Will you be packing a bag for your pet for this year’s family vacation? If so, the checklist for your perfect accommodations just added another box: is the hotel pet friendly?
While a hotel’s website may indicate who’s welcome, call and talk to someone directly before booking to know exactly how welcome your pet will be. Here are some questions you may want to ask when deciding if a hotel is right for every member of your family.
Photography: The McClouds
What types of animals are welcomed?
Some places may welcome only dogs, while others may roll out the welcome mat for far more members of the animal kingdom. Hotels may also have restrictions based on the size and age of an animal.
Will we be charged extra for our room?
You may be charged anything from a small fee to help cover cleaning costs to a refundable damage deposit to a nonrefundable deposit. TIP: If your pet is used to being allowed on the furniture at home, pack a sheet to cover the beds and chairs to keep the room a little cleaner – and less furry.
What rooms are available to pet-toting families?
You don’t want to be saddled with an older room with torn curtains and carpet peeling from the floor, or if you’re a non-smoker, a room that’s usually reserved for smokers. And think about asking for a room on the ground level. Much easier to get in and out for those early morning walks and late evening bathroom breaks.
Let me grab a catnap before seeing the sights (photography: Eugene0126jp).
What's the area around the hotel like?
While a selection of restaurants and a mini putt nearby are lovely, if you’ve brought along your dog, you’ll need somewhere to walk him. Is the hotel in the middle of a busy city street, or is it a little off the beaten path with a park and other green spaces just a few minutes away?
Does the hotel provide any pet amenities?
You can save baggage space if you don’t have to pack food and water bowls. But you may want to bring along some comforts from home. The transition to a new place – even a temporary one – may be easier (not to mention less stressful) on your pet if he has his own toys and blanket.
Can I leave my pet alone in the room?
This is a firm no at some places, even if your pet is crated, due to concerns over barking, scratching and other disruptions to fellow guests (and the worry of what may come of the room). At places where the answer is yes, be sure to leave your pet in his crate (for the safety of cleaners or other hotel staff who may enter). You may even want to hang the Do Not Disturb sign on the door.
Are there extra services available for pets?
At places where your pet must be supervised at all times, a pet-sitting service would allow the family to check out local attractions without one person always staying behind.
Is my pet permitted to roam the grounds?
Taking a dip in the pool is probably a no-no, but what about other common areas?
Do I need to bring my pet’s vet papers?
Some hotels may ask you to bring your pet’s paperwork and proof of shots, as well as his ID (collar, tag, etc.).
Do your family vacation plans include your pet?
