Bark and Ride Pet Taxi Service takes your pet anywhere they need to go

Humans aren’t the only ones who need a lift around town.

“I take pets anywhere they need to go whether it’s the vet, the groomer, daycare, kennels, or even the park,” said Owner of Bark and Ride Pet Taxi Service, Jackie Blachowski. “It’s a lot of fun.”

Blachowski, a former Town of Cheektowaga councilwoman, began operating Bark and Ride Pet Taxi Service in October of this year. Animals have always been very near and dear to her heart so when she was able to retire at 55-years-old, she decided to give owning a business that is designed strictly for animals, a try.

“I have two golden retrievers and I just kept thinking taxi service,” said Blachowski. “So I went online and I did some research. I asked vets if there is ever a need and they said absolutely.”

From there Blachowksi went on to purchase a Ford Transit Connect van to transport dogs, cats, and any other pets, to wherever their owners wanted them to go. The state of the art, climate controlled vehicle was specially designed by ATM Restyle and includes five cages to transport animals.

Blackowski frequently takes animals to veterinary appointments and waits with the animal until the vet is finished. She also brings pet medications back with her to give to the owner. This service is helpful and adds convenience for those who may be disabled or are just too busy to take the pet themselves.

“My cliental is mostly elderly people that don’t drive or that are disabled and that’s mostly what the clients have been. I’ve got a lot of interest from professionals too like business attorneys who want me to pick up the dog from day care,” said Blachowski.

She also takes ill pets to the vet to be euthanized when the owner just can’t handle the sadness. It is definitely an upsetting experience but it helps the clients out tremendously to know that this rare business exists.

The pricing of the pet taxi service depends on how far Blachowski has to drive them; one to 10 miles is $35 round trip and 11 to 20 miles is $40. Blachowski also reserves the right to change her pricing if the drive is later in the evening.

Taxi services are made my appointment only and Blachowski always offers a free consultation for her to meet with the owner and pet beforehand. For more information visit www.bark-and-ride.com or call Jackie Blachowski at 597-1481.