So, you don't have a car, your beloved pet really needs an outing - not just a walk around the condo. What to do?
Most readers may think this is an easy solutions. Well, if you are not a pet owner, believe us, it's a nightmare. You call a taxi - secure the booking only to find the driver has cancelled on you because they refuse to transport your pet to the park for some serious exercise.
Well, now there is an answer. Back in end-2017, the burden was slightly eased for a period of time, thanks to the introduction of UberPet. But then Ubergate happened and Uber Southeast Asia dissolved, leaving pet owners scrambling once more to find a safe, efficient way to travel with their pets.
A solution has arrived. Grab has announced a new on-demand, pet-friendly transportation service called GrabPet. Still in its Beta phase, the service allows riders to book a ride specifically with trained driver-partners, who will be able to assist in safe transportation and pet handling. No more fussing with advance bookings or reservations; you can book a ride on the Grab app spontaneously any time you need, just as how you would a regular Grab. But the same applies to humans - only if there is a car available in the area - which could prove problematic if you really on spontaneity.
Each GrabPet vehicle comes with built-in perks. The cars are equipped with foldable backseat covers hiding adjustable leashes for suitable pets, as well as microfibre towels and air freshener so everyone, including us humans get to enjoy a comfortable ride. On top of that, Grab is providing additional insurance for all pets, passengers and driver-partners on GrabPet rides, making them the first pet transportation service on the island to offer insurance coverage for pets onboard. This certainly is a first.
Of course, there are some limitations to the service. Birds are not allowed on GrabPet, pets must be leashed or in a crate (applicable to cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and the like) at all times. And a maximum of two medium-sized pets (up to 41cm in length) or one large pet (41cm in length or more) is allowed onboard at any one time.
Fares start from $14 a ride; though we all know safety for your furry friend is priceless and a blessing in disguise, more drivers are being trained to operate GrabPet vehicles as we speak.
