How to Roll out the Red-Carpet Treatment for Pets
“Are you pet-friendly?” might be a common question you are hearing more and more. Traveling with a pet is a trend across the world, and guests are increasingly seeking out accommodations that will welcome their four-legged family members with open arms.
To help capture pet-loving travelers it might be time to consider pet-friendly accommodations at your property. There is lots of competition, so stand out by offering your guests the royal treatment of their pets.
To get you started, here a few tips on how to roll out the red-carpet treatment for your guests’ pets:
Playtime
Pets need exercise, so offering an outdoor play area or a dog run is a great amenity for your guests’ furry little friends. Depending on how your property is set up, create a “play zone” indoor or outdoor where your guests’ pet can be active.
Pets eat too
There are several ways in which you can provide food and treats for your guests’ pets. If you have a restaurant or offer breakfast, consider providing a pet menu as well. If you aren’t set up to provide pet food, partner with a pet company to offer treats for an upsell to your guests.
Pet-sitting
Maybe your guests want a little “me time” away from their pets, giving you an opportunity to upsell a pet-sitting or dog-walking service. Whether you hire outside help for this or offer it in-house, it is an added amenity your pet-friendly guests will enjoy.
A good night’s sleep
Just as their owners do, pets need a good night’s sleep. So why not offer a few bedding options for your guests’ pet? Again, this is another opportunity to provide an add-on package at the time of check out that includes options for different bed sizes, a water bowl, a treat, and maybe even a play toy. Be sure to price your packages according to the pet’s size, so offer a small, medium, and large pet package.
Pet-friendly travel tips
If your guests are bringing their pet on vacation they likely want to know what other pet-friendly activities are available in the area. By providing information about pet-friendly beaches, nearby dog parks, and pet-friendly restaurants and bars you can better sell yourself as the ultimate pet-friendly destination.
Let your guests know you are pet-friendly
It isn’t enough to be pet-friendly. You have to tell your guests that you are! Make sure your website displays your pet-friendly accommodations and amenities. Beyond your website, make sure your property is described as a pet-friendly accommodation on OTAs and other travel sites.
Ultimately it is up to you on how you want to accommodate your guests’ four-legged family member. But the more you can lay out the red-carpet treatment for pets, the more likely pet-loving guests will book with you!
For more revenue-driving ideas and trends in the travel industry, visit our blog and be sure to sign up for our monthly newsletters!