If you and your family are planning to take your dog on vacation, you’ll need to find a pet-friendly hotel. Last year, more than 15 million Americans traveled with their pets. Many hotel chains are starting to notice this rising trend and are responding accordingly. Some lucky dogs not only go on vacation, but they also get in-room massages, their own seasonal room service menu, and a welcome gift that they can chew on. Check out a few of our favorite pet-friendly hotel chains that welcome your dog.
The Ritz Carlton
The Ritz Carlton’s pet-friendly locations know how to pamper your pooch. Their Washington, D.C. location offers plush dog beds, dog bowls, and all-natural treats. They do charge a per night fee and a $250 USD non-refundable dog cleaning fee. Dogs less than 20 pounds are welcome and require advance registration. Your pet cannot be left unattended within the guestroom, and they must be fully trained and appropriately restrained at all times. The Ritz-Carlton also provides an extensive room service menu with three delicious choices for dessert—including liver “kisses.” For registration as well as a copy of the resort pet policy, contact the resort concierge.
Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
Are you and your pet looking for a lavish stay? If so, look no further than the luxurious Four Season hotel. Not all Four Seasons hotels and resorts accept pets, but those that do offer an experience your pet will never forget. The upscale brand offers small dogs and cats in-room amenities like beds, water bowls, and piddle pads. Concierges at pet-friendly locations also have plenty of helpful tips about local dog parks and additional pet-friendly activities. Most have weight restrictions of 15 to 25 pounds and they normally don’t charge extra for your fur friend. Additional pets may be permitted with prior approval from the management.
W Hotels
This luxury hotel pulls out all the stops for both human and pet guests. Their P.A.W. (Pets Are Welcome) Program offers guests a welcome packet with toys, treats, a specialized W Hotels pet tag, clean-up bags, and a list of available pet services. Pet-friendly rooms feature a custom pet bed, food and water bowls, and turndown treats. The room rate with a pet will include an additional fee above the room charge plus a non-refundable cleaning fee. W Hotels allow one pet per room at no more than 40 pounds. However, dogs exceeding the weight limit and pets other than dogs may be accepted into the hotel at the Hotel Management’s discretion.
As always, be sure to check your hotel’s pet policy before heading out on your family vacation. If one of these pet-friendly hotel chains isn’t available at your destination, simply call around to the independent hotels in the area and ask about their pet policy. Just make sure you have a plan in place before you leave home.