As a short-term rental host, creating pet-friendly vacation rentals might seem like another checkbox on an already long to-do list. But for many travelers, including pets in their vacation plans isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Imagine the joy of a family arriving at your property with their beloved pooch, excited to find a place where their furry friend is just as welcome.

However, creating a dog-friendly vacation rental goes beyond simply allowing pets. It’s about crafting an environment where both guests and their pets can feel comfortable and at ease. So, how do you transform your property into a pet paradise? Let’s find out!

Is it worth making your short-term rental pet-friendly?

Opening the doors of your short-term rental to furry friends comes with both perks and drawbacks. It’s essential to weigh these carefully to ensure the decision aligns with your goals and resources:

Pros:

• Increased bookings: Pet owners often struggle to find suitable accommodation, so offering a pet-friendly rental can attract a broader range of guests.
• Higher rates: Most pet owners are willing to pay a premium for bringing their furry babies along.
• Positive guest reviews: By catering to pet owners, you can earn glowing reviews from guests who appreciate your extra mile to make their pets feel welcome.

Cons:

• Damage potential: Pets, especially dogs, can sometimes cause wear and tear or accidents, necessitating more frequent maintenance.
• Additional cleaning: Pets can shed hair and create odors that require thorough cleaning between guests.
• Increased insurance costs: You might face higher insurance rates or need additional coverage to handle potential pet-related damages.

How to make your vacation rental pet-friendly

1. Design a pet-friendly space

Begin by designing your space with pets in mind:

• Opt for durable flooring: Choose vinyl, tile, or hardwood, which are easy to clean and can handle occasional pet messes.
• Avoid carpets: Carpets tend to trap pet hair and odors, making them harder to maintain.
• Select pet-friendly furniture: Look for durable, easy-to-clean materials like leather or faux leather. Slipcovers can be an excellent option for fabric couches.
• Use low-pile rugs: These are less likely to trap hair and more resistant to wear and tear.

2. Designate pet zones & ensure safety

Creating specific pet-friendly zones while ensuring overall safety is key to avoiding damage and keeping pets comfortable. Here’s what you can do:

• Create pet areas: Set up a dedicated spot with a pet bed, toys, and food bowls.
• Pet-proof your vacation home: Keep harmful items like cleaning supplies and electrical cords out of reach.
• Secure trash bins: Ensure they’re pet-proof to prevent accidents or messes.
• Remove toxic plants: Some common houseplants can be harmful to animals, so opt for pet-safe varieties.
• Using baby gates: These can help keep pets out of restricted areas, like the kitchen or bedrooms.
  

3. Optimize outdoor spaces

Pets, especially dogs, love to run and play, so having a well-designed outdoor area can be a major selling point for your rental. We recommend:

• Secure fencing: Ensure that the yard is safely enclosed so pets can roam freely without the risk of escape.
• Pet waste stations: Provide waste bags and a designated disposal area to encourage guests to clean up after their pets.
• Pet-friendly landscaping: Avoid toxic plants and choose durable grass or artificial turf that can withstand pet activity.
• Shaded areas: Offer shaded spots where pets can rest and stay cool on hot days.

4. Offer pet-friendly amenities

Think of amenities that would make a guest’s stay easier and more enjoyable:

• Pet treats: A welcome basket with treats and toys can make pets feel right at home.
• Dog-friendly maps: Provide information about nearby parks, walking trails, and pet-friendly restaurants.
• Cleaning supplies: Offer pet-specific cleaning tools like lint rollers, stain removers, and vacuum cleaners.

5. Prepare for maintenance and cleaning

Pets can bring extra cleaning challenges, so it’s essential to plan ahead:

• Additional cleaning fees: Professional cleaning services are always recommended to deep clean and sanitize your vacation rentals after every stay. Consider charging a reasonable fee to cover extra cleaning that might be required after a pet-friendly stay.
• Cleaning yourself: If you clean your pet-friendly homes yourself, be prepared with the right tools to keep your space in top shape. Invest in a powerful vacuum to remove pet hair, use stain removers for carpets and couches, and odor-neutralizing sprays for a fresh home.
• Regular maintenance: Be ready to fix any wear and tear caused by pets, such as refinish wooden doors scratched by excited paws or replace chewed furniture legs.

6. Create a pet-friendly welcome basket

A personalized welcome basket for pets is a great way to make a memorable first impression. You can include:

• Treats: Add some healthy, pet-approved snacks.
• Toys: Include a chew toy or ball to keep pets entertained.
• Waste bags: Provide poop bags for convenience during walks.
• A pet towel: Useful for cleaning muddy paws after outdoor adventures.
• Pet-safe cleaning wipes: Handy for quick cleanups of paws or fur.

7. Establish a clear pet policy

A well-defined pet policy helps set expectations and avoids any confusion down the road. Your policy should outline:

• Pet limits: Specify the number, type, and size of pets allowed.
• Behavior expectations: Include guidelines on where pets are allowed in the house and how they should be managed.
• Fees and deposits: Clearly state any additional costs associated with bringing pets, such as a pet deposit, insurance, or cleaning fee.

8. Provide information to pet owners

To go above and beyond, offer your guests helpful resources specific to their pets, such as:

• Local pet services: Provide a list of nearby veterinarians, pet groomers, and pet stores.
• Pet-friendly attractions: Highlight parks, beaches, or trails where pets are welcome.
• Emergency contacts: Include details for local pet emergency services or after-hours vets.

9. Market your pet-friendly rental

Now that your property is fully pet-ready, it’s time to show it off! If you want to attract pet owners, you’ll need to:

• Use great photos: Include images of pet-friendly areas like the yard or cozy pet corners.
• Encourage guest reviews: Ask past guests to leave reviews, especially if they traveled with pets, to boost credibility.
• Highlight features and amenities: What sets your pet-friendly vacation rental apart? Write it down in your listing description.

Pet-friendly rentals: the bottom line

Remember, happy pets lead to happy guests. By focusing on the needs of both pets and their owners, you’re setting your rental apart from the competition. And with a well-prepared, pet-friendly rental, you’ll attract more bookings and create a space where everyone feels at home. Hopefully, these tips will help you transform your vacation rental into a pet-friendly oasis.

To make managing your pet-friendly rentals a breeze, Hosthub has your back. As a PMS and channel manager, it simplifies rental operations so you can focus on welcoming guests with wagging tails. Manage bookings, communicate with pet owners efficiently, and turn your property into a sought-after destination. Start a free trial or book a demo today!