Australians have praised the recent upgrade to Sydney Airport’s pet toilets, which first opened in 2020 at its domestic and international terminals.
The majority of pets using the toilets are disability support animals, canine units and guide dogs, which was improved last year.
Pet toilets also include a water bowl, dog bags for collecting dog waste, and a faucet for washing.
There is even a grassy area for dogs to do their business.
‘It’s fantastic. My dog uses it every time we are at the airport! He is a hearing dog and that is why he is allowed to fly with me,” said one of them.
Another said it was something he would like to see added to every airport in the world.
“It’s great to see more and more places recognizing the need and accepting service/therapy dogs and hopefully pets will be able to fly like they do in the US and Europe.”
‘Bunnings should do the same. “It may limit dogs from pooping on the floor,” a third added.
At this stage, only registered assistance animals can use the toilets, but that rule may change in 2025 as Virgin announced it will trial pets in the cabins of domestic flights.
Sydney Airport has updated its pet toilet to include a new feature
Artificial grass has been added for registered pets who visit the airport and need to go to the bathroom.
Virgin announced new rules that will allow dogs and cats to travel with their owners in March 2024.
It will be the first and so far the only major local airline to allow the transportation of small animals.
Virgin’s new service is still awaiting regulatory approval, but is expected to launch later this year.
Virgin Australia announced in 2024 that it will allow small pets to board domestic flights with their owners in 2025.
Once approved, pets may be stored in approved carriers that fit under the seat in front of their owners.
Pets will not be allowed to leave their carriers during the entire flight.
The program will begin as a trial on select routes and will cost between $100 and $150 in addition to the cost of the airline ticket.