How to search for pet friendly accommodation

If your dog is part of the family, you probably will want to take him along next time you go on a holiday. After all, your dog probably needs a holiday as much as you do. One of the major problems when travelling with your pet is accommodation. While many places cater to pet-owners, others might be reluctant to accept animals. So how exactly do you go about finding hotels that take pets?

Use an online database

Hotels for dogs
Many online databases, such as PetFriendlyHolidays.com or PetFriendlyHotels.com allow you to enter your destination city for a list of hotels where your dog is welcome. PetFriendlyHotels.com covers all Europe. Listings will often point out what facilities are available for dog owners, such as as areas to walk the dog, as well as facilities for the humans in tow.

Call the hotel in advance

Booking procedure and conditions
If you find a hotel listing that says “pets welcome,” it is best to call or write in advance. In many places, "dogs welcome" doesn't always mean "all dogs." For example, some hotels might only accept dogs who weight less than 10 kg. Some hotels might be dog friendly but they might not accept cats.
Other hotels also have a limit on the number of pets you can bring along (one per room or one per guest is a normal limitation). Find out if there are any fees or added restrictions to bring an animal along.

Think outside the box

Pet-friendly accommodation
While hotels have many restrictions for allowing pets, other forms of accommodation can turn out to be more pet friendly. Pet friendly accommodation can take the form of cabins, camp-grounds, flats or even RV rental in the countryside. Check small bed & breakfasts, resorts and lodges for their pet policy. In small canals and waterways such as the River Trent in Yorkshire or the Avon Canal in the South, you might be able to rent a boathouse that welcomes pet owners.

Take action

Tips for pet owners
Call the city’s tourism office and ask for a list of hotels that take dogs. Not all cities offer such facilities, but it is certainly worth a try. Check your local library for guidebooks on pet friendly accommodations. Final word
Books such as the Automobile Association’s “AA Pet Friendly Places to Stay” and “Pets Come Too” from the Official Tourist Board Guide are updated every 1-2 years and list hotels, self-catering accommodations, B&Bs and camping facilities that welcome pets.