How to Make Your Vacation Rental Pet-Friendly

30 October 2025

Are you thinking about making your vacation rental more welcoming for pet owners? You're on the right track! With more travelers wanting to bring their furry friends along, turning your rental into a pet-friendly getaway can boost bookings and attract loyal guests.

But simply allowing pets is not enough—you need to create a space that's safe, comfortable, and inviting for both pets and their owners. In this guide, I'll walk you through the best ways to make your vacation rental truly pet-friendly.

Why Make Your Vacation Rental Pet-Friendly?

Before we dive into the how, let's talk about the why.

- Higher Demand – More than 70% of U.S. households own a pet, and many pet owners prefer to travel with their furry companions. By catering to them, you tap into a large, loyal market.
- Increased Bookings – Pet-friendly properties often get more bookings and fewer vacancies. Travelers are willing to pay extra for the privilege of bringing their pets along.
- Positive Reviews & Repeat Guests – A pet-friendly rental can lead to happier guests, positive reviews, and repeat bookings.

Now, let's get into the practical steps to make your vacation home the perfect pet-friendly retreat.

1. Establish Clear Pet Policies

Before opening your doors to four-legged guests, set up well-defined pet policies. These rules should be clear to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth experience for both you and your guests.

What Should Your Pet Policy Include?

- Allowed Pets – Will you allow dogs only, or are cats and other pets welcome too?
- Size and Breed Restrictions – Some hosts limit pets based on weight or breed. Consider what works best for your rental.
- Pet Fees & Deposits – Will you charge a pet fee or require a refundable deposit to cover potential damages?
- House Rules for Pets – Include guidelines for leash use, furniture access, and cleaning requirements.

Clearly communicate these policies in your listing description and rental agreement to avoid surprises.

2. Pet-Proof Your Vacation Rental

Pets can be curious, so your rental should be as safe as possible. A little pet-proofing can prevent accidents and damage.

Easy Ways to Pet-Proof Your Space

- Secure Loose Wires & Cords – Pets love to chew on things, and exposed wires can pose risks.
- Opt for Pet-Friendly Flooring – Hardwood, tile, or vinyl floors are easier to clean than carpets, which trap pet hair and odors.
- Use Stain-Resistant Furniture Covers – Consider using washable slipcovers for couches and chairs.
- Remove Toxic Plants & Chemicals – Some houseplants can be toxic to pets. Research and replace them with pet-safe alternatives.

These small changes can make a huge difference in keeping pets safe while maintaining the quality of your rental.

3. Provide Pet-Friendly Amenities

Offering thoughtful amenities tailored for pets can impress your guests and set your rental apart from others.

Must-Have Pet Amenities

- Pet Bowls for Food & Water – Place a set of clean bowls in the kitchen area.
- Comfy Pet Bed – A cozy pet bed gives furry guests a comfortable place to rest.
- Toys & Treats – Surprise guests with a small welcome basket containing some pet treats and toys.
- Pet Waste Bags & Disposal Bin – Make it easy for pet owners to clean up after their pets.
- Towels for Muddy Paws – Keep a few old towels by the door for rainy or muddy days.

These little touches can go a long way in making pet owners feel welcome and valued.

4. Create a Pet-Friendly Outdoor Space

If your rental has a yard or patio, consider making it a pet-friendly play area.

How to Make Your Outdoor Area Pet-Friendly

- Install a Secure Fence – A fenced-in yard provides pets with a safe place to roam freely.
- Provide a Shady Spot – Pets need a place to cool off, especially in warmer months.
- Set Up a Pet Station – Provide water bowls, waste bags, and a trash bin outside for convenience.
- Choose Pet-Safe Landscaping – Avoid toxic plants like azaleas, lilies, and oleanders.

A well-designed outdoor space can make your rental the perfect retreat for pets and their owners.

5. Offer Pet-Friendly Local Recommendations

Helping guests find pet-friendly spots nearby can enhance their experience and make their stay even more enjoyable.

What to Include in Your Guest Guide?

- Nearby Pet-Friendly Restaurants & Cafés
- Dog Parks & Walking Trails
- 24/7 Emergency Vet Clinics
- Pet Groomers & Stores

Providing this information shows guests that you truly care about their pets and their stay.

6. Keep Your Rental Clean & Odor-Free

One of the biggest concerns for vacation rental owners is cleanliness. While pets can sometimes cause extra mess, there are ways to keep your property fresh and clean.

Tips for Maintaining Pet Cleanliness

- Invest in a High-Quality Vacuum – A strong vacuum with a pet hair attachment makes cleanup easier.
- Use Washable Furniture Covers – These will help protect your furniture and make cleaning a breeze.
- Enforce a No-Pets-on-Beds Rule – This can help keep linens fur-free.
- Deep Clean Regularly – Steam clean carpets, mop floors, and sanitize pet beds between stays.

A well-kept pet-friendly rental will ensure non-pet owners also enjoy their stay without allergies or odors.

7. Market Your Rental as Pet-Friendly

Once you've made your vacation home welcoming for pets, it's time to spread the word!

Where to Promote Your Pet-Friendly Rental

- Vacation Rental Platforms – Clearly highlight "Pet-Friendly" in your listing title and description on Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking.com.
- High-Quality Photos – Showcase pet-friendly features like the fenced yard, pet beds, and outdoor play areas.
- Pet-Focused Social Media Posts – Share guest testimonials, pet-friendly features, and even cute pet guest photos on Instagram and Facebook.
- Dedicated Website Section – If you have a vacation rental website, create a page specifically about your pet-friendly amenities.

Attracting pet owners through strong marketing will help your rental stand out from the crowd.

Final Thoughts

Making your vacation rental pet-friendly is a win-win for both you and your guests. It allows you to attract a broader audience, increase your bookings, and provide a more enjoyable stay for pet-loving travelers.

By implementing pet-friendly policies, pet-proofing your space, offering thoughtful amenities, and marketing your rental effectively, you can create a welcoming environment for furry companions and their owners alike.

So, are you ready to open your doors to four-legged guests? With a few thoughtful changes, your rental can become the go-to pet-friendly destination travelers rave about!