Paws-itive Stays: Benefits of Being a Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental
“We will be spreading the ashes of my beloved dog Serendipity who we lost unexpectedly to cancer last month. I always promised her I would take her to the beach and we never made it there together. My sister will be bringing Penelope is Serendipity’s sister who has been grieving her pretty badly. This will be her first beach trip and we’re hoping it raises her spirits,” a recent guest wrote to us as she was booking her Oak Island stay.
Pets are family. Dog parents want to share adventures with their furry friends bringing them along to create memorable experiences for everyone. Many owners don’t want to have to board their dogs or pay for a pet sitter. Often dogs are a comfort during challenging times such as illness, loss, or just having several generations of family all under one roof.
It’s easy to understand why a growing number of travelers are looking to bring their beloved companions along. Vacation rental properties have a unique opportunity to cater to this expanding market, especially in our dog-friendly beach community of Oak Island, North Carolina. By offering pet-friendly accommodations you open your doors to a wider demographic of enthusiastic and often repeat guests.
Oak Island visitors enjoying the beach
Here are some tips on how to create a dog-friendly vacation rental experience:
The Untapped Market: Why Pet-Friendly is Smart Business
Imagine this: a family is planning their annual getaway. They have two well-behaved dogs, and their first search filter is "pet-friendly." If your property doesn't appear, you've instantly lost a potential booking. The demand for pet-friendly accommodations is soaring, with pet ownership at an all-time high. By embracing pets, you tap into this significant market, attracting responsible pet owners who are often willing to pay a premium for properties that accommodate their furry family members.
While it might seem counterintuitive, eliminating pet fees can be a game-changer.
Increased Bookings: For many travelers, a pet fee can be a deterrent, adding an unexpected cost to their vacation budget. Removing this barrier instantly makes your property more attractive and competitive.
Positive Guest Experience: Guests appreciate transparency and feeling valued. Waiving pet fees creates a positive first impression and fosters goodwill, leading to better reviews and repeat bookings.
Trust and Respect: It signals that you trust your guests to be responsible pet owners, which often encourages them to be even more diligent in caring for your property. While pet fees can offset extra cleaning or damage expenses, are dogs really more likely to cause a mess than toddlers or a group of 20-something-year-olds staying for a bachelor weekend?
Theo making himself at home
Beyond the Welcome Mat: Essential Pet Amenities
Simply allowing pets isn't enough. True pet-friendliness means providing amenities that make both pets and their owners feel comfortable and catered to. Think of it as creating a home away from home for four-legged guests.
Outdoor Essentials:
Fenced Yard: This is arguably the most coveted amenity for pet owners. A secure, fenced-in area provides a safe space for pets to play and relieve themselves, offering peace of mind to their humans. Shout out to our friends at Oki Fence & More for being our go to for local fence installments!
Pooper Scooper & Waste Bags: This thoughtful inclusion eliminates a common inconvenience for guests and encourages them to keep your yard clean.
Designated Pet Relief Area: Even without a full fenced yard, a clearly marked and easily accessible area for pets to do their business is a huge plus.
Indoor Comforts:
Food and Water Bowls: These simple items save guests from having to pack bulky bowls and show you're thinking of their pet's basic needs.
Pet Bed or Blanket: A washable pet bed or a designated blanket provides a comfortable and familiar sleeping spot, helping pets settle in and keeping your furniture clean.
Extra Leashes and Collars: Having spare leashes or collars available can be a lifesaver for guests.
Local Vet Information: Compile a list of nearby veterinary clinics and emergency animal hospitals, along with their contact information and operating hours.
Welcome Treat: A small bag of dog treats is a delightful touch that will surely earn you rave reviews.
House Rules for Pets: Clearly communicate any specific rules regarding pets (e.g., "no pets on furniture," "please clean up after your pets") to ensure a harmonious stay for everyone.
By investing in a pet-friendly approach – from waiving pet fees to providing essential amenities – you're not just making your property more attractive; you're creating memorable experiences for an often underserved market. Happy pets lead to happy guests, and happy guests lead to five-star reviews, repeat bookings, and a thriving vacation rental business. So, open your doors, roll out the welcome mat, and let the paws-itive reviews roll in.
Ready to find your dog-friendly vacation rental?