Pet Friendly Hotels

dog in hotel lobby

When traveling with pets, it’s important to choose accommodations that are welcoming and comfortable for both you and your furry friend. Here’s a guide to help you find and select pet-friendly hotels:

1. Research Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains

  • Kimpton Hotels: Known for being one of the most pet-friendly chains, Kimpton welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes with no additional fees.
  • La Quinta by Wyndham: Many locations are pet-friendly, and some don’t charge extra fees.
  • Aloft Hotels: Pet-friendly and often offer pet perks like beds, bowls, and treats.
  • Best Western: Over 1,600 Best Western hotels in North America are pet-friendly, usually with a nominal fee.
  • Motel 6: All Motel 6 locations are pet-friendly and do not charge a pet fee.
  • Red Roof Inn: Many locations are pet-friendly and offer free stays for pets.

2. Use Pet-Specific Booking Sites

  • BringFido: This site specializes in finding pet-friendly hotels, vacation rentals, and attractions.
  • PetsWelcome: Provides a comprehensive list of pet-friendly hotels across the U.S.
  • Expedia, Booking.com, or Airbnb: Filter your search results to show only pet-friendly options.

3. Understand Hotel Policies

  • Pet Fees: Some hotels charge a nightly pet fee, while others have a flat rate or even no fee at all. Be sure to confirm the cost.
  • Weight and Breed Restrictions: Some hotels have restrictions based on the size or breed of the pet. Always check the hotel’s policy beforehand.
  • Number of Pets Allowed: Hotels often have a limit on how many pets you can bring. This is usually one or two pets per room.
  • Pet Amenities: Look for hotels that offer pet amenities like beds, bowls, treats, or even pet-sitting services.

4. Check the Location

  • Nearby Parks or Pet Areas: Check if there are parks, walking trails, or designated pet areas nearby for exercise.
  • Pet Relief Areas: Ensure the hotel has designated pet relief areas for your pet to use.

5. Ask About Room Assignments

  • Ground Floor Rooms: Request a ground floor room for easier access to outside, especially for late-night potty breaks.
  • Quiet Rooms: Choose a room away from elevators, lobbies, and other high-traffic areas to minimize noise that might disturb your pet.

6. Prepare for Your Stay

  • Bring Pet Essentials: Don’t forget to pack your pet’s bed, food, water, bowls, toys, and any medications.
  • Respect Hotel Rules: Keep your pet on a leash in public areas, clean up after them, and never leave them unattended in the room for long periods.
  • Consider Crating: Some hotels require that pets be crated if left alone in the room. Bringing a familiar crate can also help your pet feel more secure.

7. Review Pet Policies Before Booking

  • Call Ahead: Even if the hotel is listed as pet-friendly, it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm their pet policy.
  • Read Reviews: Look at online reviews from other pet owners to get a sense of the hotel’s true pet-friendliness.

8. Stay Pet-Conscious During Your Stay

  • Quiet Time: Make sure your pet doesn’t disturb other guests by barking or making noise.
  • Clean Up: Always clean up after your pet, both in the hotel and outside in designated relief areas.

By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay for both you and your pet. Safe travels!