Pet-Friendly Stays: Why Embracing Four-Legged Guests Makes Sense

Dogs are no longer just pets—they’re beloved family members. As more travellers seek to bring their furry companions along, pet-friendly accommodations have become a key differentiator in the hospitality industry.

Beyond offering a warm welcome, accommodating pets also supports accessibility by ensuring an inclusive experience for guests with assistance animals. Under the Australian Federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992, assistance animals are legally permitted in most areas, with exceptions such as operating theatres, hospital burns units, commercial kitchens, and restricted zoo sections.

For accommodation providers, embracing assistance animals isn’t just a legal obligation—it’s an opportunity to foster inclusivity. By creating a pet-welcoming environment, operators can attract a growing segment of travellers seeking pet-friendly stays.

A Global Shift in Travel Preferences

Pet-friendly travel is on the rise, with many travellers now planning their holidays around their pets. This shift has fueled demand for pet-friendly amenities, from cafés and parks to beaches and accommodations across all price ranges. However, the lack of pet-inclusive options remains a barrier for many pet owners, leading some to alter plans or forgo travel altogether.

This trend is not unique to Australia. In the UK, for example, concerns over pet care while travelling often cause stress or trip cancellations. Recognizing this demand, accommodation providers who offer pet-friendly options can broaden their customer base and foster guest loyalty.

The Business Case for Pet-Friendly Stays

According to Kerry Williams, founder of Accessible Accommodation, catering to pets isn’t just about meeting demand—it’s a smart business move.

“Pet-friendly accessible accommodation receives significantly more bookings than properties that don’t,” she explains.

This is particularly true for wheelchair users, who often have lap dogs, and for guests with mental health or sensory disabilities, where animals play a vital role in managing anxiety and daily challenges.

Enhancing the Guest Experience

To successfully welcome pets, accommodations must go beyond simply allowing them. Practical offerings such as pet bedding with removable covers, food and water bowls, and treats can make all the difference. Housekeeping expert Liz Lycette, Managing Director of L&A Housekeeping Management Consultants, recommends thoughtful preparation to ensure a seamless experience for both guests and their pets.

For assistance animals, additional considerations—such as allocating ground-floor rooms or rooms near outdoor areas—can enhance convenience. “Guests will frequently need to take their assistance dog outside. Recommending the nearest park is a helpful touch,” suggests Williams.

Clear Policies Ensure a Positive Experience for All

Welcoming pets also requires clear policies to maintain harmony between pet owners and other guests. A well-defined “doggy code of conduct” can set expectations around pet behaviour, size limits, and supervision, ensuring a pleasant stay for everyone.

“The hotel needs to establish a pet policy and communicate it clearly to guests before their arrival,” advises Lycette.

Common rules may include keeping pets on leashes in public areas, prohibiting them from being left unattended in rooms, and restricting access to certain spaces such as restaurants and bars.

By thoughtfully embracing pet-friendly travel, accommodation providers can unlock new revenue streams, boost guest satisfaction, and create a more inclusive hospitality experience.

“The rooms require a higher level of cleaning,” Ms. Lycette noted. “Hard flooring is preferable over carpet, as it simplifies maintenance. Additionally, all areas must be thoroughly sanitised and disinfected after check-out.”

Designating specific pet-friendly rooms can streamline operations and uphold cleanliness standards.

Laundry services also require special attention. Ms Lycette emphasized that bedding and linens from pet-friendly rooms should be washed separately to prevent fur and dander from affecting guests and staff with allergies.

Enhancing the pet-friendly experience can go beyond basic accommodations. Features like dog wash stations, grooming areas, or even pet pools can add extra convenience and appeal for pet owners.

While offering pet-friendly services can be a lucrative move, it also comes with unique challenges that require thoughtful planning and execution.