Pet-friendly hotels, Airbnbs, and vacation rentals are more common than ever, but still less widespread than you might expect. Despite the rising trend in Americans’ spending on pet-related travel, pet owners can still struggle to find accommodations that welcome or even tolerate their furry companions.
Unfortunately, many hotels and vacation rental operators have been slow to embrace pet-friendly policies, as pets can pose legitimate challenges to their business. For example, a guest with a severe dog allergy may risk an allergic reaction if they stay in a room previously occupied by a dog. Pets can also damage furniture or cause disturbances at night, creating issues for staff and other guests. It’s no surprise that many establishments either add pet surcharges or ban pets altogether.
As a traveling pet owner, one of the best things you can do is set a positive example of responsible pet ownership at any pet-friendly accommodation you visit. By being a model guest, you can help encourage more properties to open their doors to pets in the future.
To ensure that pet-friendly rentals remain accessible, follow these courtesies during your next stay:
1) Notify the Host in Advance
No matter how “pet-friendly” a rental may be, it’s always courteous to inform the host about your pet when booking. Many properties have specific protocols for accommodating pets, and letting the host know in advance allows them to properly prepare for your arrival.
2) Respect Pet Policies
"Pet-friendly" can mean different things at different places. Most pet-friendly properties still have policies restricting the size, breed, species, or areas where pets are allowed. These rules exist to protect both the property and other guests, so make sure to follow them closely to maintain your privileges and leave a good impression.
3) Bring Your Pet’s Essentials
Don’t embark on your trip until you’re certain you have everything your pet needs. Pack a travel kit for your pet that includes food, water bowls, their favorite toys, and bedding or custom dog beds. Having all these items on hand should help your dog stay comfortable during your holiday and reduce the wear and tear on the property’s amenities.
4) Exercise Common Sense Safety Practices at All Times
Never leave your pet unattended, especially if they are anxious or prone to destructive behavior. If you must leave the rental, consider crating your pet or bringing them along. Even if your pet doesn’t wear a collar at home, ensure they are always wearing a collar with identification tags, as well as a leash or harness whenever they are outside the rental property.
5) Keep Your Pet Clean
Bathe your pet right before your stay to minimize shedding and odors. Be sure to take a pack of pet-safe wet wipes with you to wipe their paws after walks so that you can keep them from tracking dirt into the rental.
6) Clean Up After Your Pet
Always pick up after your pet, whether they do their business indoors or outside. Carry enough waste bags and be sure you can dispose of them properly. Doing this meticulously is going to help encourage the rental operator to keep their place pet-friendly—probably more than anything else on this list.
7) Minimize Noise
If your dog is prone to loud barking, it’s best to address this issue before taking them on trips where they may disturb others. If you must bring them along, pack their favorite toys and calming aids to keep them occupied. Your vet may also recommend therapeutic approaches or anxiety medication to help manage your dog’s barking during the trip.
8) Protect Your Host’s Furniture
Take the extra step of covering furniture with pet blankets or towels to prevent stains and scratches. Consider bringing bitter apple spray or similar repellents to apply on furniture legs and electrical cables, helping to deter your pet from chewing on them.
9) Respect Outdoor Spaces
As a guest, your responsibility doesn’t end at the rental. Rather, it also extends into the environment and community that the rental is a part of. This means that you shouldn’t be allowing your pet to dig in neighboring gardens or disturb wildlife. Keep your pet on a leash or harness in communal areas, and be mindful of the other guests and surrounding community’s comfort.
Guard Your Pet's Privilege
Every time you check into a pet-friendly establishment, you’re not just a guest but also a representative for other pet owners. While incidents with pets can occur, it’s important to do your part to minimize any damage and ensure a smooth stay. By following these tips, you can help set a positive example and contribute to maintaining a welcoming environment for pet owners for years to come.
