Tips For Staying In A Hotel With A Dog

There are many reasons a hotel may be the best choice for you and your dog. If you’re taking a long trip, it’s sometimes easier to bring your dog with you rather than board them. You might also need to transport your dog from one place to another and have to stop overnight. Or you just want to enjoy your vacation with the whole family, Fido included. With just a little bit of advance planning, staying in a hotel with a dog can be fun and stress-free. 

To ensure your trip with your furry friend runs smoothly, you’ll first need to find the right hotel and plan ahead. Here are our tips for staying in a hotel with a dog. 

Choosing a Pet-Friendly Hotel

The first step in planning your trip is to choose a pet-friendly hotel to stay at with your pooch. How do pet-friendly hotels work? While many hotels do not allow pets, pet-friendly hotels have rooms designed to accommodate them. They might also have extra amenities like pet beds or dog-friendly outdoor spaces nearby. Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting a hotel to stay in with your dog. 

Research the Hotel’s Pet Policy

Before you book your stay, check to make sure the hotel you are interested in allows pets. Keep in mind that you may have to pay a small extra pet fee in order to bring your dog to many hotels. The Hotel at the University of Maryland is a pet-friendly hotel with fees of $75 per dog, per night. 

Don’t try to sneak your dog into a hotel that doesn’t allow them. Not only will this be a stressful and uncomfortable experience, but you could also pay a huge surcharge if you get caught. 

Check for Nearby Pet-Friendly Attractions

You won’t want to keep your dog cooped up in the hotel room the entire trip, so make sure there are some dog-friendly attractions nearby. These could include dog parks and hiking trails, as well as restaurants with dog-friendly patios. The Hotel has plenty of excellent local trails and dog-friendly attractions nearby. 

Find a Hotel with Designated Pet Areas

Some pet-friendly hotels even have designated pet areas on-site, such as dog parks or indoor playrooms. This is a great bonus that makes traveling with your dog a little easier and gives them a chance to burn off some energy. 

Consider the Size of Your Pet

Different dog breeds have different needs, and you’ll want to keep this in mind when choosing a hotel. Large dog breeds will need more space to stretch out in the room. 

Ask About Pet Amenities

Some pet-friendly hotels offer additional amenities specifically for your dog. For example, The Hotel offers bowls and dog mats in your room, as well as a surprise welcome amenity at check-in. These small touches can make your stay much more fun and welcoming. 

Preparing for Your Stay

Before you leave for your trip, take a little extra time to make sure both you and your pooch are ready for this change of scenery. Here’s what to do when preparing for your stay: 

• Pack all necessary dog supplies. Make sure you have everything you need to make the hotel feel like home. This includes your dog’s food, collar and leash, favorite toys and any medications they take. Double-check that you have everything you need before taking off. 
• Prepare your pet’s documents. Have a copy of your pet’s medical records with you to prove they’ve been appropriately vaccinated. You may also want to keep a copy of their microchip information with you. 
• Plan for bathroom breaks. Make sure that you have doggy bags with you for easy cleaning. If you’re driving, look for places on the way to and from your hotel where you can easily take a bathroom break. 
• Be mindful of housekeeping times at the hotel. Dogs can be messy, so housekeeping is particularly important at pet-friendly hotels. Plan to take your dog out and about during housekeeping times, so staff can clean the room thoroughly. 
• Arrange for a sitter or dog walker if necessary. Don’t leave your dog alone in the hotel. Hire a sitter or dog walker if you need to take time away from your pooch during your trip. The Hotel has a list of dog walking and boarding services available in the College Park area. 
• Bring a favorite toy or blanket. Being away from home can be very stressful for dogs, no matter how well-trained they are. Bring your pet’s favorite toy or blanket to keep them calm and provide some comfort. 

During Your Stay

It’s important to be mindful of other guests and employees at the hotel when staying there with your dog. When you check in, start by asking when to expect housekeeping, so you can plan your schedule around that. 

While exploring the hotel with your dog, be considerate of other guests. Not everyone likes dogs, so be sure to give others a wide berth. Take extra time with your dog to get them calm and minimize barking. You’ll also want to take bathroom breaks and plenty of exercise outside the hotel to prevent indoor accidents. 

Book Your Dog-Friendly Stay in College Park, Maryland

If you’re visiting College Park, Maryland, the Hotel at the University of Maryland is the perfect choice for pet-friendly lodging. We’re happy to welcome you and your canine companion to our beautiful hotel, just steps from UMD’s campus. In addition to our pet-friendly rooms, we also have a gym, pool and spa on-site. Book your stay today!