Dog Friendly Hotels and Motels
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Even so, the dog friendly motel you were lucky enough to find would often make you put your beloved pooch outside, usually at the far end of the parking lot, in a small kennel with a dog house and nothing else. For dogs used to being kept indoors with their owners, it was a bad experience and heartbreaking for the owner and any kids in the family.
Times Have Changed!
Nowadays, if you search for dog friendly hotels or dog friendly motels on the internet, you will find quite a few. Many are well known hotel and motel chains. And if you can afford it, the ritzy hotels will treat your pooch like royalty! Pet spas, pet sitters, pet walkers, and gourmet pet chefs are there for the asking (or should I say for the "billing".) In addition, your internet search for dog friendly hotels or motels will also produce numerous links (ok, thousands of links) to sites which exist solely to help you and your pet find a hotel or motel in or near your desired destination! If you think I'm kidding, use the google search bar on this page and you will see how many there are.
There are also many directories available which list hotels and other vacation areas which welcome your canine traveling companion.
What to Expect at Dog Friendly Hotels and Motels
Just because it's a dog friendly hotel, motel or campground, don't assume that you and your pal can do whatever you want or go wherever you want together. Some places may limit the areas where Spot is allowed and almost all hotels, motels and other places will expect you to be in control of your dog at all times and for your dog to be.... well behaved.What does this mean?
- Your dog needs to be on a leash when out of the room. Neither you nor the hotel wants a potential lawsuit if your dog gets frightened, confused or protective and then nips or outright bites someone.
- Your dog will be expected to be housebroken and to take potty breaks in designated areas or, if not designated, to areas away from where other guests walk. Depending on the location, you may also be expected to scoop any poop.
- Your dog will be expected to not get defensive or aggressive around strange people or around other people's pets.. If your dog gets aggressive or too protective, others may feel unsafe and complain which could result in you being asked to check out. Unless you are rich or famous, even a dog friendly hotel is not going to put you and your pet above the comfort and security of other guests.
- Your dog should not bark excessively. An occaisonal bark will be tolerated; however, if Fido is a barker by nature, people will complain and you don't want that. It could lead to you having to find other accomodations.
Another thing to remember!
Many people and pets, DO NOT react well to the unexpected. If you have to leave Fido in your room alone for a little while (not a recommended thing to do), make sure to leave a note on your door so the maid will know the dog is in there!
