Planning a vacation and thinking of taking your dog along for the fun? With a little extra preparation and organization, traveling with your furry family member can add an extra layer of joy to your adventures. The good news: With the rise in pet-friendly attractions and accommodations, it’s become increasingly easier to travel with your pup. When searching for somewhere to stay, you can certainly opt for a dog-friendly hotel. However, if you’re looking for more space and something that feels a bit more like home then check out a pet-friendly Airbnb rental.
Wait … Is Airbnb Dog-Friendly?
Airbnb allows individual hosts to decide whether they will accept pets in their vacation rentals. The only strict policy Airbnb enforces is regarding service animals, which hosts must accept. While you have to search for them, there are a variety of pet-friendly options available on the platform.
How to Find a Pet-Friendly Airbnb
Finding a dog-friendly Airbnb is pretty simple! When conducting your search on the Airbnb website, first, you’ll specify where you’re going, when you’re traveling, and who is traveling. Under the “Who” section, you will check off the number of guests and the number of pets accompanying you. The filter looks like this:
Double Check & Read the Listing’s Fine Print
While the initial filter helps narrow down your rental options, it’s still vital to read each listing’s description thoroughly. Some hosts may accidentally have their settings turned on to accept pets when they really don’t. Other hosts may have specific pet restrictions, such as limiting size and number. It’s quite common to see hosts only accept small dogs (under a certain weight) or limit the number of dogs (for example, two dogs max). Some hosts may welcome dogs, but not cats. In any case, take note of any rules or additional fees related to pets.
Read Reviews
While on your hunt for the perfect place to stay, make sure to read reviews written by previous guests. Pay attention to all positive and negative reviews, especially by people who have stayed with their pets.
Contact the Host to Verify Their Pet Policy & Disclose You’re Traveling with a Pet
When requesting to book an Airbnb that’s listed as pet-friendly, I highly encourage you to still send a message to the host. This is your opportunity to disclose you’ll be traveling with a pet. In that message, provide details about your furry family member. Let the host know about your dog’s temperament, size, and any special requirements. Ask about any additional pet or cleaning fees and inquire about the house rules (we’ll talk more about that in a minute). I know this may sound a bit over-the-top, but it’s your way of verifying the listed pet policy is accurate/up-to-date. Ultimately, this helps to eliminate any potential surprises or issues down the road.
Plan for Emergencies
This is something you should do regardless of your accommodation choice. So you’re always prepared in case of emergencies, research the nearest veterinary office and have their contact information on hand. It’s also a smart idea to travel with your dog’s vaccination records, a pet first-aid kit, and a current photo of your dog (in case they were ever to dart off and get lost).
Take Everything Your Dog Needs
Even when an Airbnb is pet-friendly, don’t rely on the host to provide any necessities for your pup. Make sure to pack their food, treats, water, bowls, harness/leash, medications, crate, blankets, and a few of their favorite toys. Bring whatever they need to feel comfortable.
Follow the House Rules
If you’ve ever stayed at an Airbnb then you know each house comes with its own set of rules. Typically, you’ll receive some rules online – both in the description and then additional rules in a welcome email from the host after booking. Plus, most hosts leave a detail-filled binder somewhere in the rental for you to review and follow. If the rental is pet-friendly, there will be specific items about your pup. Some rules may be:
- No pets on the furniture
- No letting your pets use the provided kitchen plates/bowls
- Don’t leave pets unattended
- Use designated areas for potty time
If you have any issues with the rules, discuss them with the rental host. However, unless you have permission to ignore a set rule, it’s important to respect the host’s boundaries. After all, they own the property… not you! Failure to abide by the host’s rules could result in fines and a bad review about you.
Take Photos of Every Room When You Arrive … and Again When You Leave
This is to document the condition of each room and protect yourself against any potential charges/disputes.
Create a Doggy Corner
This is optional, but it may help comfort your pup. When you first arrive at your rental, walk around the property and explore each room with your dog. Then, designate certain spots as “doggy safe spaces.” These are your spots to set up their crate or dog bed. Fill these areas with your dog’s blanket and toys.
Think Twice Before Leaving Your Dog Behind
Certain hosts may not have an issue with you leaving your dog alone in the Airbnb while you go explore the town and dine out. However, it’s important to consider your dog’s personality and temperament. Is your pup comfortable alone in unfamiliar areas? If so, you may be able to tuck them into their crate and let them snooze while you’re out. However, you don’t want to stress your dog and/or receive noise complaints from neighbors. So, if you think your dog will bark continuously while you’re gone … or cause any damage to the property … do yourself a favor and hire a local pet sitter to come and be with your dog.
Tips: If you plan to leave your dog alone in the Airbnb at any point, bring your Furbo dog camera. Set it up so you can routinely check in on your dog, to ensure they’re comfortable and behaving appropriately.
Clean Up After Your Pet
Make sure to pick up your dog’s poo in the yard and properly discard. Plus, if your dog has a potty accident inside the Airbnb, promptly clean it up. If your dog is a shedder and there is a vacuum tucked inside one of the closets, it’s nice to give the house a quick once-over. All-in-all, just respect the property and surrounding areas.
Happy travels!
