If you’ve felt like the travel industry is finally starting to “get it” when it comes to our furry friends, you aren’t imagining things. A massive shift is happening right now, and it has a name: the Pawprint Economy.
Beyond Pet-Friendly: The shift toward genuine care
We’ve spent years navigating the often-frustrating world of European pet travel—dealing with confusing airline rules and hoping the cargo hold temperature is actually being monitored. But according to the latest 2026 industry insights from Amadeus, we are moving into an era where pets are no longer treated as “complicated luggage,” but as VIP passengers.
Here is the breakdown of what is actually changing for us on the ground (and in the air) this year.
Digital Passports: The end of the “Check-in desk anxiety”?
One of the biggest news stories for 2026 is the rollout of integrated digital health validation. Major European carriers are finally syncing their apps with veterinary databases.
The goal? You upload your rabies certificates and passport/AHC details before you leave for the airport. That means that you could easily check-in online and get a digital “Pet Boarding Pass”.
We don’t expect this change to be a reality for everyone across the world just yet, but it is a positive sign and a massive step forward.
Loyalty programs for pets
The chance in the air is clear even when it comes to bigger hotel chains and some boutique airlines which are starting to offer points for every pet fee you pay. So it is possible that “Pet Loyalty” will become a real thing sooner rather than later.
Whether it’s earning a free pet stay after five trips or getting priority boarding because your dog is a “frequent flyer,” the industry is finally recognizing that pet owners are some of the most loyal customers in travel.
Tech in the Hold: Real-time peace of mind
For those of us with larger dogs who have to fly in the hold, the anxiety is real. The “Pawprint Economy” has pushed airlines to invest heavily in AI-driven sensor arrays.
We aren’t just talking about a basic thermometer anymore. New systems monitor everything from CO2 levels to vibrations. Some airlines such as Lufthansa (Pet Premium Service) or Air France – KLM (myCargo & PLUS Service) are now testing live data feeds that send “Comfort Updates” directly to you. Knowing that your dog is napping comfortably changes the entire experience of flying for both of you.
Hotels are finally stepping up
The “pet-friendly” label used to just mean “we have a dusty bowl in the closet.” Not anymore. In 2026, we’re seeing hotels offer:
- 24/7 Telemedicine (A vet in your pocket): Instant video calls with vets if your dog gets an upset stomach or starts acting strange.
- Smart room alerts: Apps that notify you if your dog is barking or restless while you’re out at dinner.
- Curated menus: High-quality, fresh meals that actually look like real food. You can find dog menus also on board of some airlines such as Vueling – read more here.
— Pet-friendly hotels in Barcelona — 🐾
The Pawprint Economy summary
The “Pawprint Economy” isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a demand for better standards. As people who live and breathe pet travel, it’s refreshing to see the industry finally catch up to the fact that our pets deserve a safe, comfortable journey.