During our stay at Residence Inn by Marriott, we heard and saw several dogs of varying sizes, including guests with two dogs, usually one small and another larger. Although infrequent during the day, barking has not been an issue at night. We’ve observed pet owners cleaning up after the dogs and keeping them on a leash when outdoors. The presence of dogs has not been an issue for us longer-term guests.
In 2024, the hospitality industry saw a significant transformation, with a growing emphasis on pet-friendly accommodations. This shift is driven by an increasing number of travelers who consider their pets part of the family and wish to bring them along on their journeys. Pet-friendly hotels now offer a range of amenities and services to ensure both human and furry guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Rise of Pet-Friendly Hotels
The demand for pet-friendly hotels has been steadily increasing over the past decade. This trend has accelerated as more people adopt pets, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when companionship from animals became crucial for many. Hotels have recognized this growing market and are adapting their policies and facilities accordingly. In 2024, pet-friendly hotels are not just a niche but becoming mainstream.
Amenities and Services
Modern pet-friendly hotels offer a variety of amenities designed specifically for pets. These include:
- Pet Beds and Bowls: Many hotels provide comfortable pet beds and bowls for food and water in the room. This ensures that pets have a designated space and that their needs are met without guests having to bring their own supplies.
- Pet Menus: Some hotels have introduced specialized pet menus, offering gourmet meals for dogs and cats. These menus often include healthy and nutritious options catering to various dietary needs and preferences.
- Pet Spa Services: Many hotels now offer spa services such as grooming, massages, and even facials to pamper pets. These services help pets relax and enjoy their stay as much as their owners.
- Pet Sitting and Walking Services: Understanding that guests might want to explore the area without their pets, hotels provide pet sitting and walking services. Trained professionals ensure that pets are well cared for in the absence of their owners.
- Pet Play Areas: Outdoor play areas and dog parks within the hotel premises are becoming common. These spaces allow pets to exercise and socialize in a safe environment.
Policies and Considerations
While pet-friendly hotels are becoming more common, there are still essential policies and considerations to keep in mind:
- Size and Breed Restrictions: Some hotels may restrict the size or breed of pets allowed. It’s essential to check these policies before booking.
- Additional Fees: Many hotels charge additional fees for accommodating pets. These fees cover extra cleaning and maintenance required for pet-friendly rooms.
- Behavioral Expectations: Hotels expect pets to be well-behaved. Owners may be asked to sign agreements ensuring their pets will not cause damage or disturb other guests.
- Vaccination Requirements: Hotels may require proof of pet vaccination to ensure the safety and health of all guests.
Top Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains
Several hotel chains have become renowned for their pet-friendly policies and services in 2024:
- Kimpton Hotels: A pioneer in pet-friendly hospitality, Kimpton Hotels welcomes pets of all sizes and breeds without additional fees. They offer a range of pet amenities and even have a Directors of Pet Relations program at some locations.
- Aloft Hotels: Part of the Marriott International group, Aloft Hotels is known for its Arf (Animals R Fun) program. This program includes pet beds, bowls, and treats, ensuring a pleasant stay.
- Fairmont Hotels & Resorts: Fairmont Hotels offers luxurious pet-friendly services, including pet menus, grooming, and pet-sitting. They also provide information about local pet-friendly attractions and services.
- Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts: Known for their luxury, Four Seasons properties often welcome pets with open arms. They provide pet beds, bowls, and even pet-sitting services to ensure pets enjoy their stay.
- Loews Hotels: Loews Hotels has a dedicated Loews Loves Pets program, which includes pet room service menus, pet toys, bedding, and even pet-walking maps. They also offer pet-sitting and walking services.
Regional Variations
Pet-friendly accommodations vary by region, with some areas being more pet-centric than others:
- United States: The U.S. leads the way in pet-friendly hotels, with many chains and independent hotels offering extensive pet amenities. Cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco are particularly pet-friendly, with numerous parks, restaurants, and attractions welcoming pets.
- Europe: Europe is also highly pet-friendly, with many hotels in countries like France, Germany, and the UK offering pet amenities. In some cities, pets are welcome in restaurants and public transport, making travel with pets more convenient.
- Asia: Pet-friendly hotels are becoming more common, particularly in countries like Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. While not as widespread as in the West, the trend is growing, and more hotels are adapting to meet the needs of pet owners.
- Australia and New Zealand: These countries are known for their love of pets, and many hotels offer pet-friendly services. Coastal areas and national parks often have pet-friendly accommodations, making them ideal destinations for pet owners.
Conclusion
In 2024, pet-friendly hotels have evolved to cater to the growing demand from travelers who consider their pets part of the family. With a range of amenities and services designed to ensure a comfortable stay for pets and their owners, these hotels are setting new standards in hospitality. As the trend continues to grow, we can expect even more innovations and improvements in pet-friendly accommodations, making travel with pets easier and more enjoyable than ever before.
For more details on pet-friendly airline travel, please see our post from a few days ago here.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, July 17, 2014:
