Traveling with your dog can be a fun adventure—after all, what’s better than exploring a new city with your furry friend by your side? However, staying in a hotel with a dog can sometimes feel like a challenge. With a bit of preparation, though, you can ensure your pup feels just as comfortable as you do. Here’s how to make sure your dog feels right at home while staying at a hotel.
Choose a Hotel that Welcomes Pets
Not all hotels are pet-friendly, so it’s important to find one that allows four-legged guests. While some pet-friendly hotels simply tolerate dogs, others welcome them with open arms. Look for hotels that have experience hosting pets. These places often offer amenities like dog beds, treats, and special areas for pets to roam. Be sure to check guest reviews too, as other pet owners can give great insights into how the hotel treats its four-legged guests.
Familiarize Yourself with the Hotel’s Pet Policies
Before booking your stay, make sure you’re aware of the hotel’s pet policies. Some hotels have specific rules regarding the size or breed of dogs they allow, while others may charge an additional pet fee. It’s also important to ask about the hotel’s expectations regarding pet behavior, such as leash requirements or where your dog is allowed to roam within the hotel.
Knowing the rules ahead of time ensures you’re prepared for any extra fees or necessary paperwork, like vaccination records. This can save you from any surprises upon check-in and ensure your dog’s stay goes smoothly.
Request a Room on the Ground Floor
If you have the option, request a room on the ground floor. Not only is this more convenient for bathroom breaks, but it also makes it easier for your dog to go in and out of the room without having to wait for an elevator. Many dogs can feel anxious in elevators, and taking the stairs may not always be feasible for senior dogs.
A ground-floor room also tends to be quieter, which can help your dog relax more easily. You can also ask the hotel staff for a room that isn’t near heavy foot traffic. Staying in a more secluded room when possible means less noise from elevators and other guests, making your pup’s stay more relaxing.
Bring Fido’s Daily Essentials
Packing for your dog is just as important as packing for yourself! Your dog’s daily routine doesn’t have to change just because you’re away from home. Pack all of Fido’s essentials, like food, water, bowls, treats, favorite toys, and their bed or blanket. Having familiar items will help them feel more at ease in their new surroundings.
Also, bring along waste bags for bathroom breaks and make sure you have a collar or harness with identification in case of an emergency. The more you can replicate your dog’s daily routine, the more comfortable they’ll feel during your stay.
Stay in with Your Dog on the First Night
Staying in during the first night at a hotel with your dog can be a good way to reduce your canine’s separation anxiety. This gives them time to adjust to their new surroundings without feeling abandoned. Having you around for the first night can help them feel safer, especially if they’re not used to being away from home.
Staying in for the first night also allows you to observe how your dog reacts to the new environment. You’ll see whether they’re anxious, exploring the room, or resting, and come up with a game plan for the next day based on their behavior.
Give Your Pup Plenty of Exercise
When staying in a hotel with your dog, it’s essential to make sure they burn off plenty of energy. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise throughout the day, whether it’s a walk around the hotel grounds, a visit to a nearby dog park, or a game of fetch. If you’re staying in a city, plan to drive Fido to nearby dog-friendly parks or open spaces where they can stretch their legs. A tired dog is a happy (and quiet) dog, making your hotel stay more enjoyable for everyone.
Puppy-Proof the Hotel Room
Finally, take some time to puppy-proof the hotel room. Keep valuables out of reach, check for any hazards like exposed electrical outlets, and make sure your dog doesn’t have access to anything they shouldn’t be chewing on. It’s also important to ensure that your dog has no access to cleaning supplies, toiletries, or any other items they might mistake for a chew toy. If possible, keep your dog’s favorite toys accessible to prevent destructive behaviors driven by boredom. Puzzle toys are another excellent way to keep your pup entertained while you’re away.
Traveling with your dog can be a rewarding experience, and with a little preparation, you can make sure your pup feels right at home. Follow these tips, and your next hotel stay will be a great time for both of you!
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