by InTrieste
Dogs have been at the center of headlines across Italy in recent days, with stories ranging from new policies on air travel and adoption campaigns to the unveiling of a luxury airport hotel and a proposal for a controversial tax.
The most high-profile development came from ITA Airways, which this week allowed two large dogs to fly inside the cabin rather than in the hold — a first for Italy. The policy shift followed approval from Italy’s civil aviation authority after new transport ministry guidelines.
On the inaugural flight between Milan and Rome, a Labrador named Moka traveled in Business Class, reportedly sleeping throughout the journey, while Honey, a mixed-breed, flew in Economy and appeared unsettled only during landing. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini described the policy change as a “game changer for millions of passengers,” while ITA Airways president Sandro Pappalardo called it “a real cultural revolution” centered on inclusivity and care.
At the same time, Rome announced a new campaign aimed at boosting dog adoptions. In partnership with Centrale del Latte di Roma, the city will feature shelter dogs on more than three million milk cartons, complete with QR codes linking to information about kennels and adoption opportunities. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri said the initiative was designed to bring the message of animal welfare “directly into the homes of Romans.”
The capital has in recent years expanded programs to support shelter dogs, including parades that allow animals a day outside the kennels while encouraging potential adoptions.
Elsewhere in Rome, Fiumicino Airport has drawn attention for opening Dog Relais, a luxury boarding facility billed as the first of its kind in an Italian airport. The center offers air-conditioned lodges with indoor and outdoor areas, veterinary and grooming services, and even video call options so owners can check in on their pets while traveling.
But not all dog-related news was met with enthusiasm. In Bolzano, in the northern region of Trentino-Alto Adige, a proposal to introduce a “dog tax” has stirred controversy. The plan calls for a €1.50 daily fee for visiting dog owners and an annual €100 levy for residents, with revenues earmarked for new dog parks and street cleaning.
Luis Walcher, a regional councillor who introduced the measure, argued that the proposal was “fair” because it targeted owners rather than the broader community. Animal rights groups strongly opposed the plan, calling it “short-sighted” and “pure madness.”
Taken together, the stories illustrate the prominent — and sometimes divisive — role of dogs in Italian public life, from policy and infrastructure to cultural shifts and political debate.
