Create a Dog Friendly Vacation Rental

Vacation rental owners who open their properties to pet-owning guests may find a competitive advantage. That's because pet-friendly vacation rental listings are still relatively rare, even though more and more travelers are bringing their furry friends along on vacation.

In fact, Airbnb has even added a filter specifically for pet-friendly listings. As a result, pet-friendly vacation rental owners may be able to command a premium price for their properties. And while there may be some additional work involved in accommodating pet-owning guests, the potential financial rewards may make it well worth the effort.

Earn More Income

It's typical, even normal, for pet owners to pay more when they bring their pets. I've even seen listings that specifically add an extra $50/night fee for guests with pets. At a minimum, the security deposit is increased.

Charging pet owners more money is a way to create additional revenue with minimal effort. As this is normal and expected, and the potential future guest has few options to choose from, you can earn extra income from not doing much.

Below I list a few things:

you can increase your nightly rate by $10-20 for guests with pets.

This reasonable amount will cover any potential damages and will not scare away potential customers.
you can also increase your security deposit by $200-300.

This may seem like a lot, but it will again cover any damages and will not be excessive for guests who are used to paying pet fees.
Offer additional services such as pet sitting or dog walking for an additional fee.

This is a great way to make some extra money and provide a service that your guests will appreciate. Implementing these simple changes can quickly increase your revenue without doing much extra work.

Increase Your Vacation Rental Occupancy

As any pet owner knows, our furry friends are part of the family. So it's no surprise that more people travel with their pets.

If you're not pet-friendly, you're missing out on a sizable chunk of the travel market. According to some estimates, as many as 40% of Americans own a pet, and 10% travel with their pets semi-regularly.

And with pet ownership on the rise, that number will only grow. Additionally, pet-friendly travelers often have difficulty finding suitable accommodations, as only 5% of Airbnb listings are pet-friendly. So if you're looking to attract more travelers, becoming pet-friendly is a great way to do it.

For many pet owners, leaving their furry friends behind when they travel can be difficult. While some people can take their pets with them on every trip, others only consider traveling with their animal companions if they will be gone for an extended period.

How to make your Vacation Rental Dog Friendly

If you're looking to make your vacation rental dog friendly, there are a few things you'll need to do:

First, be sure to include plenty of information about your property in your listing.
Mention whether or not there is a fenced-in yard, and include any other details that may be relevant to dog owners.
You should also provide a list of nearby parks and trails where dogs are welcome.
Stock your rental with some essential supplies for dog guests. This might include food and water bowls, waste bags, and toys.
Finally, it's always a good idea to leave a few treats out for four-legged visitors. By taking these simple steps, you can help make your vacation rental pet-friendly and welcoming for all.

Additional Tips for Dog Friendly Vacation Homes

First, consider using pet-friendly materials throughout your home. Hardwood floors, for example, can be easier on your dog's paws than carpeting.
Similarly, choosing furniture with smooth surfaces and rounded edges will help to prevent scratches and other damage.
You should also create designated areas for your dog to eat, sleep, and play. A food station in the kitchen and a cozy bed in the living room are just a few examples.
Finally, make sure that your home is properly secured against escape attempts.