Pet-Friendly Travel

Don't want to leave home without your favorite furry friend? You're not alone! In the last decade, the number of pet owners has increased to some 36-million households. According to Parade Magazine (March 28, 2004): "Every year, more than 10 million Americans include 4-footed family members in their travels. 80% of us take the dog, 15% carry a kitty, and the balance bring other pets."

To find pet-friendly properties on Inns.com, go to Advanced Search, enter your destination, then check the "pets" box to find accommodations that welcome pets.

Lodging guidelines for those traveling with pets: Innkeepers who welcome pets tend to have similar guidelines (although exceptions are frequent). Here are some of the most common:

1. Prior approval is essential, so that innkeepers can limit the numbers of pets in residence, and can interview you to determine if your pet is a good traveler.
2. Dogs are often the only pets welcomed; some innkeepers accept only small dogs (under 30 pounds).
3. Only one pet allowed per guest room; most guest rooms are kept pet-free so that allergic travelers won't have a problem, with a few rooms set aside to accommodate pets.
4. A maximum number of pets is allowed at any one time, usually between one and three at smaller properties.
5. Pets must be leashed when out of the guest rooms.
6. Pets cannot usually be left alone in guest rooms, and must be with their owners at all times. Some properties will allow cage-trained dogs to be left in guest rooms for short periods (i.e. during meals).
7. Due to health department restrictions, pets are generally not allowed in dining or breakfast rooms.
8. Pets must be washed and on flea medication prior to arrival, with proof of current rabies vaccinations.
9. Extra cleaning charges range from $10-25 daily.
10. Owners should bring pet bedding and dishes; no pets permitted on the beds or furniture. Protective covers advisable, "just in case." Loaner leashes, food, towels are usually available on request.
11. Guests must sign a statement of agreement to the inn's policies, accepting responsibility for any damage done by the pet, and to absolve the innkeepers of any liability if the pet is injured or causes any injury.

General travel guidelines: Before taking a major vacation with your pet, try a few shorter getaways to ensure that it's a positive experience for everyone. Once you've decided that your pet is a good traveler (and, just like humans, not all are), consider the following guidelines:

• Visit the veterinarian to ensure that your pet is in good health, with current vaccinations, grooming needs, and medications, and ask the doctor for travel advice. Bring copies of relevant medical records on your trip.
• For identification purposes, be sure to bring a photo of your pet, make sure identification tags are current, and consider having an ID microchip implanted (ask your veterinarian) or updated, if needed.
• Make sure your pet is comfortable with the leash or carrying device you'll be using when traveling.
• Pack food, treats, water, grooming aids, bedding, and clean-up tools as appropriate.
• Never leave your pet in a closed car. If you must leave it for short periods, make sure that two windows are open for airflow, and that there's no danger of your pet becoming overheated or escaping from the car