Guide to Pet Friendly Hotel Options

Here’s a comprehensive guide to pet-friendly hotels, including major chains, booking tips, and what to watch out for.

Major Hotel Chains Known for Being Pet-Friendly

Many large chains have consistent pet policies across most of their locations. Always call the specific hotel you’re booking to confirm their policy, as it can vary by location.

Top Tier (Often No Fee or Weight Limit)

• Kimpton Hotels: The gold standard for pet-friendliness. They welcome any number of pets, regardless of size, weight, or breed, at no extra charge. They often have amenities like pet beds, bowls, and a “Director of Pet Relations” (a house pet).

• Loews Hotels: Another excellent option with a “Loews Loves Pets” program. They provide amenities like treats, bowls, placemats, and even a specialized room service menu. Fees and weight limits vary by location.

• Red Roof Inn: A great budget-friendly option. Most locations allow one family pet per room to stay for free. They have a simple policy that’s easy for travelers.

Very Good (Common but with Fees & Rules)

• Marriott:

  • Aloft Hotels: Welcomes dogs up to 40 lbs for no extra fee (at most locations). They have a program called “Arf” with a special bed, bowl, and treats.

  • W Hotels: The “P.A.W.” program welcomes pets with amenities like a custom bed, food/water bowls, and a toy. Fees apply.

  • Sheraton, Westin, Renaissance: Generally pet-friendly but with varying fees (typically $50 – $150 per stay) and weight limits (often 40-80 lbs).

• Hilton:

  • Homewood Suites & Home2 Suites: Often pet-friendly with reasonable fees. The suite layout with separate living areas can be great for families with pets.

  • Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, DoubleTree: Many locations are pet-friendly, but policies and fees vary widely. Always check.

• Hyatt:

  • Hyatt Place & Hyatt House: Many locations welcome pets, typically with a fee and a weight limit.

• IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group):

  • Hotel Indigo: Known for being pet-friendly, with policies that often include no weight limit (but a fee).

  • Staybridge Suites & Candlewood Suites: These extended-stay brands are usually a good bet for pets.

Budget & Motel Options

• Motel 6: Nearly all of their 1,400+ locations are pet-friendly, and pets stay free. They have a simple, no-fuss policy.

• La Quinta by Wyndham: A large number of their locations allow pets, many for free, though some have started implementing fees. It’s crucial to check the specific property.

How to Search and Book Effectively

1. Use Pet-Friendly Filters: On booking sites like BringFido, Booking.com, Expedia, or Airbnb, always use the “Pets Allowed” filter. BringFido is specialized and often has the most detailed policy information.

2. Call the Hotel Directly: This is the most important step. A website might say “pets allowed,” but only a phone call can confirm:

   • Fees: Is it a per-night fee or a one-time per-stay fee? What’s the total cost?

   • Weight/Breed Restrictions: What is the weight limit? Are there any restricted breeds?

   • Deposit: Is there a refundable pet deposit?

   • Rules: Can pets be left alone in the room? Are there designated pet relief areas?

Key Questions to Ask the Hotel

• “What are your pet fees and deposits?”

• “Is there a weight or breed restriction?”

• “How many pets are allowed per room?”

• “Are pets allowed to be left unattended in the room?” (This is a very common rule often they cannot).

• “Are there any designated pet relief areas on the property?”

Tips for a Smooth Stay with Your Pet

• Bring Familiar Items: Your pet’s bed, blanket, and favorite toys will help them feel more at home.

• Pack the Essentials: Don’t forget food, water bowls, leash, waste bags, and any medications.

• Update ID Tags: Ensure your pet’s collar has a tag with your current contact information, especially your cell phone number.

• Be a Courteous Guest:

  • Always clean up after your pet, both inside and outside the hotel.

  • Keep your pet on a leash in all common areas.

  • Minimize barking and noise to be respectful of other guests.

  • Use a crate if your pet is used to it, especially if you need to leave them alone briefly (if the hotel allows it).

In summary: For a hassle-free, luxurious experience, Kimpton and Loews are fantastic. For a reliable, no-frills stay, Motel 6 and Red Roof Inn are great budget choices. For everything in between, always call the specific hotel to confirm their unique rules and fees.