The essentials
- It’s not for everyone — Some rental properties may not be conducive to allowing pets, and that’s okay!
- It doesn’t have to be a hassle — If you’re prepared, integrating pets into your rental strategy can be seamless.
- There’s no shortage of renters — Over ¾ of American pet owners travel with their pets and are looking for pet-friendly rental options right now.
1. More revenue
In short, you’ll likely make more money if you allow pets in your rental. Why? For a few reasons. First, you’ll open your property to more people, which should show an inevitable uptick in bookings. But the biggest benefit to welcoming pets is that you can charge more or include greater fees for the luxury of it.
Try this exercise: Go to a vacation booking site and compare comparable properties in the same area. The only significant difference between the two should be that one allows pets and the other doesn’t. How often is the pet-friendly place booked, and for what rate? You’ll often find that the rental with greater flexibility around pets sees greater bookings despite usually having higher nightly rates or fees.
2. Attracting more responsible guests
This is more an observation than conclusive fact, but pet owners are often responsible guests. Likely due to the sheer weight of owning and caring for another living being, pet parents may respect your property more. Remember that this isn’t a guarantee; even the most doting pet parent can still have a pup or cat that likes to scratch or chew at furniture.
3. Growing your reputation
Word of mouth is as strong a recommendation as reviews! The more inclusive your property is for pets, the better. Pet owners will likely recommend your rental to friends and family, as well as on social media, leading to more guests.
4. Widening your guest pool
The more restrictions you have on your property, the smaller your pool of potential renters will become. With all the options for rentals out there, your guests could go anywhere so why should they rent with you? By welcoming pets—and going the extra mile by making it a pet-inclusive property—you’re broadening your horizons and helping your chances of increased bookings.
5. Boost off-season
Some rentals at the beach or mountains may be ideal for renters during certain seasons, but allowing pets can increase the likelihood of people coming during the off-season. Plus, by recommending activities and offering insights and perks, you can help them make better choices for enjoying the off-season, which makes your property a better choice.
Considerations for allowing pets with your short-term rental
Allowing pets into your rental isn’t always easy or without issue, but going into it understanding the considerations can help you make the best possible decision for your investment.
- Dog bites. Some dogs may bite other people or animals whether that be your guests pet or a neighbor’s pet that jumps the fence.
- Damage. It’s inevitable that a decoration will get knocked over or a chair leg chewed. Have a plan in place like a pet deposit.
- Pests. Where pets go, so too do bugs. From ticks to fleas, your property can easily become infested if not managed properly.
- Barking. Dogs bark to communicate and some can be very chatty. Be aware of any local noise ordinances or laws regarding sound levels.
- Service animals. Legally, service animals have to allow unrestricted access to their owner meaning you can’t have stipulations on them that way you might for a house pet.
- Cleaning. Pets shed and make a mess, but that’s why we love them. Be aware of extra cleaning that may be necessary.
- Allergies. Allowing pets can inevitably discourage those with pet allergies from renting from you.
It does take extra work as a property owner to welcome pet’s into your rental, but the benefits often outweigh any challenges you may face.
Frequently asked questions
Should you allow pets in your vacation rental?
Pet-friendly rentals are in high demand and will only open your booking potential, but the choice is personal based on your goals.
Should people take their pets on vacation?
If they’re headed to a pet-friendly spot, why not? It’s always great to vacation with your family’s best friend!
Are there any restrictions on bringing pets when renting a vacation home?
In many cases, yes. Rental agreements should be where these restrictions live.
Can you leave your pet unattended at a vacation rental?
Yes. Some property owners have stipulations of where pets should be when left alone (a certain room, crate, etc.), but that choice is left to the property owner. Often, owners won’t have any directives for leaving pets unattended, but know that a lonely pet can cause damage that renters will be responsible for.
