Pets are more welcome than ever on vacation.
(Consumer Reports) - Wish you could take Fido or Fifi on your next vacation? According to Consumer Reports, that's getting easier to do. More and more hotels are willing to accommodate travelers' pets. But there's a lot you should know before booking your next trip.
The Hilton is just one of many hotel chains that are now catering to four-legged guests. At this one, pets get special treats and their very own pillow to lounge on.
Representative Julie Torres says, "they are just as much a part of the family as a child, or an uncle, or any other member of the family and we want them to be just as comfortable."
And pet-friendly hotels run the gamut from the Econo Lodge and Best Western to the Ritz-Carlton.
The price can differ a lot. Some rooms 25 dollars a night for your pet, others a lot more.
And there can be other hotel pet expenses, such as a refundable
100-dollar deposit, or you may be required to accept financial liability for any damage caused by your pets. And some, like the W, charge a 100-dollar cleaning fee.
It's really important to call ahead to the hotel you're staying at. Because while many chains are pet-friendly, not all hotels within that chain accept pets. So you need to call ahead and find out if there are any restrictions.
Some of those include weight, size, and breed restrictions.
If your dog doesn't meet the criteria to stay at a particular hotel, don't give up hope. All isn't lost. It always pays to call ahead. Explain that your dog has a wonderful disposition, wonderful temperament, and you never know, they might waive these restrictions.
And don't forget to ask if you need to bring proof of your pet's
up-to-date vaccinations.
When booking a room with a pet, check to see if you're allowed to leave the pet alone in the room or if your pet needs to be in a crate. Also ask about available amenities. Some hotels offer dog-sitting and walking, as well as pet massages. But, of course, check to see what the hotel charges for these extras.