Planning a vacation can be ruff when you have pets. As a fur parent myself, I know the struggle of worrying about where Fido or Fluffy will stay while I’m gone. But thanks to a growing number of pet-friendly hotels, traveling with your four-legged family members has never been easier.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 hotel chains rolling out the red carpet for pets so you can relax and enjoy a paw-some getaway.
Why Pet-Friendly Hotels Matter
Let’s face it – our pets are part of the family. The thought of putting them in a kennel or leaving them with strangers can cause serious distress, both for us and our furry friends. According to recent surveys, a whopping 72% of pet owners said they won’t travel if they can’t bring their pets.
Additionally, being separated from their human can lead to anxiety, depression, and even destructive behaviors in pets. But bringing them along on trips can actually lower stress levels for both parties.
Luckily, the demand for pet-friendly lodging is on the rise. In fact, a recent American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) survey found that 75% of hotels now allow pets – that’s up from just 46% in 2016. This surge is likely fueled by record rates of pet adoptions during the pandemic. With more new pet parents eager to travel with their quarantine companions, hotels are taking notice and expanding their pet amenities.
The Top 5 Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains
If you’re looking to vacation with your favorite furball, these hotel chains offer the most paw-some pet perks:
1. Kimpton Hotels
As one of the OG pet-positive hotel chains, Kimpton Hotels has perfected the art of catering to animal guests. Part of their secret sauce? Employing real-life Directors of Pet Relations to ensure your pup or kitty feels like a VIP.
The Kimpton pet policy welcomes any type of animal free of charge, with no restrictions based on size, breed, or number of pets. All rooms come equipped with plush beds, bowls, treats, waste bags, and toys to keep your BFF entertained. Their VIP (Very Important Pet) program even offers personalized concierge services like pet sitting, walking, grooming and more.
Bottom line: Kimpton sets the gold standard for pet hospitality.
2. Virgin Hotels
Founded by the billionaireSir Richard Branson, Virgin Hotels brings that signature funky-yet-elevated Virgin flair to their pet policy. Dogs of all sizes can stay free of charge and are welcomed with open paws.
Upon arrival, your pooch will receive a specialized dog bed, gourmet treats, food/water bowls, cleanup bags, and a stylish pet bandana to strut their stuff. Virgin Hotels also features dog-friendly dining menus so you and Fido can share a meal. And you’lllove their unique pet-loving room design – rooms include a porcelain “watchdog” statue posted outside your door to alert staff that a pet is inside.
With locations currently open in major cities like Chicago, Dallas, New York and Nashville (plus Las Vegas and New Orleans), Virgin Hotels is an exciting new player in the pet-friendly hotel game.
3. Loews Hotels
As part of their “Loews Loves Pets” program, this luxury hotel chain offers some of the most pampered pet packages around. Along with the usual amenities like beds, bowls, and waste bags, Loews Hotels provides welcome toys, treats, leashes/collars, litter setups, door hangers, plus maps of local dog parks and walking trails.
For ultimate care, you can even request pet sitting and dog walking services arranged by the concierge. And no detail is overlooked—Loews Hotels’ in-house chefs will whip up gourmet room service menus tailored specifically for dogs and cats. Now that’s catering to our furry VIPs!
With top-tier locations spread across major U.S. cities and resort destinations, Loews Hotels offers superior service for both pets and their parents. Just be aware that fees and restrictions may apply depending on the property.
4. Marriott International
As the largest hotel company in the world with over 7,600 properties globally, it’s no surprise that Marriott offers diverse pet policies across its vast portfolio of 30 brands.
Marriott identifies at least 10 of its brands as “pet friendly,” though specific rules vary. For example, select Westin and Sheraton hotelsprovide plush dog beds, bowls, treats, and walking route recommendations free of charge. Brands like Aloft and Element welcome dogs under 40 pounds and offer free amenities during your pets’ stay.
So while Marriott doesn’t have a blanket policy across all properties, they still boast some of the most inclusive options for traveling with pets. Be sure to check directly with your hotel regarding fees, size limitations, approved areas, and any deposit requirements.
5. Hilton
Similar to Marriott, Hilton Worldwide encompasses many brands with differing takes on allowing pets. That said, Hilton claims around 80% of their global properties accept pets in some capacity.
Popular pet-friendly Hilton brands include Canopy, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn, Homewood Suites, Home2 Suites, and Hilton Garden Inn. Again, specific rules around species, size, weight limits, designated pet areas, and fees vary depending on where you stay.
One standout perk for Hilton guests? Partnering with the Mars Petcare veterinary team allows access to pet health experts that can answer questions about your animal’s needs before or during your trip.
Do Your Research
While these major chains generally welcome pets, granular restrictions can still apply depending on the individual hotel. Be sure to connect directly with your desired location to understand their specific regulations, limitations, fees and documentation requirements (such as proof of vaccinations).
Many properties also require deposits in case of damage, with restrictions on leaving pets unattended in rooms. And some may designate certain floors or rooms for guests with pets to avoid allergy issues.
By double-checking everything in advance, you can ensure a smooth check-in and relaxing getaway with your favorite furry co-pilot.
The Future Looks Bright for Pet-Friendly Travel
In our increasingly pet-obsessed culture, demand will only grow for hotels catering to both human and animal guests. As more travelers prioritize vacationing with their pets, brands that haven’t jumped on board will need to expand their pet policies to stay competitive.
We’ll also likely see hotels take the on-site amenities to the next level in creative ways. Imagine litter robots for cats, biodegradable dog waste bags, vet or grooming services, indoor relief areas – the sky’s the limit!
For me, the choice is simple: Any hotel willing to pamper my pup gets my business. Based on trends, I know more and more pet parents feel the same.
So next time you’re planning a vacation or staycation with your favorite furry companion, be sure to check out these top pet-friendly hotel chains making travel paw-some for animals and humans alike!
