If you’re a pet parent, you know how hard it is to leave your furry family member behind when you go on vacation. We totally get it—and that’s exactly why we set out to create the ultimate pet-friendly paradise for travelers who love exploring with their pets. From the first paw print to the final cozy corner, we designed our vacation rental to be a haven for both humans and animals.
Here’s how we built a space where tails wag, purrs echo, and memories are made.
Step 1: Understanding the Needs of Pet Travelers
Before diving into the design, we did our homework. According to American Pet Products Association (APPA), 70% of U.S. households own a pet, and an increasing number of them are traveling with their companions. It became clear: if we wanted to stand out, we had to embrace pet-friendliness as more than a checkbox—it had to be a core part of our identity.
We also explored travel trends from BringFido, which showed a growing demand for accommodations with fenced yards, nearby pet-friendly activities, and amenities tailored to pets. With that in mind, we made a checklist of must-haves.
Step 2: Safe and Spacious Outdoor Play Areas
One of the first things we installed was a fully fenced backyard. Safety is a top priority for pet parents, and giving dogs the freedom to roam off-leash in a secure environment is a game-changer. Our outdoor space includes:
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A grassy area for fetch
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A shaded nook for hot days
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A doggie splash pool for cooling off
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Waste bag dispensers and disposal bins for convenience
We took inspiration from Dog Tipper’s ideas for dog-friendly backyards to make sure our space was both fun and functional.
Step 3: Cozy Indoor Comfort for Pets
Indoors, we went all out to make pets feel welcome. From pet beds to washable slipcovers, we made sure every detail supported a clean, cozy, and pet-friendly stay.
We included:
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Soft, orthopedic pet beds in multiple sizes (PetFusion makes great ones)
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Stainless steel food and water bowls
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A basket of pet toys and chewables
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Litter box station for feline guests
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A dedicated pet-cleaning station with towels, brushes, and pet-safe wipes
We also provide hypoallergenic, non-toxic cleaning supplies from trusted brands like Seventh Generation and Puracy.
Step 4: Easy-to-Clean Flooring and Furniture
No one wants to worry about muddy paws or shedding fur. That’s why we chose pet-friendly flooring like luxury vinyl plank (LVP), which is scratch-resistant and easy to clean. We avoided carpets where possible and opted for leather and microfiber furniture—materials recommended by HGTV’s pet-friendly design guide.
We also invested in a top-rated vacuum from BISSELL, which we leave in the unit for guests to use during longer stays.
Step 5: Highlighting Nearby Pet-Friendly Spots
A truly pet-friendly experience extends beyond the house. We curated a welcome book with local pet-friendly attractions, including:
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Pet-friendly restaurants nearby with outdoor patios
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Dog parks like Millie Bush Dog Park (if you’re in the Houston area)
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Trails and walking paths
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Nearby emergency vet clinics (VetLocator helps us keep this info up-to-date)
We also offer discounts and partnerships with local groomers and pet supply stores—just one more way we support our guests.
Step 6: Clear Pet Policies with a Friendly Tone
We believe that rules can be clear without sounding cold. Our pet policy outlines:
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Max number of pets allowed
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Weight limits (if applicable)
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Breed restrictions (or lack thereof!)
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Cleaning fee structure
We make it easy for guests to know what to expect, and we also provide tips for a smooth stay with pets, like using calming sprays from Adaptil or Feliway, and planning breaks during long road trips.
Step 7: Encouraging Pet Photos and Reviews
We LOVE when guests share snapshots of their furry friends having the time of their lives. We even created a branded hashtag for Instagram and Facebook—#PawsAndRelaxRetreat (feel free to make your own)—and we feature guest pets on our listing pages and social media.
This not only builds community but also acts as authentic marketing. Airbnb even suggests it boosts bookings!
Final Thoughts
Creating a pet-friendly paradise wasn’t just about adding a water bowl and calling it a day. It was about intentionally designing a space where pets are not just tolerated, but celebrated. By combining comfort, safety, and thoughtful touches, we’ve built a getaway that’s truly inclusive for all members of the family.
Thinking of making your own rental pet-friendly? Start small—maybe a fenced yard or a pet welcome basket—and build from there. The love you’ll get back from guests (and their four-legged companions) is worth every bit of effort.
And to our future guests: whether your best friend barks, meows, or squeaks, we can’t wait to welcome you. 🐾
Helpful Resources:
Let us know what features matter most to you when you travel with your pet—drop a comment or tag us with your travel tails! 🐶🐱
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