According to the National Pet Owners Survey done in 2019, 67% of the households in the country own a pet. This comes to approximately 85 million families. That’s indeed quite a number. But one should also note that most of the population love to travel; and let’s face it – not every hotel that you check into would allow a pet along. The responsibility increases substantially when you travel with your pet. Firstly, you need to ensure that your pet does not suffer any trauma; secondly, you also need to follow certain pet-friendly etiquette in the hotel. Here are some tips to keep in mind while traveling with your pet. 

Does the hotel allow pets? 
What might have been a pet-friendly accommodation sometime back, need not necessarily be one today and vice-versa too. Hence do your research well ahead of your travel. You just cannot afford to check into any place as you fancy. Many people even resort to “sneaking” their pets into facilities that do not permit pets. The basic etiquette requires that one does not do this and it could save one a lot of embarrassment too. 

Read the instructions of the hotel carefully 
Remember that policies of every establishment could keep changing. Ensure to read the latest version of the hotel rules with respect to staying with your pet. Is it even appropriate for you to walk your pet around the property or neighborhood. Also be very clear about the fee and refundable part. It would also be a good idea to be aware of the nearby veterinary facilities. 

Carry the favorites 
Every pet has a favorite element that they find it difficult to let go of. It could be their bed or a toy. Ensure to carry these in order to make them feel comfortable in their hotels. There are instances where even the quietest of the dogs have started barking in a new environment. Some of these elements from home would make them feel comfortable as they carry the smell and memories of their home. 

Pack supplies sufficiently 
It would be wrong to assume that hotels might have dog foods, toys, bed, and blankets. It is your responsibility to carry these. Additionally, you would be surprised to see how quickly you and your pet could settle in when most of the supplies are brought on your own. 

Cover up the furniture in the hotel room
It is preferable to cover the furniture that your dog is using with a cloth. You do not want to lose out on your pet deposit money just because there is a scratch on it. 

Get a ground floor room if possible 
There are a lot of advantages with a room on the ground floor. Firstly, you will not disturb anyone below as there are no floors below you. Secondly it is relatively easy to walk around your pet. 

To summarize, it is also important that you clean up after your pet. Be mindful of your pet’s presence and act responsibly.