How Do I Make My Vacation Rental Pet Friendly?

By Robert Palmer

Are you considering making your vacation rental pet-friendly? If so, you’re making a smart decision.

With more and more travelers wanting to bring their furry friends along on their trips, catering to them can increase your bookings and revenue. However, it’s not just about allowing pets; you need to ensure your rental is safe, comfortable and enjoyable for both humans and animals. Here are some tips to make your vacation rental pet-friendly:

1. Create a Pet Policy

Before welcoming pets into your property, create a pet policy that outlines rules and expectations for both the owners and their pets. Include details such as the number of pets allowed, breed restrictions, size limitations, cleaning fees, damage deposits and any other relevant information.

2. Invest in Pet-Friendly Furniture

Pets can be hard on furniture with their shedding fur and claws.

Invest in furniture that is durable and easy to clean such as leather or microfiber sofas or chairs. You could also consider using slipcovers or throws that can be washed frequently.

3. Provide Pet Amenities

Make sure you have amenities available for pets such as food bowls, beds, toys, litter boxes (for cats), poop bags (for dogs), etc. This will make their stay much more comfortable.

4. Make Your Property Safe for Pets

Ensure there are no hazards in your property that could harm pets such as poisonous plants or chemicals within reach of animals. Cover electrical wires or cords to prevent chewing accidents.

5. Identify Local Pet-Friendly Attractions

Identify local pet-friendly restaurants, parks, beaches or other attractions that guests with pets can enjoy during their stay.

6. Hire Professional Cleaners

Even the best-behaved pets can leave behind messes that require professional cleaning services to remove odors and stains. Hire professional cleaners to do a deep clean after each pet guest departs to maintain the cleanliness of your property.

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can make your vacation rental more attractive to pet-owners and increase your bookings and revenue. However, it’s important to remember that welcoming pets requires additional effort on your part. By investing in pet-friendly amenities, furniture, safety measures and cleaning services, you can provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both pets and their owners.