Who Let the Dogs Inn? Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains

Increasingly over the past few years, luxury hotel chains all over the U.S. have transformed into pet-friendly hotels. Why the rise in pet-friendly hotels? A survey released recently by Starwood Hotels & Resorts estimated that of 62 million dog owners in the U.S., an estimated 78% of them consider their dog to be an "equal member" of the family. It's not surprising, then, that most people feel guilty about leaving their dog at home while they go on a family vacation. Pet-friendly hotels are an attractive option for families who want to avoid the stress and expense of kenneling a dog or finding a sitter.

If you're a dog owner yourself, you probably have thought about your dog when you travel, bought him a present from the road, or even called home and tried to talk to him on the phone. And when you return, chances are you receive an excited and enthusiastic welcome.

For some, leaving the family dog at home isn't even an option. Nearly half of the dog owners in the survey took their family dog along on overnight trips, and about 40% of them stayed with their dog in pet-friendly hotels or motels. A majority of pet owners feel that upscale hotels either aren't thrilled about their canine guests or ban them altogether. But while traveling with a dog used to mean you were destined to stay at a cheap roadside pet-friendly motel or smuggle the dog into your room, times have definitely changed.

Increasingly, upscale chains are adopting new pet-friendly policies. Dogs are no longer simply tolerated; they are often indulged and given the red carpet treatment. With amenities such as turn-down service in custom beds, plush doggie robes, and even in-room doggie massages, dogs are welcomed as an important member of the family. Owners avoid the guilt of leaving their pets behind. Dogs who stay with their owners in pet-friendly hotels don't get depressed about being left behind, and may benefit from a change of scenery and more time spent with family.

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