The terminal features "departure lounges" where horses and livestock can rest while their travel documents are being processed.

Terminal 'sets new standards for veterinary services'

A magnificent 24/7 terminal for pets, birds, livestock and exotic animals has opened at John F. Kennedy airport in New York.

Described as a ‘luxury, airside hotel for creatures great and small,’ The ARK at JFK is the world’s first privately owned animal airport terminal.

Surrounded by 14 acres of land, the terminal features equine and aviary quarantine and export facilities, a veterinary hospital, boarding facilities, and spa and grooming services.

Available to all airlines, pet shippers and owners, the terminal also includes large animal handling systems and “departure lounges” where horses and livestock can rest while their travel documents are being processed.

“We developed The ARK concept to address the unmet needs for the import and export of companion, sporting and agricultural animals,” says John J. Cuticelli, Jr. CEO, Racebrook and founder and chairman of The ARK.

“Transporting live cargo by plane can be a complex and stressful process for owners and animals alike. Our goal is to create a more efficient and safe process by reducing the need for additional travel and offering trained animal care staff immediately pre-and post-flight.

“The ARK provides a healthy and comfortable environment and sets new international airport standards for comprehensive veterinary, kennelling and quarantine services.” 

Image (C) The ARK at JFK.