There are plenty of pet-friendly hotels, some even for pet owners with dogs over 40 pounds, open to those traveling for business or vacation. (Courtesy photo)

Are you ready to take a getaway but the thought of leaving Fido or Fluffy behind is making you want to abandon your plans? Don’t despair. There are plenty of pet-friendly hotels, some even for pet owners with dogs over 40 pounds, open to those traveling for business or vacation.

Anyone who has traveled with pets understands the impact that animals can have on travel plans. Accommodations for your furry family member must be made in advance in order to travel with peace of mind. Don’t be that person who forgoes a vacation just because you cannot find accommodations for your pets – and leaving your fur baby behind is not an option!

Many hotels have pet-friendly rooms on lower floors near walking areas and some chains, such as Kimpton, offer dog beds, treats, food and water bowls, mats and more. Now many restaurants — where pet hair and food may seem like an unlikely combination — are open to allowing travelers dine with their pets. Animals may be allowed to sit in patio dining areas, and some restaurants even allow pets indoors.

Confirm the rules at hotels concerning pet stays. Recognize that you may have to pay fees when bringing pets into a hotel. Bring along your pet’s food and remember to keep them quiet and be considerate of others who may not be animal lovers.

Here are a few listings of pet-friendly hotel chains. If you don’t see one that matches your travel plans, a number of new hotel reservation and searching sites enable pet owners to find accommodations that accept pets. Check out BringFido.com, TakeYourPet.com and PetsWelcome.com to find places to play, stay, and eat with your dog.

Best Western
When Best Western calls itself a leader in pet-friendly travel, it’s not kidding. With more than 1,600 hotels that accommodate pets, this unfussy favorite keeps costs low and options open. Pet-friendly properties allow two dogs (up to 80 pounds each) in each room. Some hotels also allow other pets, including cats, birds, monkeys, and snakes. Best Western hotels charge a maximum of $20 per day, with a maximum per-week charge of $100. Some properties also charge a refundable damage deposit. Call ahead to make sure that the Best Western you find in your destination city accepts pets. Bestwestern.com

Kimpton Hotels
With over 30 boutique hotels in cities in the U.S., plus some outside the U.S., the chain puts pets right up there with people. They invite guests to bring their furry, feathery or scaly family member — no matter their size, weight, or breed, all at no extra charge. “If your pet fits through the door, we’ll welcome them in,” they say. Another perk is pets are allowed to join the nightly wine reception. At certain properties Kimpton has Directors of Pet Relations on hand (or paw) to welcome you and your pet(s). Check out Kimptonhotels.com for an extensive list of locations and amenities.

Loews Hotels
Loews loves pets and encourages travelers to bring them along for the stay saying, “We treat them like our own.” At check-in, pets receive treats, bowls and place mats. If you’ve flown and can’t haul all the stuff, the hotel is happy to provide pet beds, litter boxes, scratching posts, pet toys and more. The hotel accommodates up to two pets per room and offers gourmet room service for cats and dogs, with food developed by Executive Chefs. To learn more about this top-notch chain, visit loewshotels.com

Rather than curtailing vacation plans because of pets at home, investigate pet-friendly accommodations so you can take advantage of vacation days with your furry family members.

By Sonia Duggan • Associate Publisher • [email protected]

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