Many Airbnb hosts are open to accommodating pets, but it’s essential to communicate with the host before booking your stay to understand their specific guidelines and rules. Some hosts may have pet-related restrictions and rigorous regulations in place. Additionally, preparing your pet for the trip includes ensuring you have enough food, treats, toys, and a comfortable bed.
In the past, traveling with your furry friend presented challenges. However, the good news is that an increasing number of hotels now welcome pets. But if you prefer to rent entire homes with additional amenities not found in hotels, you might be surprised to learn that you can bring your pet along and stay at an Airbnb.
“Airbnb for pets” refers to rentals that allow you to bring your beloved animal companion. While not all Airbnb listings are pet-friendly, many do accommodate pets for a fee. By adhering to the rules and ensuring your pet’s behavior is well-mannered, you can find cost-effective rentals for you and your pet during your travels.
Can You Bring Your Dog to an Airbnb?
The pet-friendliness of Airbnb rentals is at the discretion of the host and varies from place to place. Only a small percentage, approximately 3%, of Airbnb listings are designated as pet-friendly. This limited availability should not deter you because it opens up opportunities to stay in more affordable accommodations with unique amenities compared to traditional hotels.
If your Airbnb agreement doesn’t explicitly state that pets are allowed, it’s best not to bring your pet along. In such cases, if the host discovers that you’ve brought your pet, they might impose additional charges or even ask you to vacate the property. It’s crucial to do your homework, ensure the Airbnb you select is indeed pet-friendly, and familiarize yourself with the associated fees and regulations.
How to Search for Pet-Friendly Airbnbs
Thankfully, Airbnb offers convenient ways to identify pet-friendly rentals. To filter for “pet-friendly” listings on Airbnb, follow the same process you would for any other rental. Start by specifying your destination and, under the “Guests” section, indicate the number of people and pets accompanying you.
The platform will then present you with a variety of listings that permit pets in close proximity to your chosen destination. However, Airbnb recommends reaching out to the host before finalizing your booking to confirm their pet policy and any applicable restrictions. Some hosts may welcome pets but impose limitations based on breed or size, which could potentially affect your plans.
Additionally, it’s essential to review the pet-related rules and constraints specified in pet-friendly Airbnb listings. For instance, some hosts may allow pets but restrict them from certain living spaces or furniture.
Consider whether any other pets reside in the rental property. Hosts are obliged to disclose whether there are existing animals on the premises to help guests make informed decisions regarding bringing their pets. Even if a listing permits pets, it’s advisable to have a direct conversation with the host to ensure their approval and guidelines are aligned. Having this information in written form can be beneficial in case any issues arise during your stay with your pet.
For those with service animals, it’s important to note that Airbnb acknowledges their presence. Service animals are not considered pets, and hosts cannot deny them entry or charge additional pet fees. However, guests should still ensure their service animals are well-behaved and house-trained. Service animals may not have unrestricted access to all areas of the rental or public spaces without being leashed.
Tips for Staying in a Pet-Friendly
Airbnb When traveling with your pet and staying in a pet-friendly Airbnb, it’s crucial to take a few considerations into account to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your furry companion:
- Budget for Additional Costs Be prepared for extra expenses when traveling with your pet. Airbnb pet fees are determined by the host, and they can range from $10 to $50 or more per night. Additionally, cleaning fees may be higher due to the need for more extensive cleaning to remove pet fur and odors. If your pet leaves any stains or damages the property, the host will charge you accordingly. Budgeting for these additional costs is advisable, and it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the associated fees to estimate the overall expenses for your stay.
- Familiarize Yourself with Pet Policies Airbnb does not have a universal pet policy. Instead, hosts are given the autonomy to decide whether pets are allowed in their rental units and to establish specific rules and guidelines for pet owners. When booking a pet-friendly Airbnb, always thoroughly review the host’s pet policy. These policies can encompass a range of rules, from cleaning up after your pet to restrictions on where pets are allowed within the rental. It’s vital to be aware of these regulations, as violating them can lead to negative reviews, fines, or even eviction during your stay.
- Ensure Your Pet’s Comfort Staying in a new environment can be stressful for your pet, particularly if they are creatures of habit who thrive on routines and familiar surroundings. If your dog exhibits anxiety, fear, or stress in new environments or around new people and animals, consider consulting a veterinarian before your trip. A veterinarian can diagnose and treat your dog’s anxiety, employing behavioral therapy and, if necessary, short- or long-term medication to alleviate anxiety-related behaviors.
In addition to addressing anxiety, create a comfortable sanctuary space for your pet within the Airbnb. Equipped with a crate or bed, this dedicated area will provide a sense of familiarity and security, helping your pet stay calm and relaxed in a potentially unfamiliar setting. Bringing your pet’s favorite bed and blankets can further enhance their comfort, as these items carry the scent of home, which can be reassuring.
- Bring Cleaning Supplies Even if your pet is house-trained, accidents can happen. For instance, stress or dietary changes can lead to gastrointestinal issues in dogs, resulting in unexpected indoor incidents. When traveling with your pet, it’s prudent to prepare for such occurrences, even if they are infrequent. Be sure to pack paper towels and enzymatic cleaners to effectively address any pet stains and mitigate potential charges associated with bringing your pet to an Airbnb.
Frequently Asked Questions What are Airbnb’s pet policies?
As of 2022, Airbnb does not have universal policies for pets. Instead, the platform allows hosts to make their own decisions regarding pets and establish specific rules and guidelines. Airbnb has introduced insurance policies for hosts to incentivize pet-friendly accommodations, which can cover pet-related damages and other liabilities that may have deterred hosts from welcoming pets.
What is the typical dog fee on Airbnb? Dog fees can range from $10 to $50 per night, depending on the location and the host’s policies. On average, the dog fee on Airbnb is around $20 per night. Keep in mind that pet fees may be higher due to cleaning requirements or charges for any damage caused by your pet during your stay.
What happens if my dog causes damage to an Airbnb property? Guests are typically responsible for cleaning and pet fees that cover minor pet-related issues. However, pets can sometimes scratch furniture or create stains that are not adequately addressed by regular pet and cleaning fees. Many hosts who allow pets rely on Airbnb’s protection plan, AirCover, to address damages caused by pets.
If your dog causes damage to the property, you may incur additional charges. Airbnb, however, does not charge guests without prior notice, and you have the option to appeal the decision.
Do other vacation rentals permit dogs? Many vacation rental platforms, including VRBO, offer accommodations that allow dogs. However, pet policies are ultimately determined by individual hosts. Some hosts are open to accommodating pets for an additional fee, while others may not permit pets. In addition to vacation rentals, there are pet-friendly hotels available, offering various options for travelers with pets.
In conclusion
traveling with your pet is now more accessible than ever. When booking an Airbnb stay, it’s crucial to review the host’s pet policy carefully. Furthermore, when traveling with your pet, be aware that they may experience anxiety in a new environment. Fortunately, there are numerous solutions for addressing anxiety in dogs. Reach out to a veterinarian to explore options for treating your pet’s anxiety and making your stay in a pet-friendly Airbnb more enjoyable and stress-free.