Staying Somewhere You Will Love

4 Tips That Will Make Your Hotel Stay With Your Pet Easier

Posted on: 21 May 2015

Finding pet-friendly hotels is a must if you need to travel with Fido or Fluffy. You probably know to expect extra room fees and pet deposits at hotels that allow pets, but you may not know the following strategies that will make your stay more pleasant.

Tip #1: Check Out the Local Environment

It's a good idea to make sure there are good places to walk your dog nearby – it's even better if there is a local dog park. If you're booking online, visit an online map service to check for low-traffic areas and nearby walking trails. You don't want to end up in a hotel near a busy highway with no good outdoor areas nearby.

It's also a good idea to call the hotel and check on local areas and regulations. For example, you want to make sure that the big park right next to the hotel allows dogs before you book. It's also a good idea to be well aware of all local leash laws before you travel.

Tip #2: Stay On the Bottom Floor

The bottom floor is the best option, whether you're traveling with a dog or cat. First, this is most convenient if you have a dog that will require frequent walks. Second, animals can be just as noisy as small children. Both cats and dogs run, and sometimes jump, which can result in a lot of jarring thumps if someone is in the room below you.

Tip #3: Tour the Room Before Signing

Some hotels may try to pass off a smoking room or a room that has been damaged as their "pet" room. Before committing to the room, give it a tour and make sure there are no foul odors and that the quality of the room is up to the same standards as the rest of the rooms in the hotel. If you're booking over the phone, ask the hotel if they have designated pet rooms, and how they differ from the regular rooms. Make sure that the pet rooms are also non-smoking if you aren't a smoker.

Tip #4: Handle Alone Time

Whether you can leave your pet alone in the room depends on the hotel rules. Cats are generally allowed to be left in a room alone, but dogs may not be allowed to stay unsupervised. This is because dogs are more prone to damaging a room or barking because of stress. If you can, and must, leave your dog, it is best if he is crate trained and can be left crated when you are away.

Make the room as much like home as possible before leaving your dog alone. Bring along a pet bed and some favorite toys from home, along with familiar food and water bowls. Make sure your dog is used to the room before leaving him. Generally, you will need to stay in the room overnight before a dog feels comfortable. Wear your dog out with a long walk before you leave, and then keep your time away short. If a noise complaint does come up, don't leave your dog alone again for the remainder of your stay.

Traveling with pets is sometimes a necessity. With a bit of planning you can make it comfortable for both your pet and the other guests in the hotel.

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