Traveling With Pets - Where to Stay
By: April Lykins, Travel Advisor
If you don’t want to leave your four-legged friend at home but also don’t want to sacrifice your vacation, I have good news for you! Pet travel is becoming more common and travel destinations are stepping up to the plate by offering relaxing accommodations for you in addition to great amenities for your furry companions.
Before booking that pet-friendly trip, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends travelers make sure their pet:
Is comfortable and physically able to travel
Has up-to-date ID tags and microchips
Is allowed in the accommodations you have booked
Has a portable kennel to stay in if you need to leave them for a moment
Accommodations that allow pets can be found all over the United States. Let’s explore some of my favorites:
CAMPGROUNDS
t may not come as any surprise that campgrounds often let you bring your furry friend with you. Campgrounds often include wide open spaces, hiking trails, rivers, and many other doggy-friendly activities. Each campground will vary on its rules and regulations of pets that you can bring which is why it's a good idea to have a travel expert help you understand all the rules and fees before you pack up your pet.
Here are some notable pet-friendly campgrounds close to amazing destinations:
Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground in Orlando, Florida: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground welcomes two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $5 per night in campsites and $50 per night in cabins. Keep in mind pet-friendly cabins are limited. At check-in, pups will receive 'Pluto's Welcome Kit', which includes a mat, bowls, pet ID tag, poop bags, puppy pads, and a dog walking map. Proof of vaccinations is also required. Dogs are permitted on the Magical Express complimentary airport shuttle and Minnie Van as long as they remain in a carrier. Unfortunately, cats are not accepted at this time.
Camp Margaritaville RV Resort in Pigeon Forge, TN: The Lodge at Camp Margaritaville welcomes two pets up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $75 per stay. Both dogs and cats are allowed, but pets must be crated if left unattended in rooms. Additionally, there is a fenced dog park on the property.
Various other campgrounds offer pet options as well. Your travel advisor can assist you in finding pet-friendly accommodations close to the places you wish to visit and assist you with any rules and regulations to ensure you and your fur babies have a safe and spectacular adventure!
HOTELS
Say goodbye to roadside inns and the last room in the back! Hotels and resorts are stepping up their pet game. Throw your dog a bone and let them stay in style! There are so many resorts that are not only pet-friendly but actually cater to your perfect pooch. Each hotel and resort will differ on their requirements and many only allow pets during certain seasons. Your travel advisor will assist you with picking out the right stay for you and your pet!
Here are some notable pet-friendly hotels close to amazing destinations:
Boardwalk Beach Resort Panama City Beach, Florida: A beautiful beach-front location, Boardwalk Beach Resort Hotel welcomes two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $15 per night. Unfortunately, cats are not permitted at this time.
Margaritaville Beach House Key West, Florida: Margaritaville Beach House Key West welcomes two dogs up to 30 lbs for an additional fee of $75 per pet, per night. Dogs may not be left unattended in the rooms at any time and are not allowed on the shuttle. Dog beds and treats are available and there is a grassy area for pet relief on the property. Unfortunately, cats are not permitted at this time.
Dream Hollywood in Hollywood, California: Major pet spa vibes available here including a dream-branded pet bed, pupcake “cupcakes”, and even a miniature bath robe for your four-legged best friend! Dogs weighing less than 25 pounds are welcome in the pet-friendly rooms. Pets may not be left unattended at any time. There is a one-time, non-refundable fee of $125.00.
This is just a very small sample of the resorts and hotels that not only offer pet-friendly accommodations to sleep in but also provide extra special details for your canine best friend.
Contact your travel advisor for a resort near your favorite destination to help you secure the best vacation for your pet so you and your furry friend can get Going! on an adventure of a lifetime!