Traveling with your pet in tow requires thoughtful preparation, especially when your travel plans include dogs and cats. Some often overlooked steps, such as ensuring you have a valid health certificate for your furry companion as many pet-friendly hotels and short-term rentals require this type of documentation, can often be forgotten when preparing for your next trip. Below we explore in detail the key steps to take.
How to Prepare for a Pet Friendly Airbnb
The key steps to prepare for travel to a pet friendly Airbnb are:
- Check the pet policy: Before booking an Airbnb, carefully review the listing's pet policy. Some hosts may have specific rules or restrictions regarding pets, such as size limits or additional fees. If possible, find an explicitly pet-friendly rental that provides bowls, beds, and maybe even some snacks; you'll feel much more comfortable knowing that your host has had other four-legged guests before!
- Communicate with the host: Reach out to the host before booking to discuss your plans to bring your pet. Clarify any questions you may have regarding the accommodations or specific pet-related amenities, like a fenced-in yard or a nearby park.
- Provide accurate information: Provide accurate details about your furry companion, including its size and demeanor. This information will help the host understand your needs better and make necessary arrangements to make your stay as stress-free as possible.
- Pack for your pet: Just like you pack a bag for yourself when you go on vacation, you'll need to pack for your dogs and cats as well. Having familiar items from home will help keep your pet comfortable and make them feel more at ease in a new environment. This might include things like their food and water bowls (if your host does not provide this), leash and collar, a few favorite toys, and any medications they need. If you're traveling by car, consider bringing a bed or blanket for them to lay on during the journey.
Some accommodations may charge an extra fee for pets. Please understand that extra cleaning and care is required to ensure that future guests are not impacted after your pets’ stay.
Staying in Your Pet Friendly Airbnb
To ensure a good stay at your Airbnb with your pets, follow these tips:
- Maintain cleanliness: If you have a dog, ensure it is clean and groomed before arriving at the Airbnb. For cats, shedding can also become a problem. Clean up after your pet both indoors and outdoors, disposing of waste responsibly. If your pet sheds excessively, use a brush or lint-roller to minimize hair on furniture or bedding.
- Respect the property: Take extra care to ensure that your pet does not cause any damage to the property. Avoid allowing your dog on furniture or beds if it's explicitly against the host's rules; you may even want to use blankets or towels to prevent any accidents or messes, as well as to avoid any additional fees post-checkout.
- Prepare your pet: Ensure nails of dogs and cats are trimmed and filed as well, free of sharp angles that can cause permanent damage to furniture. For cats, it's especially important to have a backup plan for those who frequently sharpen their claws on household objects. Consider portable scratching posts or favorite toys to redirect the cat’s attention.
- Supervise your pet: Keep a close eye on your pet at all times while inside the Airbnb. Remember that your furry friend may feel too unsure in their new environment to be left alone for extended periods of time.
- Exercise and bathroom breaks: Plan regular exercise and bathroom breaks for your dog. Research nearby parks, trails, or designated dog-friendly areas where you can take your dog for walks or play, and, of course, always follow local leash-laws and clean up after your dog!
- Keep your pet safe: This might mean using a crate or carrier when you're traveling, keeping them on a leash in public places, and making sure they don't have access to anything that could be harmful.
- Make sure your pet is comfortable: This might mean finding a quiet space for them to rest when they need a break, making sure they have access to plenty of water, and avoiding activities or experiences that might be stressful for them.
At the end of the day, it's their vacation too and they deserve some R&R! Pay attention to your pet's behavior and adjust your plans as needed to make sure they're happy and healthy.
Bottom Line
Traveling with your pet to a pet-friendly Airbnb requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Start by thoroughly checking the pet policy, communicating with the host, and providing accurate information about your pet. Pack familiar items to help your pet feel at home, and maintain cleanliness and respect for the property.
Keep a close eye on your pet, ensure regular exercise and bathroom breaks, and prioritize their comfort and safety. By following these steps, you can make your pet's vacation as relaxing and enjoyable as your own.
