How to choose your pet-friendly accommodation?

Vacations are coming, parties are coming, and it's time to pack. And pets are increasingly participating in these family moments, right?

But when choosing a place to stay, should you just check if it says "pet-friendly"? Are all pet-friendly hotels the same? I assure you, they're not!

Don't be fooled by the "pet-friendly" label that many establishments require. Simply accepting pets doesn't guarantee the desired experience; after all, accepting is different from welcoming.

Before making your reservation, it's essential to thoroughly understand the hotel or guesthouse's pet-friendly policy and proposal to ensure it meets not only your basic requirements but also your specific expectations. Some important points to consider:

The destination

Is the city or region pet-friendly? Are the tours and activities you want to do suitable for your pet? If you're going to walk 20km a day but have an elderly, chubby bulldog, it's not a good combination, is it? In addition to considering accommodations, it's essential to consider all other aspects of the trip, such as transportation, restaurants, tours, and transfers.

In addition to thinking about accommodation, it's essential to evaluate all other aspects of your trip, such as transportation, restaurants, tours, and transfers.

Does the hotel accept YOUR pet?

The hotel or inn may be pet-friendly, but welcoming YOUR pet is another matter. Some accommodations have size restrictions, accepting only small or medium-sized pets, some only allowing them to be carried, and there may also be breed, species, or quantity restrictions. Simply using the "pet-friendly" filter is almost never enough, especially if you have a medium or large pet, or more than one. Check all the rules and be sure before booking.

Align expectations

Just because you saw on the website that the hotel has wonderful pools and is pet-friendly, doesn't mean your furry friend will swim in all of them. Check which common and leisure areas are pet-friendly and if there are any restrictions. Find out if there's a run-off area or recreational facilities specifically for animals. Some hotels are pet-friendly, but they're not allowed in any area. If you're spending the day sightseeing and only coming back to sleep, these rules might work for you, but if you're hoping to enjoy leisure time with your pet, this could be a problem.

Find out about the hotel's physical structure and whether it's suitable for you and your pet's needs. Details like stairs can be tricky if you have a pet that uses a wheelchair, has back problems, or has mobility restrictions, for example. Check if there's a place to eat with your pet. Most hotels don't allow pets in their restaurants, but some have tables in outdoor areas or designated areas. Establishing expectations in advance is essential.

Make sure there's a place to eat with your pet. Most hotels don't allow pets in their restaurants, but some have outdoor tables or designated areas.

Aligning expectations beforehand is essential.

Avoid surprises

Ask in advance about additional fees for pets. Some hotels and inns charge extra fees for pets, which can be per day or a fixed amount for the stay. Be aware, check in advance, and avoid surprises on your bill.

Choose establishments prepared to welcome pets.

Hotels and inns that are prepared to welcome pets have clear and fair rules, train staff on how to interact with pets and owners, and may even offer special services and tours for your furry friends. Find out if the establishment has experience, certifications, and training in handling pets; this will certainly make a difference in your experience.