Traveling with your dog can be a wonderful experience, and staying in a dog-friendly hotel makes it even more enjoyable. However, it's important to be well-prepared to ensure both you and your dog have a smooth and stress-free stay. Here are some essential tips for staying in a dog-friendly hotel to help make your trip memorable for both you and your furry friend.
1. Call Ahead and Confirm Dog Policy
Even if a hotel claims to be dog-friendly, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and double-check their pet policy. Ask about any size or breed restrictions, additional fees, and specific rules (e.g., areas where dogs are allowed, leash requirements).
2. Pack Your Dog’s Essentials
Make sure to bring everything your dog will need during the stay, including:
- Food and water bowls
- Dog food and treats
- Leash and collar
- Waste bags
- Dog bed or blanket
- Toys and comfort items
- Grooming supplies
Packing these items ensures your dog has everything they need for a comfortable stay.
3. Be Mindful of Noise
Dogs can get startled or stressed in noisy environments, so try to choose a hotel room in a quieter area of the property. Avoid staying near elevators, stairwells, or busy streets. A quieter location will help your dog relax and settle in more easily.
4. Keep Your Dog on a Leash
Even in a dog-friendly hotel, it’s important to keep your dog on a leash when you’re walking through public areas like hallways, the lobby, or outside. This ensures that your dog is safe and respectful of other guests.
5. Practice Good Hotel Etiquette
- Clean up after your dog: Always clean up waste promptly and dispose of it properly.
- Be considerate of other guests: Keep your dog quiet, especially in shared spaces like hallways. If your dog tends to bark or whine, consider bringing calming items, like a favorite toy or blanket, to help them feel at ease.
- Respect hotel rules: Some hotels have designated pet areas or walking paths. Be sure to follow these rules to keep your dog safe and the hotel staff happy.
6. Explore Dog-Friendly Amenities
Some hotels offer special amenities for pets, like dog parks, dog-walking services, or pet-sitting options. Check if your hotel has any dog-friendly extras and take advantage of them to enhance your stay.
7. Consider Your Dog’s Comfort
Make your dog feel at home by providing their own bedding or familiar items from home. A comfortable and familiar environment will help them adjust to the new space and make them feel secure.
8. Keep Your Dog’s Routine
Dogs thrive on routine, so try to stick to your dog’s normal schedule for meals, walks, and potty breaks as much as possible. This helps them feel more comfortable and minimises stress during the trip.
9. Don’t Leave Your Dog Alone in the Room
Many dog-friendly hotels have a no-empties-allowed policy, meaning you shouldn’t leave your dog alone in the room. If you do need to step out, consider hiring a pet sitter or using a doggy daycare nearby.
10. Be Prepared for Additional Fees
While some hotels offer pet-friendly accommodations at no extra charge, many impose a pet fee or charge a cleaning deposit. Be prepared to pay for any additional costs and ensure you're aware of any cleaning requirements or rules before you check in.
Bonus Tip: Keep Your Dog’s Health in Mind
If your dog has special health needs or dietary restrictions, it’s important to research nearby pet-friendly services, such as veterinary clinics or pet stores, in case you need them. Always have your dog's health records handy just in case of an emergency.
By planning ahead and following these tips, you and your dog can have an enjoyable and stress-free stay at a dog-friendly hotel. Happy travels! ✈️🐕