Pet-Friendly Hotels: What to Look for Before Booking Your Next Trip
Dear Pet Parents,
If you haven’t had the joy of traveling with your pawsome companion on holidays can I encourage you to do so.
Traveling with your beloved dog or cat is one of the greatest joys of pet ownership. You can forgo the tearful goodbyes at the kennel door as you leave your loved fur baby in the hands of strangers for the time you are away.
NB Please let me be the first one to say there are some great businesses doing some pawsome work out there looking after our pawsome fur babies while we are away
However, if we take the opportunity to take our loved furry companion with us on holidays, we get to share new adventures and create lasting memories together. Fortunately, the hospitality industry has responded to this demand, and the number of hotels proudly proclaiming to be pet-friendly accommodation is soaring.
However, a critical distinction must be made:
Not All Hotels That Allow Pets Are Truly Pet-Friendly.
Many are merely "pet-tolerant," offering little more than a space to sleep, often with a long list of fines and restrictions attached. Finding a place that actively contributes to your Pet Family Harmony requires careful research and knowing the right questions to ask before booking.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the non-negotiable checks, hidden costs, and essential amenities that separate a truly welcoming dog-friendly hotel from a stressful stay.
The Essential First Step: Decoding the Pet Policy
The first red flag to watch for is a vague policy hidden deep in the hotel's terms and conditions. A genuinely pet-friendly hotel will have clear, accessible information. Your job is to call ahead and confirm every detail, as online listings can often be outdated or misleading.
💰 Fees and Deposits: The Cost of Comfort
The financial aspect is often where travelers encounter the most unpleasant surprises. Never assume pet fees are standard; they vary wildly and can drastically increase the cost of your stay.
Type of Fee
What It Covers
What to Confirm
Non-Refundable Pet Fee
A mandatory charge for deep cleaning and sanitation after your stay.
Is this a one-time charge, or is it charged per night? Is it per pet, or per room?
Refundable Pet Deposit/Bond
A security deposit held by the hotel in case of property damage caused by your pet.
What is the amount, and what is the exact timeline for its return? What kind of damage will void the refund?
Hidden Cleaning Fees
Some hotels list a low base fee but tack on substantial cleaning costs if staff note any fur or mess.
Confirm the total, all-inclusive pet cost for the duration of your planned stay.
Pro Tip: Look for hotels that bundle amenities (like a bed and bowls) into the pet fee, as this often indicates they are committed to providing value, not just collecting an extra charge.
Restrictions: Size, Breed, and Number
This is the most common reason a pet is turned away, particularly large dogs. Do not rely on generic filters from third-party booking sites—call the hotel directly to confirm the specifics of their pet restrictions.
Weight and Size Limits: Many policies strictly limit pets to a maximum weight (e.g., 40 lbs or 25 kg). If your pet is close to the limit, ask if the policy is strictly enforced.
Breed Restrictions: Certain breeds (like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, or large working dogs) may be restricted due to insurance policies, even if they are well-behaved. Check their specific list of prohibited breeds.
Pet Count: Most hotels cap the number of pets at one or two per room. If you travel with multiple animals, secure advance permission in writing.
Other Animals: If you are travelling with a cat, bird, or non-traditional pet, confirm the policy. Many hotels only specify rules for dogs.
🚪 The "Unattended" Rule: Can You Leave Your Pet Alone?
This is perhaps the most critical policy detail that impacts your travel plans. Many dog-friendly hotels strictly prohibit leaving pets unattended in the room unless they are crated, and some prohibit it entirely.
Why it matters: If you plan on having dinner at a non-pet-friendly restaurant, attending a business meeting, or visiting a museum, you need to know your options.
What to ask: Can my pet be left alone? If so, must they be crated? Do you offer pet-sitting or dog-walking services for hire?
Hotels that require your pet to be crated or that ask for your cell phone number at the desk (so they can call you back to the room if the pet barks) are tolerable. Hotels that strictly forbid leaving them unattended can severely limit your activities.
Beyond the Room: Key Amenities for Your Pet's Comfort
A truly pet-friendly hotel goes beyond allowing your pet through the door—it actively makes space for their needs. These amenities are strong indicators of genuine hospitality.
🐕 On-Site Facilities for Exercise and Relief
A successful stay depends on easy access to outdoor space. A hotel that anticipates your pet’s need for exercise and bathroom breaks is a winner.
Dedicated Pet Relief Areas: Look for designated waste areas that are well-maintained and stocked with waste disposal bags (poop bags).
Pet Parks or Trails: Hotels with on-site dog runs, fenced yards, or dedicated walking trails demonstrate a high level of commitment to a pet’s well-being. This is particularly valuable for early morning or late-night toilet breaks.
Secure Fencing: If the hotel has a shared outdoor area, confirm it is safely and fully enclosed to prevent accidental escapes.
In-Room Comfort and Features
The room itself should be optimized for a pet's comfort and your peace of mind.
Ground Floor Access: This is essential, especially for large, senior, or anxious dogs. Ground-floor rooms offer quick, easy access for necessary potty breaks without the stress of stairs or waiting for lifts.
Pet-Safe Flooring: Hardwood, laminate, or tile floors are vastly superior to carpet. They are easier to clean in case of accidents and don't trap hair or allergens, making the room cleaner for everyone. Always ask about the flooring type.
Provided Amenities: Truly welcoming hotels often include a dog bed, food and water bowls, and a welcome treat at check-in. These small touches show the hotel views your pet as a valued guest, not just a liability.
Assessing the Location: Harmony Outside the Hotel
Even the best hotel room won't suffice if the location makes it impossible to exercise or entertain your pet. Use tools like Google Street View before you book to scout the surroundings.
Proximity to Parks, Trails, and Beaches
A happy pet is a tired pet. Look for hotels that are:
Near Off-Leash Areas: Easy walking access to a dog park or a designated dog-friendly beach or walking trail.
Away from Busy Roads: A quieter location away from noisy highways or heavy foot traffic can significantly reduce stress for an anxious or reactive dog.
Safe Walking Zones: Ensure there are safe sidewalks or grassy areas immediately outside the hotel for daily walks.
Pet-Friendly Dining and Attractions
A large part of the travel experience is dining out. Research the nearby area for places where your pet can join you.
Cafes and Restaurants: Search for nearby pet-friendly restaurants or outdoor patios that welcome dogs. This allows you to fully enjoy your destination without being confined to room service.
Local Activities: Look up local markets, vineyards, or sightseeing spots that permit pets. A hotel concierge who can point you toward pet-friendly activities is a massive asset.
Emergency Preparedness
Peace of mind is priceless. While you hope for the best, preparation is key.
Veterinary Access: Locate the nearest 24-hour veterinary hospital or animal clinic to the hotel. Knowing the route and contact information for a local vet is essential for handling unexpected emergencies.
The Trust Factor: Checking the Reviews and Fine Print
The best way to filter out a "pet-tolerant" hotel is by relying on the experiences of other pet owners.
Read Pet-Specific Reviews
When looking at online reviews, filter them specifically for keywords like "dog," "pet," "fee," or "policy."
Look for Praise: Are other pet owners mentioning the welcome treats, the dedicated park, or the helpful staff?
Watch for Complaints: Are reviewers complaining about excessive hidden fees, being placed next to noisy areas, or encountering rude staff regarding their pet?
Contact the Hotel Directly
Third-party booking platforms are great for filters, but always confirm the details by calling the hotel front desk. Policies can change frequently, and you want to speak to the staff who will actually be checking you in.
Ask for the Pet Package: Inquire if they offer any specific pet packages or amenities. A hotel that enthusiastically describes their pet offerings is far more genuinely dog-friendly than one that vaguely confirms, "Yes, pets are allowed."
Confirm Breed/Weight Rules: This step prevents a heartbreaking refusal at check-in.
Preparation is Pawsome: Packing and Arrival Tips
Once your perfect pet-friendly accommodation is booked, ensure a smooth arrival by preparing your pet and packing smartly.
Pack Familiar Essentials
To maintain harmony and reduce your pet’s stress in an unfamiliar environment, bring comforting items from home:
Bedding: A favourite blanket or bed with a familiar scent helps your dog settle faster.
Food and Bowls: Stick to your pet's regular food and bring their home bowls (though the hotel may provide extras).
Toys and Chews: Plenty of high-value chews or favorite toys to keep them occupied and reduce anxiety if they must be left alone.
Maintain Routine
Try to keep feeding and walking times as close to your home schedule as possible. Routine provides structure and stability, which are vital for a pet adjusting to new surroundings. Ensure your dog is well-exercised before arrival and on the morning of checkout to minimize anxiety-related behaviours (like barking or chewing).
By thoroughly researching the policies, amenities, and location, you can move past the risk of merely being "pet-tolerant" and guarantee a truly welcoming, memorable, and harmonious stay for your entire family. The effort you put into booking the right pet-friendly hotel will pay off with a stress-free trip where every member of your family can relax and enjoy the vacation.
Hopefully, this blog has provided some useful insights into what to look for from a motel that claims to be pet friendly. If you have any further questions don’t forget your local veterinarian is only too willing to answer questions and there are plenty of facebook groups with people willing to share their experiences. If you’re ready to plan your next adventure don’t forget to explore our selection of durable, travel-friendly accessories—like leak-proof water bottles and secure carriers—designed to make your journey to the perfect pet-friendly destination easier than ever!
