Traveling With Your Pet

Myth #1: If a lodging establishment says they are "pet friendly", then they will definitely welcome my pet.

Unfortunately, "pet friendly" is an overused and abused term these days. There are a plethora of websites listing thousands of "pet friendly" lodging options, yet offering no standard definition of what the term means.

The hidden reality is that unless you have no preference for smoking vs non-smoking, have lots of money to spend, and own a 10 pound, non-shedding pet, the term "pet friendly" will likely not provide any sort of guarantee that you will receive the accommodation you are looking for. To prove this point, here are some actual accommodation provider policies listed on some of the "pet friendly" lodging websites:

Pets must be in smoking rooms only (common policy)
Pets off-season only
Non-shedding dogs only allowed
Dogs must be under 10lbs
You must keep your pet in your car or tied up outside of the property

Remember that most establishments that allow pets set limits on the type and size of pets they allow, which rooms they allow pets in, and what pet fee they charge. Even when they do allow your type and size of pet, there can be quite a bit of inconsistence from one hotel to the next as to how you are received when you stroll through the doors with your pet in tow. Some staff members are much more welcoming than others.

In spite of these warnings, don't get disheartened. There are a couple of helpful techniques to help you select the most suitable property for you and your pet. First, use a reliable resource for finding lodging establishments that welcome, rather than tolerate, pets. WWW.petscanstay.com lists accommodations that are members of the Pets Can Stay certification program, and who meet the program's standards for pet guest policies and services. There are also some state and provincial tourist guides that provide some information on which establishments accept pets, and with what restrictions.

Second, call the property directly to access the information you are looking for. Ask specific questions to determine whether the accommodation provider is a good fit for you and your pet. These two techniques, reliable resources and contacting the property directly, will benefit you in your journeys by alleviating unnecessary hassle and guesswork.

Myth #2: Online reservations are the cheapest and most reliable way of booking "pet friendly" accommodations.

When used properly, online bookings can be convenient for setting up trips. However, a solid understanding of the different online booking options can be of great benefit when it comes to making your travel arrangements.

Third Party Booking Engines

Many online booking companies claim to offer the best rates and methods of booking travel. While they can offer good deals from time to time, they will not always provide the lowest rates available, and may charge extra service fees and cancellation penalties that can add up on your bill. Some travelers have been hit with automatic penalties from the online booking company for canceling their reservations (even though the reservation was only made the day prior, and more than a month before the scheduled date of arrival)!

Direct Online Bookings

Many establishments have reservation systems built into their websites to allow travelers to book their rooms directly. Although these systems can be convenient and offer good rates, many of them are not adapted for pet-toting travelers. Most booking forms do not contain separate fields to indicate you are bringing a pet, so where possible note this information in available comments sections. Also, most properties only provide a limited number of units designated for pets, so even though the establishment may show availability for your scheduled arrival date, their pet-designated rooms may not be available. To ensure you will be accommodated, call the accommodation provider directly either right before or immediately after you make your online reservation, and put your mind at rest.

In the end, a little effort in the early planning stages of your trip will go a long way. Do your research before selecting a "pet friendly" property to ensure that it will accommodate your particular pet, and be selective about your method of setting up your reservation. Happy trails!

For more information on certified pet friendly accommodations, visit Pets Can Stay. For regional pet-friendly linstings, visit Love Your Pet Expo Pet-Friendly Locations.