article006

Pet-Friendly = More Business

As low as
$0.00

Subtotal:

$0.00
Adding to cart… The item has been added
Pet-Friendly = More Business
August 29, 2011
“No Pets” policies are common in the hotel industry. But maybe they shouldn't be. Not allowing pets severely limits the number of guests that hotels attract.

You may think “So what, we don't want pets at our hotel.” Ok - But do you want to sell more rooms? I bet you do. According to the American Pet Products Association, Americans own approximately 78 million dogs. Add in cats, birds and other animals and that number is much higher. Pet lover or not, the fact is that pets are an extension of the family and leaving pets behind while traveling simply is not an option for many travelers. Rather than fighting this fact, consider welcoming pets and increasing revenues.

If you decide to go to go pet friendly, here are a few things to consider:

Fee or Free - Deciding to charge for pets is entirely up to you. Some hotels allow pets to stay for free, but it is not uncommon for hotels to charge for pets. Fees can run as little as $15 and go up from there. Typically the fees pay for any additional cleaning needed in pet rooms - such carpet cleaning.

Restrictions - Here are some common pet restrictions to consider:

Types of Pets - Dogs are the most commonly traveled pet, but some people travel with cats, rabbits, birds, snakes, etc. Are you comfortable with all pets or just certain types?

Breeds - If you're uncomfortable with Pit Bulls, Rottweilers or any other breeds, make sure to include this in your pet policy.

Size - You may also consider limiting pets by weight or size.

Entire Property or Just a Few Rooms - Depending on your property, you may reserve a few rooms strictly for guests with pets. The added benefit of limiting pets to specific rooms is that it restricts pet dander to specific rooms which is great for non-pet owners who may be allergic to animals.

However, if you anticipate lots of pets, consider making your entire property pet friendly.
Whatever you decide on, make sure to develop a clear, concise Pet Policy. This will help avoid any confusion and problems down the line.

Also, if you allow pets, make sure to advertise it. There are countless websites, such as www.petswelcome.com, www.pet-friendly-hotels.net, and www.bringfido.com that are dedicated to promoting pet friendly hotels, motels and B&Bs. Many of these websites will list your property for free as long as you have a clear pet policy in place. Similarly, if your property has its own website, make sure that your pet friendliness is clearly displayed so visitors are aware your property accommodates pets.

You May Also Like

Business Card Holder

Business Card Holder

As low as
$3.50

/ea.

16-Channel Business Radio

16-Channel Business Radio

As low as
$112.00

/ea.

Complete Pet Waste Station

Complete Pet Waste Station

As low as
$695.00

/ea.

Pet Waste Roll Bag Dispenser for Pet Waste Station

Pet Waste Roll Bag Dispenser for Pet Waste Station

As low as
$198.00

/ea.

Pet Waste Collection Station

Pet Waste Collection Station

As low as
$695.00

/ea.

Reviews

How Can We Help?

Four easy ways our team can answer questions below!