How to Make Your Vacation Rental Pet-friendly: Tips for Hosts

For many travelers, pets are more than just companions; they're part of the family. So, what do they want when they go on vacation? To bring their furry friends along! But here's the thing: only a small percentage of vacation rentals are truly pet-friendly.

As a property owner, tapping into this rapidly growing market is a smart move that can increase your bookings and profits. However, making your vacation rental pet-friendly isn't just about slapping on a "Pets Allowed" label. It requires thoughtful planning to ensure your property caters to both human and non-human guests. In this article, we'll share our top tips to get you started!

Tips for Creating a Pet-friendly Short-term Rental

1. Design a Pet-friendly Space

Designing pet-friendly vacation rentals is all about balancing functionality and comfort. Start by evaluating your property's layout to see if it's pet-approved:

• Outdoor space: If your property has a yard, it could be a huge selling point for pet owners. Ensure it's fenced to prevent pets from wandering off.
• Flooring: Choose durable flooring like tile, vinyl, or laminate that can withstand claws and accidents better than carpet.
• Designated areas: Set aside specific areas for pets to eat, play, and sleep to keep things organized for your guests.

2. Pet-proof Your Property for Safety

Just as you would child-proof a home, pet-proofing ensures that both the animals and your property stay safe:

• Secure hazardous items: Keep cleaning supplies, chemicals, and sharp objects out of reach.
• Hide electrical cords: Curious pets may chew on exposed wires, so ensure they are tucked away.
• Remove toxic plants: If you have houseplants, verify that they aren't harmful to pets if ingested.
• Install secure fencing: For outdoor spaces, ensure your fencing is high enough and has no gaps or weak spots.

3. Provide Pet-friendly Amenities

Going the extra mile with pet-friendly amenities can make your rental stand out and ensure that guests—and their pets—feel right at home. Offer:

• Water and food bowls: These are basic but appreciated essentials.
• Pet bed: A soft bed for dogs or cats to relax in.
• Toys: A chew toy or scratching post can help pets burn off energy while indoors.
• Waste bags: Encourages guests to clean up after their pets during outdoor activities.

Pet-friendly vacation rentals

4. Establish a Clear Pet Policy

Being a pet-friendly host doesn't mean being lax on rules. Establish clear guidelines to ensure your rental remains in great shape and your guests have an enjoyable stay:

• Breed and size limits: If you're concerned about larger breeds or particular types of pets, specify them in your listing description.
• Pet behavior expectations: Inform guests that only well-behaved, house-trained pets are allowed. You can also dictate in which areas they can roam freely or ask that pets not be left unattended in the rental for long periods.
• Pet fees: Consider adding a pet fee for deep cleaning services or premium insurance packages. You can even ask pet owners for a refundable pet deposit that covers potential damage.

5. Offer a Pet-friendly Welcome Basket

A thoughtful way to impress pet owners is by providing a pet-friendly welcome basket. Just like a bottle of wine or snacks for human guests, pets can enjoy their own welcome gifts. These could include:

• Treats: A small bag of dog or cat treats.
• Toys: A chew toy or ball for dogs or a feather toy for cats.
• Practical items: Extra waste bags, a spare leash, or a portable water bowl.

6. Keep Cleaning and Maintenance in Mind

Pets inevitably add to the cleaning workload, so it's important to have a system that allows for quick, efficient turnovers between stays. There are two ways you can go about this:

• Cleaning yourself: If you want to cut on cleaning fees, you can always clean your pet-friendly rentals yourself. Invest in the right tools and equipment to keep your space in top shape, such as a powerful vacuum to remove pet hair or odor-neutralizing sprays for a fresh atmosphere.
• Hiring professional cleaners: For a more professional finish, we recommend hiring a professional cleaning staff with the knowledge and proper equipment to sanitize your space. You can even charge your guests a reasonable cleaning fee to account for the extra charges.

Additionally, schedule regular maintenance checks to look for any signs of damage caused by pets, such as scratches or stains.

Pet-friendly rentals

7. Market Your Pet-friendly Status

Once your property is pet-friendly, it's time to market it to reach your target audience. Highlighting your pet-friendly features in your listing can attract more bookings:

• Use keywords: Include terms like "pet-friendly" or "dog-friendly" in your listing title and description.
• Feature photos: Show off your pet-friendly amenities, such as a cozy pet bed, fenced outdoor space, or bowls ready for use.
• Reviews: Ask past guests (especially those with pets) to leave positive reviews to boost your credibility as a pet-friendly rental.

8. Provide Pet Owners With Useful Information

Going the extra mile to provide pet owners with useful information can make their stay more convenient and enjoyable. You can create a digital guidebook or include information in your house manual with everything they'll need during their stay:

• Local pet-friendly spots: Offer a list of nearby parks, walking trails, and pet-friendly cafes or restaurants.
• Veterinary services: Provide contact information for local veterinarians or emergency pet clinics in case health issues arise.
• Pet regulations: Inform guests about any local regulations or leash laws they must follow while in your area.
• Grooming services: If available, include details about local grooming services or pet stores where guests can purchase supplies.

Pet-friendly cabins

Pet-friendly Vacation Rentals: Key Takeaway

Making your vacation rental pet-friendly is a rewarding investment that can open your property to a wide market. Pet owners want a rental that not only tolerates pets but also welcomes them. By designing a pet-friendly space, maintaining cleanliness, and adding thoughtful touches, you can truly make an impression.

With Houfy's direct booking solution, you can easily market your pet-friendly rental, communicate directly with guests, and avoid the fees that often come with traditional booking platforms. Ready to welcome your next four-legged guest? Let Houfy help you make it happen!