Some pets shouldn't travel due to health, safety, or temperament concerns. For example, if your dog hates to travel and becomes sick or anxious, then it may be better to leave him at home with a pet-sitter you trust. Older pets or pets with existing health issues should not travel unless given the "okay" by your veterinarian. Pets who are aggressive or extremely nervous shouldn't travel either.

Also reconsider bringing your pet if the only option is to travel by airline. Most pets would need to travel in the cargo hold, where you can't see him or monitor how he's doing. Traveling by car with your pet properly secured (in a travel crate or with a seat belt, for example) is best.

Hotels and resorts sometimes offer amenities even to your pets! Often times there will be designated "pet rooms" or "pet floors", usually on the first floor to make it easier for guests to bring their pets outside.

Motels often have rooms that open to the outside, so that you have easy access for when you need to bring your dog out for a potty break.

Bed & Breakfasts may have resident pets on-site. If you plan to stay in a B&B that has resident pets, make sure your own pets are well socialized. They should also be comfortable and calm around strangers since you'll be in close quarters with other guests as well as the hosts.

Cottage resorts can be a great option for travelers who enjoy being closer to nature. However, cottage resorts are also a favorite of families with children - so your pets usually need to be leashed, and calm and friendly around lots of noise and activity.

Individual cottages or vacation homes can offer even more privacy. You don't have to share the property with anyone else (except possibly the owners, and of course any neighbors nearby).

Always book accommodations in advance when you are bringing your pet. Lots of places only have a few pet-friendly units available and if they're booked, you're out of luck. Book early to be sure you get what you want - and please don't sneak in a pet - it gives all travelers with pets a bad name! Tell the reservations desk that you're bringing a pet. Well-behaved pets encourage lodgings to stay pet-friendly and encourage others to consider accepting pets.

Accommodations usually charge a "pet fee" for allowing pets to stay with you. These fees are usually reasonable (often less than what you'd pay a pet-sitter or a boarding kennel!).

Ask the amount of the pet fee. Find out if the fee is per pet (or a flat rate that covers all the pets you're bringing); and whether the fee is per night (or a flat rate for your whole stay).

If you are asked for a pet deposit, ask if it's refundable. Some lodgings charge a non-refundable fee to cover the additional cleaning costs.

Every accommodation has "pet policies" or "pet rules". This is help ensure that all guests, including those who don't have pets, enjoy their stay.

Rules that you should always follow, even if the pet policy doesn't mention it:

- Clean up after your pet. Do it right away and dispose of the waste.

- Don't let your pet disturb other guests. No excessive barking / whining, no jumping up on other guests, and no running loose (except with permission)!

- Keep dogs leashed and other pets contained when you're outside of your room. The only exception is when you have your host's permission to have your dog off-leash (sometimes possible at smaller accommodations such as cottages, when it's not busy).

- Don't bring pets into restaurants, pool areas, fitness areas, spas, or other common areas unless you're specifically told that it's okay.

- Be neat. Wipe off wet or dirty pets before letting them back into the room. Clean up excess fur. Promptly notify the front desk if your pet has an accident and offer to clean it up.

Some accommodations will ask you to sign a Pet Waiver or Pet Agreement when you check-in. These documents state what's expected of you as a guest with a pet, and usually indicate that guests are responsible for any damages caused by their pets. Common pet policies include:

- Dogs only. Many pet-friendly accommodations will allow dogs but not cats, birds, or other pets. Always ask.

- Weight restrictions. "Small dogs only" is pretty common. If they don't specify what's considered "small", then ask.

- Maximum number of pets. Most lodgings limit the number of pets per unit to 1 or 2.

- Types of rooms available to guests with pets. Some accommodations will limit pet owners to "smoking rooms only". If this is an issue then make a request for a pet-friendly, non-smoking room.

- Pets can't be left unattended. Travelers often complain about this rule since they'd like to go out for dinner or take in some attractions that don't allow them to bring their pets. This rule is in place because pets left alone in an unfamiliar place often get anxious and will bark or become destructive if left alone.

Ask the front desk if it's okay to leave your pet, crated, if you provide a cell phone number just in case. If not, then ask if they know of a nearby doggy daycare or pet-sitter.

Finally, always confirm pet policies. Even if you've stayed there before, ask to make sure that your pet will be welcome. Pet policies often change and it's best to be safe!

- Always mention your pet when booking an accommodation.

- Respect the 'pet rules'. If you don't like the rules of one establishment, find another one.

- Bring your own 'pet stuff'. That includes a travel crate, bedding, and food & water dishes. Click here for a pet travel checklist.

- Travel responsibly with your pet. Keep pets under control and don't allow them to disturb other guests.