Whether you’re a frequent traveler or looking forward to a particular excursion, many pet parents find it difficult to leave their four-legged companion behind. Fortunately, 75% of hotels now allow pets, with some even offering special amenities for your furry friend! While the increasing number of options is great, we’re interested in finding the best options out there. So let’s take a look at some ideal hotels for varying budgets…
Best Economy Options
Red Roof - At Red Roof, pets are always welcome! Most allow one dog or cat to stay free per guestroom, and each location’s management may allow additional pets to stay with no extra charge. At Red Roof Inn and Red Roof PLUS+, pets can weigh up to 80 pounds, while The Red Collection sets a 40-pound limit.
Motel 6 - When traveling with pets, Motel 6 is a great affordable option. Every location is pet-friendly, with no additional fees and room for up to two pets with a combined weight limit of 150 pounds.
Getting Fancy
Four Seasons - Most Four Seasons properties offer accommodations for dogs under 30 pounds at no extra charge. For example, in-room amenities including pet treats, bowls filled with Evian water, and a luxurious pet bed are all perks Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills provides. The Four Seasons Chicago also provides these amenities completely free of charge. Multiple properties even offer a special dining menu for dogs! Grooming and walking services are also available through the concierge for an additional charge, ensuring your furry companion enjoys the stay just as much as you do.
Ritz - Many Ritz-Carlton properties roll out the red carpet for dogs, though size requirements, fees, and amenities can vary by location. For example, the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel features a dog-friendly menu to its canine guests, with a $50 per night boarding fee. While pets are welcome, they must remain leashed or carried in all common areas of the resort. Over at the Ritz-Carlton in Washington D.C., pups are treated to plush dog beds, bowls, and all-natural treats with a $125 non-refundable dog cleaning fee per stay, in addition to the $50 nightly dog boarding fee. To join in on the travel fun, dogs must weigh 40 pounds or less!
The Peninsula - A number of Peninsula properties allow travelers to bring their dogs, making it easy to bring your furry companions along for the journey. Depending on the location, guests may bring up to two pets for a fee ranging from $35 to $75 per pet. Additionally, some hotels will provide food, water bowls, and a dog bed to make pets feel right at home. Each property has its own policies, so always check with the individual hotel first when you book!
Extended Stays
AirBnB - As they are operated privately, AirBnBs will each have their own rules. When you're hunting for a pet-friendly place to stay, take a look at the House Rules section of the listing to see the pet policy. Even if it says pets are welcome, it’s always a good idea to message the host first and let them know about your travel buddy to double-check for any rules or restrictions!
VRBO - Like the name indicates, Vacation Rentals By Owner each come with their own property rules and regulations. Luckily, you can use the handy “Pets Allowed” filter to sniff out spots that welcome furry guests. Just be sure to peek at the property’s specific pet guidelines before booking so you know exactly what to expect.
Other Considerations
While choosing lodging is paramount, the question arises of what else to consider or bring to make it an enjoyable trip for you and your pet. Fortunately, East Texan veterinarian, Dr. Sara Ochoa offers the following checklist:
- Travel Bowls - Ideally, bowls will be brought from home to keep consistency. When using travel bowls, it is a good idea to use them at home a few times prior to a trip to create familiarity.
- Leash - Even if your dog spends most time at home off leash, many properties require either a carrier or leash during your stay.
- Toys/chews - Bringing a favorite toy or chew from home can help pass time or make new environments more comfortable for your pet.
- Potty Bags - Most pet parents know that awful feeling of being out for a walk and realizing they don’t have a bag to pick up after their four-legged companion. When traveling, the usual collection of plastic bags we stash near the door won’t be there! Having a package, or a roll of potty bags can be a huge stress reliever.
- Pet Carrier or Crate - Some lodging may require unaccompanied pets to be contained when in the room. Also, pets get a sense of security when in a confined space that they’re familiar with.
- Security Blanket - A great idea to bring the feeling of home with you on the road is to pack your pets' blanket, or even their bed. This familiar item can help reduce their anxiety and make new environments feel more comfortable.
Bon Voyage!
Whichever accommodations you choose when traveling with your pet, all of us at RAWZ wish you happy trails and wagging tails. Use our retail locater to find your nearest RAWZ retail partner wherever your journeys lead and remember, whether traveling or staying home, we can improve the lives of people and your pet together!
