Teeth Cleaning: Oral hygiene services to prevent dental issues.
• Arnica Massage: A 45-minute massage with arnica to relax muscles.
• Dog Shuttle: A convenient service for pick-up and drop-off of your dog within the airport premises if you cannot reach the facility.
Daycare Services:
Beyond overnight stays, Fly Le Dog also offers a comprehensive daycare service for your dog. Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM, the daycare provides a safe and stimulating environment. Dogs have access to a vast 1000 sqm outdoor area, divided into green spaces where they are organized by size and temperament. An indoor area is also available for play and rest during inclement weather.
Useful Information for Primo Dog Relais:
• Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday.
• Check-in: From 6:00 AM.
• Check-out: By 10:00 PM.
• For specific information, pricing details, or alternative hours, it is recommended to contact the facility directly.
Location of Primo Dog Relais:
The Dog Relais is conveniently situated at Via Antonio Zara within the Long-Term Parking area of Fiumicino Airport.
• Directions from A91 Rome-Fiumicino Motorway: Follow the “Cargo – Parcheggio Lunga Sosta” exit. Upon entering the parking area, follow the internal signage directly to the Dog Relais entrance.
• Parking Options: If you choose to leave your vehicle in the easy Parking Long-Term parking (which can be reserved on the airport’s website in the parking section), you can reach the terminals via the free Parking Shuttle, operating every 5 minutes.
• Complimentary Parking for Drop-off/Pick-up: For those who prefer to park elsewhere, the Dog Relais offers two hours of complimentary parking to facilitate a relaxed check-in process for your dog.
Pet Areas at Fiumicino Airport: For Traveling Pets
Understanding the need for dedicated spaces for pets and their owners, Fiumicino Airport has established several Pet Areas throughout its terminals. These spaces are designed to provide a comfortable and convenient spot for your animal companions during your journey.
Current Pet Area Locations:
• Terminal 3 Arrivals (Sterile Area): One pet area is located near baggage claim carousel 14.
• Terminal 1 (Schengen Area & Arrivals): New pet areas are available for both departing passengers from Pier A (Schengen area) and arriving passengers near the baggage claim. To access these areas, you will need to use an intercom and demonstrate you are accompanied by an animal.
• Terminal 3 Arrivals (External): An outdoor pet area is accessible by exiting Gate No. 2 of Terminal 3 Arrivals, heading towards the Kiss&Go parking lots on Via Generale Felice Santini. This area is open and usable by all, with posted rules at the entrance gate.
These dedicated pet areas provide a much-needed service for travelers with animals, offering a place for pets to stretch their legs and relieve themselves before or after a flight.
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