Let’s cut to the chase: dog travel is a billion-dollar industry, and some hotels are still treating our furry friends like second-class citizens. Seriously? Do you even know what you’re missing out on? According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), pet owners spent a whopping $1.22 billion on pet services, including travel-related expenses. That’s billion with a “B.” So, let’s talk about why your hotel should actually be dog-friendly instead of just pretending to be.
Repeat business: because loyalty matters
Pet owners are a fiercely loyal bunch. Once they find a hotel that genuinely welcomes their pups, they’re not just coming back—they’re bringing their friends too. And by friends, we mean other pet owners who are just as tired of being treated like second-class citizens. Ever heard of repeat business? It’s a thing. Look it up.
Higher spending: we love to spoil our pooches
You think pet owners won’t spend on amenities? Think again. We’re talking room upgrades, pet-sitting services, grooming, and even fancy pet meals. We don’t just love our pets—we pamper them. So, go ahead and offer those extras. We’ll happily pay.
Positive reviews: social media loves a good pet pic
Satisfied pet owners leave glowing reviews and flood social media with cute pet pics from their travels. Free advertising, anyone? And let’s face it, your hotel could use a bit of positive buzz. Word of mouth in the pet community is like wildfire—once it catches, it spreads fast.
Extended stays: we make it worth your while
Families traveling with pets tend to stay longer. Why? Because they need a place that feels like home. Give us that, and we’ll extend our stay, filling your rooms for longer periods. Trust us, your bottom line will thank you.
Off-season traffic: Fido fills rooms year-round
Pet-friendly hotels attract guests even during off-peak seasons. Pet owners plan vacations around their pets’ needs, which means we’re looking for getaways all year round. While other hotels are struggling to fill rooms, yours could be thriving.
Wider market reach: tap into a broader audience
By being genuinely pet-friendly, you can tap into a wider market segment. Solo travelers, couples, families—everyone’s bringing their pets along these days. Ignore this trend, and you’re missing out on a lucrative and growing segment of travelers.
When “dog-friendly” hotels are actually dog-hating havens
We’ve all been there: you book a hotel that claims to be “dog-friendly,” only to discover it’s more like “dog-tolerant-if-you-must.” Here’s how to spot those imposters before Fido and you have to make a hasty exit.
- The “dog welcome kit” is a joke When you check in, you receive a “dog welcome kit” that’s nothing more than a single poop bag and a sad, stale treat. Come on, Sparky deserves better than this Dollar Store special!
- The pet fee is outrageous You knew there’d be a pet fee, but you didn’t expect it to rival your nightly rate. If you’re paying more for Fido to stay than for yourself, it’s a red flag. Are they charging extra for his fur to grace their precious carpet?
- The designated “pet area” is a dump The hotel proudly boasts a designated pet area, which turns out to be a patch of dirt next to the dumpster. Fido looks at you like, “Really? You expect me to do my business here?”
- Restricted areas are everywhere Everywhere you turn, there are signs: “No pets beyond this point,” “Pets not allowed here,” “Pets prohibited.” It seems the only place your dog is welcome is the room, and even there, you sense they’re judging you.
- The stairs are your only option “Oh, we don’t allow pets in the elevator.” So you’re left lugging your suitcase, dog crate, and a confused pooch up six flights of stairs. Suddenly, you’re regretting all those times you skipped leg day at the gym.
- The “pet-friendly” room is a broom closet You open the door to your “pet-friendly” room and find it’s barely big enough for your suitcase, let alone a bed and a dog. It’s like they converted an old janitor’s closet and thought, “This will do for the pets and their humans.”
- Housekeeping panic Housekeeping avoids your room like it’s quarantined. When they do venture in, they act like your dog is a wild beast, even if he’s a three-pound Chihuahua named Mr. Snuggles.
- The side-eye from staff From the front desk to the bellhop, everyone gives you and your furry friend the side-eye, as if they’re all silently judging your life choices. “Oh, you brought a dog,” their eyes say, “how quaint.”
- Zero amenities You ask about pet amenities and get blank stares. “We have… water bowls?” Great. Next time, they’ll be offering air and calling it a luxury.
- The checkout guilt trip Finally, as you check out, you’re hit with a litany of supposed “damages” your dog caused, including phantom scratches and imaginary fur clumps. They practically accuse your dog of plotting to redecorate the place.
Conclusion: step up your game
So, dear hotels, get your act together. Dog travel is not a fad; it’s big business. Ignoring this market means missing out on a golden opportunity. Invest in real pet-friendly amenities and services, and watch your revenue soar.
And to the hotels still charging outrageous pet fees, offering sad, stale treats, and designating pet areas next to dumpsters: it’s time to step up your game. Because Fido and his family are worth it.
Remember, we’re not just looking for a place to stay. We’re looking for a place that welcomes our entire family—four-legged members included. Get it right, and you’ll see just how rewarding the pet-friendly business can be.
