Choosing a pet friendly hotel can be confusing. It’s important to get some questions answered before you book your stay. It will put your mind at ease and make certain your pet is comfortable as well! So we’ve put together some must-ask questions for the pet-friendly hotels on your list.
If the hotel is pet friendly, they should say it on their website. They should also provide details about any breed restrictions or size restrictions on their website. If you don’t see the information you are looking for, it’s time to pick up the phone. The last thing you want is to book a room for you and your pet only to find that your specific pet is not welcome. If you are on a budget, you certainly do not want to be hit with an extra charge for your pet that you were not aware of. Talk about a budget buster!
1. Do they require health certificates or copies of vaccines?
As much as that can sound like a pain to get before a trip, it’s a safety measure that has all the guests in mind. What if you are nipped by a stranger’s dog who is staying there? Don’t you want to know that the dog is healthy, had a rabies shot recently, and is ok?
2. What are the rules for leaving a pet or a dog alone in the room?
Some hotels will say you can’t leave the dog alone and others will require that you bring your own crate. Some hotels may even have a boarding and daycare facility associated with them so you can bring your pup there while you check out the sights.
3. On pet friendly hotel grounds, where are you allowed to walk your pet?
Late-night potty breaks mean that it would be good to know where on the hotel property your pet can go and if there are bags to clean up afterward available.
4. Are there pet supplies available, such as dog bowls?
Some hotels have little pet packages of treats, a bed, and bowls. Others are more barebones and only offer a few treats.
5. Do they have a list or resource guide to the nearest dog parks, vets, pet friendly restaurants in the area?
6. Are there off-leash and on-leash areas in the pet friendly hotel?
Some dogs are not as happy to meet other dogs as yours might be and may show aggression when being approached. Ask the hotel what their rule is about entrances, exits, and public areas like the lobby.
7. Are there any restrictions based on size and breed?
While your dog might be ok and allowed, your best friend’s Dalmatian pit-bull mix might not be and that could toss a monkey wrench into your BFF vacation.
8. What’s the maximum number of pets per room (or guests allowed) and what are the fees?
The last thing you want to experience is being unable to check-in to the hotel because you have two dogs and the pet friendly hotel you have chosen accepts one. Ask before you go.
9. Do they offer any extra services?
Some pet friendly hotels offer dog-walking, dog-sitting, and other amenities for pets who are guests. It’s always good to check and gives you some flexibility in planning what you can do, and how long you can go out without worrying about your buddy.
Take it from us, getting all of the information you need BEFORE you travel will alleviate a lot of stress. It will also arm you with the knowledge you need to keep your pets happy, healthy, and safe on your next trip!
Happy Travels!
Want to take your dog boating? Check out these tips for a pet-safe boat trip!
