How to Find Pet-Friendly Hotels: A Traveler's Guide for Pet Owners
Traveling with your furry friend can be a delightful experience, but finding a hotel that welcomes pets can sometimes be challenging. If you plan a weekend trip, travel with your pet across the country or visit destinations abroad then it is important to book pet-friendly accommodations for stress-free travels.
This guide will help you discover the best strategies for finding pet-friendly hotels, along with tips to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your pet.
Why Choose Pet-Friendly Hotels?
Pet-friendly hotels don’t just allow pets—they cater to them. They go beyond just pet acceptance; hotels offer pet-friendly features such as pet beds, bowls, treats and even designated pet areas. A pet-friendly hotel solves both the issue of pet abandonment and provides peace of mind when you are away from home.behind or worrying about their well-being while you're away.
Step 1: Start with Online Research
The simplest method of finding pet-friendly hotels is by using online platforms that are built for pet travel. Online hotel bookers Booking.com, Expedia and Airbnb let customers search for pet-friendly accommodations through their filters.
Pro Tip: Specialized pet travel websites like BringFido.com and PetsWelcome.com should also be checked out. Pet-friendly options are the only thing these platforms deal with and they use reviews from pet owners.
Step 2: Read Reviews and Policies Carefully
Pet-friendly hotels vary in the level of pet accommodation they offer. Between two different hotels one could be best described as pet-friendly while the other could impose certain pet-related restrictions.
When reviewing hotels, pay attention to:
- Pet Fees: Hotels may charge pet owners money to keep their pets which could be either a daily rate or one-time cleaning fee.
- Weight or Breed Restrictions: Some hotels establish pet-related size and breed restrictions for their guests.
- Amenities: Look for features like pet beds, walking areas, or even pet-sitting services.
- Pet Rules: Certain hotels enforce pet restrictions to designated hotel areas and enforce crating pets when left unattended.
Pro Tip: Read reviews from other pet owners to get a clearer picture of what to expect.
Step 3: Call Ahead to Confirm
Even though a hotel claims to accept pets you should always call to confirm pet policy. Hotel pet policies sometimes change and pet-friendly rooms may not be available.
When you call, ask specific questions like:
- Are there additional pet fees?
- Are there any restrictions on pet size or breed?
- What amenities are provided for pets?
- Are there nearby parks or walking areas?
This ensures that there are no surprises when you arrive.
Step 4: Consider Your Pet’s Needs
The selection of the appropriate hotel depends not only on pet acceptance but also on your pet's individual needs and comfort level.
- If you have a high-energy dog, look for hotels near parks or walking trails.
- If your pet gets anxious in new environments, opt for quieter accommodations away from busy streets or loud events.
- Cats and other small pets will require hotel rooms with secure windows and minimal possible escape routes.
Pro Tip: Bring your pet’s familiar items such as their blanket, toys and food bowls to make them feel more comfortable in their surroundings.
Step 5: Be a Responsible Guest
It is necessary to follow the rules of pet-friendly hotels because this is the right way to ensure that every guest has a positive experience.
- Clean Up After Your Pet: Always carry waste bags and clean up after your dog in designated areas.
- Minimize Noise: Prevent your dog from barking or creating a disturbance since this could lead to complaints from other guests.
- Never Leave Pets Unattended: If you need to leave your pet in the room, ensure they are crated and won’t cause damage.
- Follow Leash Rules: Common areas in hotels require pets to be leashed.
Top Websites and Apps for Finding Pet-Friendly Hotels
Here are some tools to make your search easier:
- BringFido: Specializes in pet-friendly travel, offering hotels, activities, and restaurants.
- Airbnb: Filter for pet-friendly stays and read reviews from hosts who welcome pets.
- Vrbo: Great for finding pet-friendly vacation rentals.
- Expedia/Booking.com: Use the pet-friendly filter to find options quickly.
- PetsWelcome: Offers detailed information about pet policies for hotels across the U.S.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect pet-friendly hotel doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little research, careful planning, and the right tools, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry companion.
Start your search today and treat your pet to a memorable travel experience. Looking for more pet travel tips and accessories? Visit our essentials for travelling with pets to find everything you need for a smooth and fun journey.