Is a family road trip on your summer agenda? Do you have a pup that is part of your family? With some careful planning your four-legged friend can hit the open road with you. Lodging choices that accommodate pets are widely available for most destinations.
National Hotel Chains
Finding a pet-friendly hotel that is part of a large hotel chain just requires a little bit of homework. Many of the properties within the same chain are independently owned so the pet policy will vary by location. You can start by checking out the hotel brand’s website. Then contact the hotel you plan to stay at directly. Determine if there will be an additional room charge, any breed or weight restrictions, or deposits required to have your pet stay with you. Additionally, you will want to inquire about any amenities available to make your pet feel at home. Some have exclusive areas to walk your dogs, and many concierges can help you with recommendations for pet-friendly parks, stores, and restaurants so you can spend real quality time with your pooch.
Home Rental Booking Sites
In recent years the popularity of renting a room or an owner-owned property has increased. Often you’ll get a relaxed homely feel with a complete set of amenities unavailable at traditional hotel chains. There are at least a dozen vacation home rental sites to choose from. To find out if a listing will let you bring your pet along for your stay, check the house rules section of the listing description. It’s also a good idea to contact the host directly before you book, to find out if there are any specific restrictions.
Cabins and Camping
If the great outdoors is your family’s ideal vacation, you have plenty of options that will welcome your dog. The website Glamping with Pets is a great reference which lists available pet-friendly cabin rentals located across the United States. The selections include tree houses, yurts, tepees, and tents to make your outdoor adventure memorable.
Friends and Family
Are you hitting the road to visit the homes of friends or family?  Even though your family and friends may have a pet of their own, that’s no guarantee that your best furry buddy will be a welcome addition to the guest list. Out of consideration for the host family, it is important to determine if your pet will be at ease in the home you will be staying at before requesting an invite. Take into account how having an additional pet in the home will effect any activities or gatherings that are planned during your stay. Afterall, YOU don’t want to end up in the dog house during the visit.
For more tips on traveling with your dog visit these posts:
Highways & Hounds | Road Trip Tips for Dog Owners
6 Beach Hazards That Can Ruin You and Your Dog’s Day at the Beach
Take a Hike! Tips for Hiking with Your Dog
Author: Stacy Thetford
I am a dog-loving transplanted Texan who has called San Antonio home for thirteen years. I am a wife, mother of one daughter and two sons and grandma to three granddaughters and three grandpups. I enjoy baking, reading, road trips and finding adventures in the Alamo City to share with Cupcake, our beloved Border Collie mix shelter dog.
