How to Manage a Pet-Friendly Vacation Home

Allowing pets is a great way to increase bookings and attract more travelers to your vacation home. Did you know around 50% of renters own a pet? Pet-friendly vacation rentals are important because they allow vacationers to enjoy time off, without worrying about their pets. More now than ever before, travelers are choosing to stay in rentals that allow them to bring their furry companions along. Making your vacation home pet-friendly will not only boost your bookings and increase your income, but will make you more competitive with other rentals and even hotels by attracting more renters to your vacation home.

Charge higher rates

With a pet-friendly vacation rental, you can charge higher rates. The higher rate can help pay for the additional cleaning that will be needed, or simply as a back up in case any damage is caused by pets. In most cases, pets are well-behaved. These travelers know the difficulties of booking pet-friendly vacation homes and will be familiar with bringing their pets with them on vacation.

Specify Rules

Make it clear the types of pets allowed in your home. Outline rules relating to pets in your home such as type of animal, numbers of animal, and weight restrictions. Having a standard pet policy will help with potential misunderstandings with guests and set expectations and boundaries for their stay. Be sure to communicate with your guests that you’d prefer to keep animal activity within specified parameters.

Pet Amenities

Giving guests an upscale vacation experience can include giving their pets an upscale experience as well. Anything you decide to provide will likely go a long way. Stock up on chew toys, food bowls, waste bags, some yummy treats and maybe even a dog bed or cat scratching post. You will be more than likely to earn some wagging tails and bonus points.

Local Pet-Friendly Areas

Pet owners want to have as many options for their pets as they do for themselves. Research the areas nearby and market these areas for your benefit such as trails, beaches and dog parks.