Travelling with your dog can be a rewarding experience as it allows you to explore new destinations together while keeping the family intact.
However, staying in dog-friendly accommodations requires adherence to certain unwritten rules to ensure that your stay is enjoyable and stress-free for you, your pet, and your hosts.
What Does Dog-Friendly Accommodation Mean?
Dog-friendly accommodations are generally equipped to meet the needs of your pet. They might offer additional features such as secure fencing, doggy doors, and specialised bedding.
But mostly, they are an accommodation option where the host allows you to bring your dog to accompany you during your stay.
To avoid any surprises upon arrival, it’s essential to verify the specifics such as size limitations, the number of dogs allowed in the home, and any additional fees that might apply. A pet policy may vary significantly between different accommodations.
Facilities might also provide extras like dog bowls, dog treats, and waste bags, enhancing your accommodation experience.
Before booking, check for nearby amenities like dog parks, dog-friendly beaches or trails, as these can further contribute to the overall enjoyment during the trip for both owner and four-legged friend.
Tips to Prepare for Your Stay
Preparation is key when staying in any accommodation, more so in a pet-friendly one.
- Ensure your dog is well-groomed and that their vaccinations are up to date to avoid any health issues during your stay.
- Pack essentials such as food, water, toys, and a leash. Remember to bring along any bedding or blankets that will help your dog feel at home in the new environment.
- It’s also wise to acclimate your pet to the rules of the accommodation. If the property requires dogs to be leashed in certain areas or restricts them from entering specific spaces like swimming pools or dining areas, make sure your dog is trained to adhere to these rules.
Such preparation not only respects the property’s policies but also minimises the risk of damage or disturbances caused by unmonitored pets.
Browse Our Dog-Friendly Accommodation Options
The Do’s of Dog-Friendly Stays
- Do respect the property and its surroundings. Keeping your pet under control and cleaning up after them is fundamental.
- Always dispose of waste properly and avoid areas where pets are not allowed.
- Attentive supervision ensures that your pet does not disturb other guests or wildlife, maintaining a peaceful environment for everyone.
- Do interact with other pet owners responsibly. Dog-friendly accommodations often attract like-minded travellers who appreciate the company of pets. This can be an excellent opportunity for socialising; however, always monitor these interactions to prevent any aggressive behaviour.
- Respect other guests’ space and privacy, and ensure your dog does not become a nuisance.
The Don’ts of Dog-Friendly Stays
- Don’t leave your pet unattended. Even the most well-behaved pets can act unpredictably in a new environment.
If the accommodation allows unsupervised pets, ensure they are secure and comfortable in your absence.
Provide necessary contact information to the management in case your pet needs assistance while you are away. - Don’t ignore the accommodation’s rules and don’t make assumptions. Each place has its own set of guidelines that need to be followed for the safety and comfort of all guests.
For instance, some may have specific off-leash areas while others require leashes at all times. Ignoring these rules can not only inconvenience others but also lead to fines or expulsion from the property.
Best Practices for a Memorable Stay
Always leave a positive impression by adhering to the check-out times and leaving the property in good condition, even if you are being charged an additional cleaning fee for pets.
This increases the likelihood of the property remaining pet-friendly and available for future visits. Showing gratitude through reviews and feedback also supports businesses that go the extra mile to accommodate pets.
Staying in dog-friendly accommodations can make travelling with your pet a breeze, provided you adhere to these codes of conduct.
Dog-friendly accommodations like those offered by Margaret River Properties are a wonderful resource for pet owners needing an escape, and with responsible use, they can continue to flourish and remain accessible to all pet lovers.
