How to Find the Best Pet Friendly Hotels

by Kelly Marshall
(USA)

For most dog lovers, not having their pet with them while they are on vacation seems like torture. Because of this, many owners will load up the car and plan a trip that allows them to take their dog along for the ride. While there are a number of establishments that will welcome your pet, others will turn you away. Before you plan your trip, you will need to hunt down the best options you have. We'll take a look at some ways to get you with the best pet friendly hotel.

Photo Credit: davidburn - Flickr

As you begin the process, turn towards the internet to seek out help for locating the perfect travel destinations. Not only will you be able to find hotels and other locations that will allow you to bring your pet along, you have the chance to see what others have said. This way you don't stay in a bad neighborhood in an attempt to bring your pet along. Research will be essential during this time.

There are some magazines that are dedicated to pet travel as well. Check at your local pet supply store or even at your vet's office as you attempt to locate one of these periodicals. In each issue, you can read about destinations to take your pet, and many nice hotels will advertise in the pages of the magazine. This can be among the best ways to get the best travel recommendations, and some of the publications will also list their own ratings for certain places to stay.

Bed and Breakfasts can be a great alternative to the traditional hotel. Many of these locations are run by individuals who are more relaxed than big hotel chains, and will welcome your pet into their home. Best of all, you will find that most of these locations have a backyard that your pet can play in, and do their business in without any problems from the owners of the facility.

Friends can also provide you with a great alternative to the hotel options you might have. If you are visiting someone, see if they would welcome your pet into their home. This can help you to save some money, and give them a little extra cash into their hands for opening their home to you while you are on vacation. If they aren't a pet owner, be sure that they don't have allergies, as this can pose as a problem down the road if they think they can handle it, but become allergic to our pet.

Before you head out on your trip, make sure you call ahead and confirm that the place you are going to be staying does allow for pets. While there are some online websites that will report a hotel is pet friendly, they might have rules on the size and breeds they will allow. In some cases, hotels will remove their pet accommodations and websites aren't updated. To prevent a problem from occurring, make sure that you adjust you confirm in advance, so your vacation can be one that is very relaxing.

About the Author: Kelly is a writer for Oh My Dog Supplies, the place to go for dog carriers, car seat covers and more travel related dog gear.