Photo: Ansa
Out of the 33 million Italians currently enjoying their August break, 9 million are taking their pets along for the holiday.
The Italian Defense for Animals and the Environment estimates that there are currently 8 million dogs and 1 million cats being included in the family vacation. Thousands of rabbits, hamsters and birds are also along for the relaxing summer trip.
Having a pet along might be comforting, but it also leads to shorter holidays. The average length of a trip with the family pet was 7-8 days, down from the pet-free average of 11 days.
It will also cost more to include your pup on your summer getaway. Families paid an average of 140 euro extra per week for their pets.
Italy’s beaches still reigned supreme as the vacation destination of choice. 70% of pet owners take their four-legged friends to the sea, while 16% head for the mountains.
