Booking a pet-friendly hotel? 9 tips for a smooth stay

Considering staying at a pet-friendly hotel for your next getaway ? You're in good company. Hotels are increasingly opening their doors to pets (yup, cats, too ), striving to make their stay as welcoming as yours. But if this is your maiden voyage into the world of pet-friendly accommodations, you might feel a little nervous. Here are some tips to ensure both you and your dog have a stress-free and enjoyable hotel stay. Confirm that your room is actually pet friendly Before you click "book now," do a bit more digging. Yes, the hotel says it's pet-friendly, but you need the details. Are specific rooms designated for pets? Maybe an entire floor? A quick call to the front desk can clarify what's available and ensure your dog is not only welcome but also comfortable. It's also a good opportunity to find out if there are any ground-floor rooms available that are PRIMO for pets. You'll thank yourself at midnight when your dog starts whining to go out. Get familiar with the pet policy This is fine print that's actually worth reading before you sign. Every dog-friendly hotel has its own nuances when it comes to welcoming four-legged guests. Some might have breed or size restrictions, while others could include a pet fee on your bill that's nonrefundable. Make sure to read through and speak directly with hotel staff if you have questions. Get there early OK, so this may not be in your control, but do your best to get to the hotel and locate your room while it's still light out. You can take advantage of the extra time to scout out the designated pet relief areas near your room. Knowing where these are located can also save you the stress of wandering around unfamiliar hotel grounds in the wee hours (pun totally intended). It's also a great idea if you have no idea how your dog will react. If they decide to start barking the moment you enter the lobby, it's reassuring to know that you're not waking every. Single. Guest. Spa day, anyone? A pre-trip grooming session means a less stinky dog in your car, plane, train, or however you're traveling. A well-groomed dog is also less likely to shed all over the hotel room, making clean-up easier for everyone involved. It's also a great opportunity for some one-on-one time with your pet before you both face the excitement of new surroundings. Give your dog a thorough brush and bath , and make sure their nails are trimmed (or make an appointment with a pro a few weeks in advance). Brush up on dog training basics If you're bringing along your pup, break out those dog treats and brush up on basic training fundamentals a few weeks before you leave. While your pup may be well-mannered at home, new surroundings filled with different smells, sounds, and sights can be a sensory overload, sometimes leading to unexpected reactions . A quick refresher course on commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" becomes particularly valuable. Bonus points if your dog knows the "quiet" command, especially handy if guest services comes knocking. Pack the essentials, and then some Your packing game should be strong when you're preparing for a trip with your four-legged friend. And I dont' know about you, but I ALWAYS forget something important if I don't have a packing list. So here's a basic one for you. Save this in your phone's notes, customize it for your pup, and use it for every trip: Check this list twice before you go! While you can pick up treats and toys on the fly in most cities, it's tough to get a prescription filled while you're out of town. Mind your pet's manners We'll keep this one short: sadly, not everyone loves dogs, and even avid dog lovers appreciate good manners. The same goes for cats. Always keep your pet leashed or restrained in common areas and promptly pick up after them. Plan for pup-xiety It's generally not a good idea to leave your dog alone in a hotel room, and many hotels actually have rules against it. The unfamiliar environment can heighten your pup's anxiety, potentially leading to disruptive behavior, whether it's incessant barking or some unsolicited "room redecoration." Ideally, aim to include your pet in your activities, consider hiring a local pet sitter , or find a good boarding facility nearby. If you find that you absolutely must leave your four-legged friend behind for a short while, there are ways to minimize their stress: Prep for emergency scenarios When you're traveling, you want good surprises—like a hidden gem like a secluded dog park or pet-friendly cafe. But sometimes, bad situations pop up. So be as prepared as you can, and you'll minimize your stress. Here are some good tips: Consider getting pet insurance A solid pet insurance policy is designed to help reimburse you if your four-legged friend requires medical care during your travels. ManyPets offers pet insurance for accidents and illnesses that remains active while you're traveling within the 50 US states, Washington, D.C., or Canada for up to 90 days. Learn more about pet insurance and travel!

Booking a pet-friendly hotel? 9 tips for a smooth stay

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