PetCloud launches new pet taxi service in Adelaide

Pet owners without cars may soon find it much easier to get around despite being cut out of other transport services.

Erin Williams, who has Asperger's has become the first pet taxi driver in the state. Picture: Keryn Stevens

Animals across Adelaide can now catch a solo ride to their vet, a grooming appointments or even the beach with a new taxi service just for pets.

Australian business PetCloud has launched the service with an Uber-style app, to allow pets to travel with their owners or unaccompanied.

Just like other ride share services, users download the app and book a pet taxi on demand or schedule a pick-up 72 hours in advance.

Pet owners can track their pet’s ride in real time through the app’s GPS system and get fare estimates before they book. A one-way trip is estimated to cost $40 on average.

Thebarton resident Erin Williams is the first pet minder in Adelaide to have signed on as a pet taxi driver.

Her service will be provided to residents (and pets) within a 20 minute radius of the CBD but she hopes other pet minders will join the service.

“I think the service will be great for a lot of people, including the elderly who may have to take their pets to get vaccinations but don’t drive or don’t have transport themselves,” Ms Williams said.

“A lot of elderly people may also be independent at home but could be legally blind, so are not allowed to drive.

“This way, their dogs can go to the beach, the vet or outings to socialise and be a lot happier and healthier.”

PetCloud CEO Deb Morrison and her toy cavoodle Milly. Picture: Tara Croser.

With pets in two-thirds of Australian households, PetCloud CEO Deb Morrison said it was about time they had their own taxi service.

“We believe this will be a service that will accelerate a lot of vet clinics and groomers, because basically it stops no shows and cancellations as pets are no longer dependant on pet owners being available to be picked up and dropped off,” she said.

Ms Morrison said pet owners could be assured of strict safety measures with all pets expected to be strapped in for their taxi ride

Pet Taxi App drivers are also required to undergo police checks, are insured and trained in animal handling, and have the backing of RSPCA Queensland - a part owner of PetCloud.

“Pet owners need to have their dogs in a dog body harness and a leash attached on pick-up and then for cat owners their cats need to be in a cat carrier on pick-up,” she said.

“All pet taxi drivers have a pet car tether, that basically attaches to the car’s seat belt, and then the pet car tether clips on to body harness or cat carrier and they are placed on to the back seat of the car.”