Next level pet pampering comes to Chicago

A new posh program at a Chicago hotel and an airline dedicated to dogs is raising the bar on pet pampering.

Why it matters: Pets are members of the family and many owners don't want to leave them at a boarder or with a friend when they travel because it can be expensive and inconvenient.

Driving the news: TheWit Hotel launches its Pampered Pooch program this Friday, along with a "yappy hour" during which young and old dogs from Anti-Cruelty will be available for adoption.

How it works: Guests staying with their pet pay a nonrefundable $150 deposit and 10% of each deposit will benefit Anti-Cruelty.

• The guests will be greeted with a pet concierge who will provide a list of pet-friendly events and places in the city.
• There are also custom doggie bowls and mats to bring home.

What they're saying: "78% of American pet owners travel with their animals each year, and more than half make travel plans specifically around the availability of pet accommodations," theWit's general manager Morgan Eagles said in a release.

Zoom out: Bark Air , a "dogs first" airline, just announced Midway airport is one of its new routes .

• Bark uses music and colors dogs prefer to help calm them, and has treats and surprises on the flight.
• Each flight is $6,000.

What's next: The adoption " yappy hour" takes place from 5-7pm Friday at theWit's rooftop.

• Guests are asked to not bring their pets to the "yappy hour" to keep the animals up for adoption safe.