What’s better than discovering new places and staying in a lovely hotel? Bringing your pet with you and letting them discover the world with you, of course.
Pet travel has become more accessible than ever. Aside from pet-friendly cafes and attractions, you can also find a wide range of pet-friendly hotels that welcome them with open arms. Just keep in mind that not all hotels advertised as “pet-friendly” are created equal in terms of location, amenities, and policies.
Planning to travel with your pet (or should we say, “child”)? In this article, we’ll share a few tips and tricks when booking a pet-friendly hotel and how you can make the most out of your stay.
1. Are they pet-friendly or just pet-tolerant?
Many hotels these days claim to be “pet-friendly”. But as soon as you go over their long list of regulations and restrictions, you realise that they merely “allow pets” and that’s it. Before booking a hotel, call and ask about their pet policy:
- Do pets have to stay in designated areas?
- Are pets prohibited to be left alone in the room?
- Do you have to pay fees for the hotel to accommodate your pet?
- Are there “special rooms” for pet owners and do these come with a higher rate?
- Do they have breed and weight restrictions?
If the answer to all of the above is “yes”, that means your hotel is just pet-tolerant and not genuinely pet-friendly. This serviced apartment in Dublin Leeson, for instance, allows pets and can recommend a couple of local groomers and shops nearby. However, additional costs and a pet policy apply.
2. Ask about their pet policies and restrictions
Does the hotel have breed and weight restrictions? Are there limits as to how many pets you can bring? What are the particular animals they allow? Are there pet-friendly and pet-free areas? Can your pet swim in the pool?
Pet policies vary. Some hotels allow dogs and cats but restrict other animals. Others have size and breed restrictions, and would only cater to small pets. It’s such a bummer if the hotel presents itself as “pet-friendly” only to turn down your big and fluffy golden retriever or your pet rabbit.
Before making a reservation, ask about their pet policies to know what your pet is entitled to.
3. Look for hotels with pet-friendly amenities and services
A real pet-friendly hotel caters to your furbaby with no hidden costs and super strict regulations that outweigh the benefits. They also have a few pet-friendly amenities and services that translate to a fantastic and stress-free holiday experience for animals and humans alike.
These include the following:
- Your pets are allowed in the lobby, patio, pool area, and other public spaces
- Pets can be left alone in the room as long as they’re in a crate
- The hotel has pet sitters for hire
- They have pet services like treats and grooming
4. Check the hotel’s proximity to pet-friendly establishments
While you can find hotels that allow your pet to stay in the room (as long as they’re in a crate), sometimes you just can’t bear leaving your furry companion behind when you go out. To ensure you and your pet have fun together, check if the attractions you’re planning to visit cater to pets. Check if your means of transportation also allow them on board.
The good news is the number of pet-friendly establishments has risen significantly over the past few years. These include pet-friendly cafes, pubs, and restaurants, museums, and amusement parks.
5. Be mindful of the hotel’s location
Where the hotel is located can tell whether it’s a pet-friendly property. If you love taking a stroll with your pet, you wouldn’t want to avoid a hotel situated along a highway or on busy streets. Instead, find a hotel located in a safe area that has plenty of greenery.
Before booking a hotel, check with Google Maps to see if their surrounding areas are safe and convenient for pets and pet owners alike. See if the hotel has grounds that are suitable for walking. In addition, ask if there are nearby parks, gardens, or walking trails.
6. Be a responsible pet owner
So you’ve found a pet-friendly hotel that welcomes you and your furry buddy with open arms? Return the gratitude by becoming a responsible pet owner. While they may be allowed in public places, make sure they won’t cause any harm or disturbances to other hotel guests and staff.
Here are certain things to consider:
- Vaccinate your pet and bring their vaccination record
- Pack a pee pad or diaper.
- Bring items that will keep them secured like a leash, stroller, or carrier
- For pet cats, bring your own litter box
- Clean after your pet
- Make sure your pet is quiet and does not disturb the other guests
Author Bio: Carmina Natividad is a free-spirited writer who loves exploring the great outdoors. She loves traveling, eating, taking food and streetscape photographs, and simply enjoying new experiences and writing about them. To know more about hotels and travel blogs, you may visit PREMIER SUITES Dublin Leeson.
