Queen Mary 2 Offers Dedicated Kennels for Transatlantic Voyages

Cunard's Queen Mary 2 ocean liner has been making transatlantic crossings between Southampton and New York since 2004, offering a unique experience for passengers. However, one aspect that sets it apart from other cruise ships is its dedicated kennels at sea during these voyages.

The ship's kennel master, Oliver Cruz, has an unusual job on board the Queen Mary 2. With over eight years of experience in handling animals, including snakes and crocodiles, Cruz was initially hired as a spa attendant but later moved to the kennels due to his background.

As the only cruise ship offering dedicated kennels for dogs and cats during transatlantic voyages, the Queen Mary 2 caters to pet owners who want to travel with their pets. The ship has 24 spaces available for animals traveling with their owners.

Oliver Cruz's passion for animals is evident in his work on board the Queen Mary 2. He joined the ship in 2011 and has been caring for the dogs and cats ever since, bringing a wealth of experience to his role as kennel master.

Caring for 24 cats and dogs on board Queen Mary 2 is a challenging task that requires attention to detail and a deep understanding of each animal's unique needs.

Some animals are more demanding than others, with Cruz recalling one Bernese mountain dog that required three pounds of minced meat per meal, accompanied by over 10 ingredients. This level of care is not unusual for the kennel master, who has cared for some dogs on as many as 32 crossings.

The kennels themselves have a system in place to accommodate the diverse needs of the animals, with each dog assigned to one of several "houses" within the facility. Cruz has developed a keen sense of which animals prefer which houses and can recall specific details about their past stays.

Life as a kennel master comes with its own set of hazards, including over 50 reported dog bites that have left their mark on Cruz's body.

The daily routine at sea for those responsible for caring for the onboard animals is demanding and intricate.

Once the canine guests arrive on board, they're taken to the kennels where their owners are briefed on visiting hours and rules. The space includes an outdoor area affectionately known as the poop deck, equipped with distinct amenities tailored to the dogs' origins - a fire hydrant for American breeds and a lamppost for British ones.

To ensure a smooth transition into their holiday routine, the kennel masters allow the dogs to experience both environments. This thoughtful approach helps them settle in quickly.

In addition to providing separate accommodations, owners are also encouraged to leave behind personal items such as toys, blankets, or even worn socks that smell like home, making the dogs feel more at ease in their temporary surroundings.

One of the challenges faced by the pet care staff is helping dogs adjust to new surroundings amidst other canines.

Dogs often struggle to adapt to the presence of so many other animals, which can be overwhelming for them.

In addition to dealing with this adjustment period, staff members must also contend with owners who may not follow rules regarding treats and feeding times.

Some owners have been known to sneak their pets snacks from the kitchen, despite being told that treats are not allowed.

As a crew member on a luxury cruise ship, one might expect to have a lot of free time on their hands. However, that's not always the case for kennel staff like myself. When I'm not working with the animals, you can find me jamming out in the crew bar with my bandmates.

We play a diverse range of music, but our setlist often features popular rock bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers. In fact, we've even had the chance to perform alongside some well-known musicians - I recall playing drums with Travis Barker on Queen Mary 2 during a filming session. It was an incredible experience that I'll never forget.

When I'm not making music or working in the kennels, I enjoy exploring new destinations and immersing myself in local culture. One place that holds a special spot in my heart is Liverpool - as a big Beatles fan, I love visiting iconic sites like Mendips, Strawberry Field, and Quarry Bank School.

As a pet sitter on board a cruise ship, Paisley's owner has formed close bonds with her furry companions. She recalls one instance where she was sitting on the lap of a pet sitter, and it marked the beginning of a strong relationship.

The pet sitter shares her top tip for first-time cruisers traveling with pets: to remain calm and composed, as this will reflect positively on their animals. If they feel nervous or anxious, their pets are likely to sense it too. For felines, patience is key - allowing them time to adjust to new surroundings before seeking attention.

When the cat begins to initiate interactions and asks for attention, that's a clear sign of trust established. With this in mind, pet owners can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both themselves and their pets on board.