What size and type of pets are allowed?

Hotels usually permit dogs and cats under a maximum weight, often 30-50 pounds. Some locations may accept other small pets like birds in cages. However, rooms with exotic pets or extra large dog breeds are less common due to space limits. Kind of surprisingly, emotional support animals are treated the same as pets regarding fees by most hotel chains, according to experts.n

Is my pet safe at a hotel?

As long as doors are securely closed and pets are supervised, the room itself should be secure. Yet some risks remain when leaving pets unattended, like other animals escaping their rooms or strangers bothering pets outside. So it’s best not to leave pets alone for lengthy periods, if possible. But hey, what’s the point of vacation if you can’t relax a little? Maybe just take reasonable precautions.n

What can I do with my pet while sightseeing?

Some hotels allow pets to be left temporarily in rooms, but it’s best not to leave dogs or cats alone for extended periods each day. Alternatively, inquire about local daycare services or dog walkers. Strolling nearby green spaces may also work, if leashed properly. On the other hand, small pets can ride in carriers during short car trips to destinations. Ultimately you want Fido or Fluffy to enjoy the trip too!n

How can I ensure my pet is well-behaved?

Experts suggest practicing basic obedience training and socialization well before trips. Review leash manners and how to address any separation anxiety issues. As for other guests, be considerate of allergies or people who dislike animals. With preparation and courtesy, most pet parents can have pleasant experiences in pet-friendly lodging. But is it fair to assume all animals and humans will get along perfectly? Maybe just aim to do your best.n

Pet Friendly Hotel Chains That Welcome Your Furry Companions

The Top Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains for Traveling with Your Furry Companion

Whether you’re looking to bring Fido along on a vacation or need a pet-sitting option for an extended business trip, finding accommodations that allow pets can be challenging. From my experience traveling with pets, it’s reassuring to know your hotel is prepared to welcome man’s best friend. In this article, I’ll outline some of the most pet-friendly hotel chains and what amenities they offer to make stays with animals as stress-free as possible.

Best Western

As one of the largest hotel brands worldwide, Best Western has you and your pet covered with over 100 locations across the U.S. that accept dogs and cats. What’s great about Best Western is their consistent set of pet policies across properties. You can expect a maximum of two pets per room with a nominal $20-30 fee per night. Upon arrival, they’ll provide bowls, beds, and waste bags in your room. Outdoor areas are also designated for walking and potty breaks.

From my experience staying at Best Western locations when traveling cross-country, their pet amenities really take the hassle out of bringing your furry friend along. Staff are always friendly and accommodating towards pets too. My Cavapoo never wanted to leave the cozy dog bed they provided! With decently-priced rooms and plenty of locations to choose from, Best Western is a top option for budget-friendly pet travel.

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham

Allows up to two pets under 50 lbs each with a non-refundable $25-40 fee.
Provides disposable pet pads, food/water bowls at check-in.
All rooms have tile floors for easy cleanup.
Designated outdoor areas are available for walks.

As a pet owner, I appreciate La Quinta’s attention to pet needs like easy-to-clean tile floors. Their fees are also reasonable whether you have one dog or two small pets in tow. What’s great is the consistency across their 750+ U.S. locations. You know your pet will get the same friendly treatment wherever you book. Outdoor spaces are perfect if it’s raining or you just want to let your dog stretch their legs.

Choice Hotels

Under the Choice Hotels umbrella you’ll find several brands accepting pets including Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and EconoLodge. Policies vary slightly by location but generally allow one dog or cat under 50 lbs with a fee of $10-30 per night. Many rooms have fenced patios or balconies perfect for taking Fido outside. From my experience, front desk staff are eager to direct you to the most pet-friendly properties within the Choice portfolio too.

With 6,200+ locations worldwide, Chance is a reliable choice when you need last-minute accommodations. Their budget prices mean you won’t break the bank bringing your furry friend along either. No matter where the road takes you, you can be confident finding pet lodging under the Choice umbrella.

Pet Friendly Hotel Chains That Welcome Your Furry Companions photo 3

Motel 6

As one of the most affordable lodging options around, Motel 6 stands out for welcoming both pets and their owners. Their pet fee is just $10 per night and allows up to two dogs or cats under 50 lbs each. What amazes me is how pet-centric Motel 6 is – from bowls, beds, and welcome packets placed discreetly in your room to maps of local dog parks. It’s like they really get what pet parents need while traveling.

I’ve stayed at dozens of Motel 6’s over the years and the consistency is remarkable. Outdoor spaces are great for animal potty breaks too. With over 1,400 locations across the U.S. and Mexico, Motel 6 provides budget-friendly pet accommodations wherever your travels take you – no wonder they’re a top choice for many road tripping families.

Extended Stay America

If you need mid-to-long term housing that allows pets, look no further than Extended Stay America. They welcome dogs and cats in suites equipped with kitchenettes, allowing more independence than a regular hotel. Expect fees of $25-75 depending on length of stay. As a pet owner who has used ESA during relocation, I was impressed by how roomy and home-like the suites felt.

Beyond just the room itself, ESA goes above and beyond with their pet amenities. There’s always treats, bowls and beds provided as well as guides to local vets and pet stores. Outdoor areas have grass and benches perfect for precious dog-parent bonding time. I consistently felt the pet friendliness here outmatched any other chain.

With over 600 locations across the U.S., Extended Stay America is the premier choice when you need weeks of lodging versus just a night or two. The home-away-from-home feel is perfect for long trips or temporary housing with pets in tow.

Other Top Pet-Friendly Hotel Options

While the hotel chains mentioned above rank among the best overall, there are standout outliers accepting pets worth exploring too depending on your location needs. Some other solid choices include:

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Residence Inn by Marriott – Studios emphasize long-term stays with fully equipped kitchens. Many properties have fenced outdoor areas.
Homewood Suites by Hilton – All-suite hotels win points for spacious rooms with little kitchens. Fees are usually $75-100 per stay.
Red Roof Inn – An affordable choice like Motel 6 but without quite as many locations. Still dog-friendly nationwide.

Considerations Before Booking

While these chains strive to make pets welcome, it’s always wise to check individual property policies which can vary slightly. A few key things to inquire about include breed restrictions, weight/size limits, acceptable pet cleanup areas, and any pet deposit holds that may apply. Communicating special needs like allergies upfront can help ensure a smooth check-in too.

It’s also a good idea to bring vaccination records in case the hotel needs verification. And of course, be sure to leave contact information in case of any pet-related issues during your stay. Proper preparation goes a long way towards keeping beloved pets stresses-free while traveling.

Tips for Responsible Pet-Friendly Hotel Stays

As a frequent pet traveler, nothing ruins the reputation of pet-loving chains quite like irresponsible owners. Here are some courtesies I try to follow at any hotel accepting pets:

Always clean up after your pet outdoors and use waste bags discretely.
Keep animals on a leash or under supervision if in public areas.
Bring a pet gate or playpen if your pet isn’t crate trained yet.
Request ground floor rooms if possible to avoid noise concerns.
Designate specific potty areas away from entryways.
Leave a generous tip for housekeeping given extra cleaning needs.

Following basic pet etiquette goes a long way in ensuring hotels remain hospitable places for furry friends too. Remember – you’re a representative for all pet owners, so do your part to leave minimal mess and disruption.

The Joys of Including Pets in Travel

While more logistical planning is required with pets in tow, the payoff is well worth it. For myself as a pet parent, nothing feels better than including my furry family in adventures rather than boarding them. The bond grows deeper experiencing new sights together. Plus, who doesn’t love extra cuddles after fun road trips?

With the wide variety of pet-friendly chains across America catering to canine and feline guests, there’s really no reason to leave beloved pets behind. By doing a bit of research into the options mentioned here, you can feel confident any hotel in your route will roll out the welcome mat for your four-legged family members too. Happy trails!