What's the average pet fee at hotels?

$25-$75 per stay at most chains. Boutique hotels and resorts can charge significantly more.

Can I leave my dog alone in a hotel room?

Many hotels require pets not be left unattended. Some allow it with the Do Not Disturb sign. Always check policy.

Are cats welcome at pet-friendly hotels?

Some, but not all. Many 'pet-friendly' hotels mean dog-friendly. Always confirm cats are allowed.

What if my dog has an accident in the hotel?

Clean what you can, notify the front desk immediately and offer to pay any cleaning fee. Honesty beats hidden surprises every time.

Travel With Pets

Pet-Friendly Hotel Checklist: Pack Smart, Stay Easy

Dog resting on a washable blanket in a hotel room with travel gear nearby

Pet-friendly hotels are the easy part — most major chains welcome dogs (and some cats) for a small fee. The harder part is being the kind of guest who gets invited back. A solid checklist and a few etiquette habits make every hotel stay smooth.

Confirm pet policy in writing

Pet-friendly doesn't always mean any pet, any size. Confirm: weight limits (usually 50-75 lbs), number of pets allowed, pet fee (usually $25-$75 per stay or per night), and whether dogs can be left unattended in the room. Get the confirmation in writing.

Essential packing list

Familiar blanket or bed (smell of home reduces anxiety), foldable travel bowl, portable water bottle, regular food in sealed container, leash and waste bags, a few favorite toys, current vaccination records, and emergency vet contact for the destination city.

Protect the room

Place a washable blanket on the bed and any chair your pet might use. Use the foldable bowl on a towel to catch spills. Bring a small lint roller — leaving the room covered in fur is a fast way to lose your deposit. Vacuum your car or carrier before unloading.

Don't leave pets alone in the room (mostly)

Many hotels require it; many pets struggle with it. New environment + alone + housekeeping knocking = barking, accidents and complaints. If you must step out briefly, hang the Do Not Disturb sign, leave a TV on low, and keep it under an hour.

Tip housekeeping

Even if your pet was perfect, leave $5-$10 extra per day for housekeeping. They deal with hair, vacuuming and the occasional surprise. Good karma keeps pet-friendly policies generous for everyone.