FOLIO
Dear Davi,
We are planning to get away, but without breaking the bank. Any tips for saving money when booking dog-friendly accommodations?
Frugal Francesca
Francesca,
These days, pet-friendly lodging is plentiful. On behalf of those who want to have fun without spending a ridiculous amount of money on fees, I did some digging and found some outstanding pet-friendly hotel chains that allow pets to stay for free.
Kimpton Hotels
Kimpton’s famous pet-friendly policy is quite reasonable: no extra charges, no weight limits and no limit on the number of pets per room. Pups are welcomed by name and warmly invited to nightly receptions—free treats for them, free drinks for you. Plus, a concierge is on paw to give a list of nearby pet-friendly spots. Additional perks, like cozy beds and dining bowls, are also provided to ensure pets enjoy their stay. FYI: This chain is not just dog-friendly, it’s whatever-you-have friendly, so bring your feathery and scaly friends, too!
Aloft Hotels
Aloft is an upscale boutique chain that will treat your pet like the important guest he or she is. Canines up to 40 pounds are greeted with toys and woof-alicious treats upon check-in, and rooms are stocked with dog beds and bowls, compliments of the ARF (Animals R Fun) program. Polices vary slightly by location, but you’ll never have to worry about paying any pet deposit or cleaning fee.
La Quinta Hotels
La Quinta is the most popular hotel brand among pet travelers. It has more than 700 pet-friendly locations from coast to coast, welcoming dogs and cats with no fees or deposits required. The mid-scale chain offers wag-worthy accommodations at an affordable price and what’s more, breakfast is free!
Red Roof Inn
Red Roof Inn takes pet-friendly to a new level—not only do pets stay for free, you get a 10 percent discount when you bring your pet. Though Red Roof doesn’t have posh amenities, the no-nonsense hotel chain has no weight or breed limit, and has devoted an entire social media page declaring their love of all things four-legged and furry.
There’s no question that pet travel is on the rise, and many hotel chains are wising up and rolling out the red carpet for four-legged family members. Not all pet-friendly hotels/motels are created equal, though. Pet policies vary widely among the franchises, and even if a hotel chain boasts dog-friendly digs, some individual hotels within the chain may impose pet fees or not allow pets because of local laws prohibiting such. When in doubt, call a hotel directly and determine its specific policy. Some hotels allow only dogs; some allow pets only under a certain weight, and some have a two-pet maximum. It’s also important to abide by house rules and follow proper pet etiquette to ensure you and your pet leave a pawsitive mark.
As you can see, there are quite a few options when it comes to finding a pet-friendly place to stay while traveling. In fact, it may be hard to make a final decision. Whatever choice you make, though, remember it’s about the journey, and comfort for you and your pet.
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Davi thinks that treats on pillows are among the finest things in life.
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