Things I’ve learned about staying in hotels with dogs
It’s been a long, long trek getting from California to North Carolina. What started as a cross country move made of camping adventures quickly turned in to a tour of dog friendly hotels. And, let’s just say that’s been a learning experience…
The Brands I’ve Learned to Count On (I’ll list these in order of price and quality):
Motel 6: “Motel 6 has a pet limit of 2 pets per room, with a combined weight of 150 lbs. Also, some state and local municipalities forbid any pets other than service animals.” (motel6.com). While it wouldn’t be my first choice, after more than one break down in middle of nowhere “destinations,” I was put in a position to test the waters with this chain. Truthfully, I was pleasantly surprised. At an average rate of $60 per night without pet or parking fees, I found the chain to be cleaner than expected with basic amenities covered. I was able to leave the girls in the room when I needed to run errands (it was too hot to bring them along) and there was ample space to walk them when needed. Between the locations I stayed, the quality was consistent and I would be much more confident now booking rooms should I need to. The real downside to staying at these properties was questionable guest activity which could happen anywhere. Researching the area of any hotel you are looking to stay at may be helpful in that regard.
Red Roof Inn: Typically 20-30% higher in rates, this chain does sometimes charge nominal pet fees and the quality of the rooms was less consistent. Will they do the job in a pinch? Sure, but going forward I would likely choose a Motel 6 until further notice. “This pet policy applies for Red Roof Inn and Red Roof PLUS+ locations where one family pet not exceeding 80 pounds is permitted at no additional charge. The Red Collection locations permit one family pet not to exceed 40 pounds at no additional charge. Due to state laws, ordinances, or contract provisions, not all of our locations can accept pets.” (red roof.com) While I travel with two 60 pound ladies, the couple of stays I had at a Red Roof Inn allowed the exception.
La Quinta Inn and Suites: Many locations in this chain allow up to two pets in your room. Some do charge a $20 per pet per night fee so you may want to call ahead. Quality at this chain is very inconsistent though, as are specifics in their pet policies. Some hotels are brand spanking new and some leave you to not want to walk on the carpet without your shoes. Always read the reviews. Rates here range from $75 - $125 on average.
Kimpton: This is truly my favorite brand for pet friendly sleeps, as they don’t charge pet fees, tend to be in fun locations and have fun eclectic decor. They’re also clear to point out all breeds are welcome and if you’re a pittie parent like me, that speaks volumes. “At every Kimpton boutique hotel, we invite you to bring your furry, feathery or scaly family member — no matter their size, weight, or breed, all at no extra charge.” (kimpton.com) I’ve always had accommodating help when available to have a ground floor room near exits because Mimi can sometimes get overwhelmed with crowds (pro tip: if this sounds like your dog and you travel with a crate, put the crate on a large luggage cart and cover it with blankets if you can’t avoid crowds getting to and from your room).
Four Seasons: budgets aside, I don’t need to tell you I’d stay here every time if I could! “And because any passionate pet owner considers their furry friend a familiar comfort, Four Seasons does everything possible to welcome them with five-star service in some of the world’s most remarkable destinations.” (fourseasons.com) We’ve done two stays at two different Four Seasons properties and it goes without saying they were the kind doggie dreams are made of ;).
Whenever we arrive at a new place it takes about a day for Fi and Mimi to acclimate to their surroundings. This means I need to be a little strategic when leaving them in the room for a bit, and I always follow the same plan. Fi is crated in the room as she rarely if ever makes any noice in the crate and Mimi hangs out in the bathroom with a big cozy bed and some soothing music or the fan on to drown out hallway or neighbor noise she might react to (back to that acclimation period and my girl’s got some pipes!). When I do leave I let the hotel staff know I’ll be out for a bit if leaving the property and make sure they have my number on file in case of any noise making or an emergency.
And there you have it! A very condensed and basic summary of how I handle hotel stays with my girls when on the road. I’ll be sure to post more as I think of it in the hopes it makes traveling with your dog(s) a little less intimidating and more fun for the entire family!
Safe travels!
~Mindy