In a survey of 1,200 U.S. travelers, TripAdvisor found travelers inseparable from their pets. Sixty one percent of pet owners reported traveling with their pets last year, 33 percent said they frequently bring theis pets along on a trip, and five percent claimed they always do. Twenty six percent think of their pet as part of the family, and 14 percent think that bringing their pet is more cost-effective than using a kennel.
Sentiment was divided on pets traveling on board on an airplane. One percent of pet owners reported air travel as the most pet-friendly form of mass transportation, though 15 percent took their took onto a plane last year. When asked if small pets should be allowed in the cabin, 57 percent of pet-owners approved, against 59 percent of non-pet owners who disapproved.
Travelers' top three problems included pet owners not picking up after their pets (56 percent), owners taking their pets into inappropriate settings (35 percent) and expecting others to treat their pets like people (28 percent). Thirty nine percent reported allergy issues as the biggest annoyance caused by travelers bringing their pets on mass transit, and 26 percent were frustrated by noisy pets.
Among the pet owners, 44 percent of respondents who travel with their animals identified designated green space for walking pets as the most important factor of a pet-friendly hotel, while 16 percent sought out on-site kennels or pet daycare.
TripAdvisor editors and travelers also chose their top 10 most pet-friendly hotels.
1. Hermitage Hotel, Nashville, Tennessee
Amenities include a Pampering Pet program including treats upon check-in, cozy beds, a menu of delicacies, on-site dog-walking service ($15 per walk) and available massage and grooming services. Each night, a pet-surcharge of $50 will be added.
2. Hotel Monaco Portland, Portland, Oregon
Director of Pet Relations Timmy runs the pet amenity program at the boutique downtown hotel. Complimentary amenities and service include bowls and beds during the pets' stays, and the "Portland Unleashed" package, offered separately, including a doggie makeover and a map of pet friendly breweries.
3. Affinia Dumont, New York City, New York
In Midtown East, the Affinia Dumont's bar and restaurant is named Barking Dog. Amenities include plush dog beds and a travel water bowl for guests to take home, and additional services available include pet taxis and a pet psychic. Per stay, a $25 pet-surcharge is offered.
4. Argonaut Hotel, San Francisco
The Argonaut Hotel invites pets of all sizes, providing pet necessities, including beds and bottled water, at no surcharge. During the fall, the annual "Pet Howl'oween" features a dog costume show.
5. Nine Zero Hotel, Boston
Across from Boston Common's 50-acre public park, the downtown hotel offers a complimentary "In the Doghouse" pet package that includes a designer pet welcome treat and an in-room pet bed and bowl.
6. The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Colorado
The "Pitty Pat Pet Club" program included bedding, bowls, and a 24-hour in-room dining menu, including gourmet treats for cats and dogs. Guests can walk their pets in designated areas on-site or take advantage of pet parks and scenic spots by hotel-provided maps. Per stay, a $35 pet-surcharge is added.
7. Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch, Scottsdale, Arizona
This resort's "4Paws" program has dog and cat beds and a "Beastro" menu, including Canine Veggie Bruschetta and feline Seafood Parfait. A per-night surcharge of $50 is added, and pets weight must not exceed 40 pounds, though larger pets are permitted at the hotel's discretion.
8. Hotel Solamar, San Diego
The hotel's VIP (Very Important Pet) Program has complimentary treats for pets upon check-in, dog beds and food and water bowls in guest rooms. Additional services include pet bonding sessions and pet massage.
9. Sheraton Seattle Hotel, Seattle
Pet-owners can enjoy the Pet Welcome Pack of information and supplies. Travelers can bring pets up to 80 pounds. Dogs are supplied with a complimentary Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Dog Bed, while outside the room, the "Dog in the Room" sign will keep out any unexpected visitors.
10. Loews Coronado Bay Resort, Coronado, California
Upon check-in, pet owners will receive edible treats, a pet tag and bowl are provided. Guests who book the "Su-ruff Camp" package will get accomodations, a doggie surf lesson, board shorts and a bandana, and a Surf and Turf room service pet meal. Per stay, a $25 surcharge will be added.
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