Traveling with your furry companion can be an incredibly rewarding experience. However, one of the biggest hurdles for pet owners is finding accommodations that welcome animals. Luckily, more and more hotels are opening their doors to pets, making travel easier and more enjoyable for everyone. But with so many options available, knowing How To Find Pet Friendly Hotels that truly meet your and your pet’s needs is essential. This guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your next trip is comfortable and stress-free for both you and your beloved pet.
Planning Ahead: Your First Step to Pet-Friendly Stays
The key to a successful pet-friendly hotel stay lies in careful planning. Don’t wait until the last minute to book your accommodation. Pet-friendly rooms are often limited, and popular hotels can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Starting your search early gives you a wider selection and more time to compare options.
Begin by determining your travel dates and destination. Once you have these details, you can start your search specifically for pet-friendly hotels in that area. Remember to be flexible with your dates if possible, as this might open up more options and potentially better rates.
Online Search Strategies for Pet-Friendly Hotels
The internet is your best friend when searching for pet-friendly hotels. Several websites and online travel agencies (OTAs) specialize in pet-friendly accommodations. Here are some effective strategies:
- Utilize Pet-Friendly Filters: Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and BringFido have dedicated filters to narrow your search to pet-friendly properties. Look for options like “pet-friendly,” “pets allowed,” or specific filters for dogs or cats.
- Search with Specific Keywords: When using search engines like Google, be specific in your queries. Try searches like “pet-friendly hotels in [city name],” “dog-friendly hotels near [landmark],” or “hotels that allow cats in [region].”
- Explore Hotel Chain Websites: Many major hotel chains, such as Marriott (various brands), Hilton (various brands), and Best Western, have pet-friendly policies at select locations. Visit their official websites and use their search tools to find pet-friendly hotels within their network. Look for dedicated pet travel pages or FAQs on their sites.
When browsing online listings, pay close attention to the details provided. Don’t just assume a hotel is pet-friendly based on a general statement.
Digging Deeper: Understanding Pet Policies
Finding a hotel that says it’s pet-friendly is only the first step. It’s crucial to understand the hotel’s specific pet policy to avoid any surprises or extra fees. Pet policies can vary significantly between hotels, even within the same chain. Here’s what to look for:
- Pet Fees: Most pet-friendly hotels charge a pet fee, which can be a nightly fee or a one-time fee per stay. These fees can vary widely, from a nominal amount to a significant surcharge. Factor these fees into your budget.
- Size and Breed Restrictions: Some hotels have restrictions on the size or weight of pets they allow. Others may have breed restrictions, often based on perceived aggression. Ensure your pet meets the hotel’s size and breed requirements.
- Number of Pets Allowed: Hotels may limit the number of pets allowed per room. If you are traveling with multiple pets, confirm the hotel’s policy on the number of animals.
- Allowed Pet Types: While “pet-friendly” often implies dogs and cats, some hotels may also welcome other types of pets. If you have a less common pet, such as a bird or reptile, always check directly with the hotel.
- Areas Pets Are Allowed: Clarify where pets are allowed on the property. Are they restricted to guest rooms only, or are they allowed in designated outdoor areas, lobbies, or even patios? Knowing these limitations will help you plan your pet’s exercise and bathroom breaks.
- Required Vaccinations and Paperwork: Some hotels may require proof of vaccinations or other paperwork for your pet. Be prepared to provide this information upon request.
This thorough understanding of the pet policy is a critical part of knowing how to find pet friendly hotels that are genuinely suitable for your needs.
Direct Contact: The Power of a Phone Call
While online research is invaluable, don’t underestimate the power of a direct phone call to the hotel. Speaking directly to a hotel representative can provide clarity and reassurance.
- Confirm Pet-Friendliness: Even if a hotel is listed as pet-friendly online, it’s always wise to call and double-confirm their pet policy directly. Ask specific questions about fees, restrictions, and allowed areas.
- Ask About Pet Amenities: Inquire about any pet-specific amenities the hotel offers, such as dog beds, bowls, treats, or designated dog-walking areas. Some hotels go above and beyond to cater to pet owners.
- Address Specific Concerns: If you have any specific concerns or needs related to your pet, such as mobility issues or special dietary requirements, a phone call allows you to discuss these directly with the hotel staff and assess their ability to accommodate you.
- Gauge Pet-Friendliness Attitude: The way a hotel representative responds to your questions about pets can often give you a sense of how genuinely pet-friendly the hotel is. A welcoming and helpful response is a good sign.
Beyond Hotels: Exploring Alternative Pet-Friendly Accommodations
While hotels are a common choice, consider exploring alternative pet-friendly accommodations for a different experience:
- Vacation Rentals: Websites like Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide range of pet-friendly vacation rentals, including houses, apartments, and cabins. These can provide more space and privacy for you and your pet, often with amenities like yards or pet-friendly outdoor areas.
- Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs): Some B&Bs are incredibly welcoming to pets and offer a more personalized and home-like atmosphere. Look for B&Bs that specifically advertise themselves as pet-friendly.
- Camping and RV Parks: If you and your pet enjoy the outdoors, consider pet-friendly campgrounds or RV parks. Many offer designated pet areas and are a great option for adventurous travelers.
Making the Booking and Preparing for Your Stay
Once you’ve found the perfect pet-friendly hotel, it’s time to book your stay. When making your reservation, explicitly mention that you are bringing a pet and confirm all the details of the pet policy with the hotel again.
Before your trip, prepare a pet travel kit containing essentials like food, water, bowls, leash, waste bags, medications, and any comfort items your pet may need. Pack copies of vaccination records and any other required paperwork.
Knowing how to find pet friendly hotels involves thorough research, clear communication, and careful planning. By following these steps, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience for both you and your furry friend, creating lasting memories together.
