The question of whether to allow pets divides vacation rental owners. Some see it as an unnecessary risk to their property. Others view it as a competitive advantage worth pursuing.
The right answer depends on your specific property, market, and risk tolerance. This guide helps you make an informed decision.
The Case for Allowing Pets
Market Opportunity
The numbers are compelling:
- 67% of US households own at least one pet
- 78% of pet owners travel with their pets
- Pet owners take 2-3 more trips per year on average than non-pet owners
- Pet-friendly inventory remains limited in most markets
When you exclude pets, you exclude a significant portion of the traveling population—and often the most frequent travelers.
Competitive Advantage
In most markets, pet-friendly properties represent a minority of available listings. This scarcity means:
- Less competition for pet-owner bookings
- Higher visibility in filtered searches
- Premium pricing potential (pet fees add revenue)
- Better occupancy during slower periods
Guest Loyalty
Pet owners who find a great pet-friendly rental tend to return. They:
- Bookmark properties that worked well
- Refer other pet owners
- Are often willing to pay more for proven pet-friendly stays
- May book longer stays (boarding alternatives are expensive)
Revenue Potential
Pet fees represent additional income:
| Fee Type | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Per-stay pet fee | $50-$150 |
| Per-night pet fee | $15-$35 |
| Per-pet additional fee | $25-$75 |
| Refundable pet deposit | $200-$500 |
A $75 pet fee on 40 pet-accompanied bookings per year = $3,000 additional revenue.
The Case Against Allowing Pets
Property Damage Risk
Pets can cause damage that normal cleaning doesn’t address:
- Scratched floors and doors
- Chewed furniture or trim
- Stained carpets or upholstery
- Damaged screens or blinds
- Yard damage (digging, waste)
While pet fees offset some risk, significant damage can exceed collected fees.
Cleaning Complications
Pet stays require more thorough cleaning:
- Hair removal from all surfaces
- Odor treatment for sensitive guests
- Deep cleaning of soft surfaces
- Outdoor waste removal
This increases turnover time and cleaning costs.
Guest Conflicts
Not all future guests appreciate previous pets:
- Allergy concerns from pet-sensitive guests
- Odor complaints if cleaning isn’t thorough
- Negative reviews mentioning pet evidence
One bad experience from a guest with allergies can result in a damaging review.
Insurance and Liability
Pets introduce liability considerations:
- Bite incidents (even friendly dogs can bite)
- Noise complaints affecting neighbors
- Property damage beyond normal wear
- Insurance implications (verify your coverage)
Making the Decision
Properties Well-Suited for Pets
Consider allowing pets if your property has:
- Hard flooring (easier to clean, harder to damage)
- Fenced outdoor space (safer for pets and neighbors)
- Durable furniture (leather vs. delicate fabrics)
- Easy-clean surfaces (tile, sealed concrete)
- Separate entrance (less interaction with other guests/units)
Properties to Keep Pet-Free
Consider staying pet-free if:
- Luxury furnishings would be costly to replace
- Light carpeting that shows stains
- Shared spaces with other guests
- HOA or building restrictions prohibit pets
- Your insurance doesn’t cover pet incidents
- Allergy-sensitive target market (wellness retreats, etc.)
The Middle Ground: Restricted Pet Policies
You don’t have to allow all pets. Common restrictions include:
- Size limits: Dogs under 30/50/75 lbs only
- Number limits: Maximum 1-2 pets
- Type limits: Dogs only (no cats, exotic pets)
- Breed restrictions: Excluding certain breeds (controversial but common)
- Vaccination requirements: Proof of current vaccinations
- Behavior expectations: House-trained, non-aggressive only
Creating Your Pet Policy
If you decide to allow pets, a clear policy protects everyone.
Essential Policy Elements
What’s allowed:
- Types of pets accepted
- Size/weight limits
- Maximum number of pets
- Any breed restrictions
Requirements:
- Vaccination documentation
- Pet deposit or fee amount
- Cleaning expectations
- Where pets can/cannot go
- Supervision requirements
Prohibited behaviors:
- Pets on furniture (if applicable)
- Unattended pets
- Pets in certain areas (bedrooms, etc.)
- Excessive barking/noise
Sample Pet Policy Language
Pet Policy
We welcome well-behaved dogs under 50 lbs. Maximum 2 dogs per reservation.
Requirements:
- $75 non-refundable pet fee per stay
- Current vaccination records
- Pets must be house-trained
- Pets must not be left unattended
House Rules:
- Please clean up after your pet in the yard
- Pets are not allowed on beds or upholstered furniture
- Bring your own pet bedding and bowls
Damage: Guests are responsible for any pet-related damage beyond the pet fee.
Preparing Your Property
Pet-Proofing
Before your first pet guest:
- Secure hazards: Chemicals, small objects, toxic plants
- Check fencing: Gaps, loose boards, escape routes
- Protect furniture: Consider covers for upholstery
- Remove breakables: At dog-tail height
- Check screens: For strength and security
Pet Amenities
Small touches make a big impression:
Basic (expected):
- Water bowl
- Poop bags
- Information about local pet rules
Elevated:
- Dog bed or blanket
- Treats (check for allergies)
- Toys
- Food/water bowl set
- Towel for dirty paws
Premium:
- Fenced pet area
- Dog washing station
- Pet door
- Local dog-friendly restaurant list
Cleaning Protocols
Establish thorough post-pet cleaning:
- Initial sweep: Remove visible hair and waste
- Vacuum everything: Floors, furniture, crevices
- Odor check: Air freshening, enzymatic cleaners if needed
- Fabric treatment: Wash or steam soft surfaces
- Outdoor cleanup: Yard waste, any digging repair
- Inspection: Check for damage before next guest
Operational Considerations
Scheduling
Pet stays may require:
- Longer turnover time for thorough cleaning
- Buffer between pet and non-pet stays for allergy-sensitive guests
- Seasonal adjustments (more pets during summer travel)
Communication
Before pet arrivals:
- Confirm pet details (size, breed, number)
- Share pet-specific house rules
- Provide local pet information (vets, parks, restrictions)
- Ask about any special needs
Damage Documentation
Protect yourself:
- Photo documentation before and after pet stays
- Clear damage policy communicated upfront
- Prompt damage claims through platforms
- Pet fee structure that reflects actual risk
Local Considerations
Regulations
Know your local rules:
- Leash laws: Where and when required
- Breed restrictions: Some areas ban certain breeds
- Beach/park rules: Pet access varies
- Noise ordinances: Barking complaints are taken seriously
Pet-Friendly Resources
Include in your welcome materials:
- Nearest veterinarian and emergency vet
- Dog-friendly beaches, parks, trails
- Pet-friendly restaurants and patios
- Pet supply stores
- Grooming services
- Doggy daycare options
Making your property pet-friendly—or managing one that is—requires attention to detail. Learn how we handle pet policies and the additional considerations they require.
