Pet Friendly Hotels for Dogs

From LoveToKnow Dogs

Two Minute Dog Advice guest columnist Wendy Nan Rees offers useful information about pet friendly hotels for dogs.

Vacation Tip: Pet Friendly Hotels for Dogs

Most of us with the economy issues these days are on a very tight budget. However, the AAA is bringing us some very encouraging news. Pet owners in increasing numbers are still taking their four-legged friends on vacation with them. The most recent Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association found that 19% of all dog owners and 3% of all cat owners are taking their pets with them when they are away from home for at least two nights. The AAA is helping pet owners out with over 13,000 options for lodging in its 2008 pet traveling guide.

Many hotels throughout Europe and North America are coming up with gourmet menus and other amenities for our tail-wagging friends. No wonder they are responding like this, as we are still traveling with our pets. Here are just a few pet friendly hotels for dogs you'll want to check out.

Hilton

Hilton Hotels and Resorts' has begun offering their "Pet Friendly" program in over 200 Hilton hotels in the Americas. The program is brand new and a guest's pet will receive a welcome package when checking in.

This package includes:

An official Hilton pet collar tag
A packet of biodegradable waste pickup bags
A bottle of disinfectant, deodorizer and one-step cleaner
Organic treats
A travel tote

Hilton's upscale amenities even feature a pet bed designed by artist William Wegman and Crypton Fabrics. It is available in-room and can soon be purchased online at HiltonToHome.com.

Last, but certainly not least, the hotels participating in the "Pet Friendly" program also offer a concierge service for the pet traveler. This provides information on local pet shops, veterinarians and kennels in the area.

Additionally, only a certain number of rooms will be designated "pet friendly" in each participating hotel. Not only will they undergo a regular room cleaning, they will be subject to a deep cleaning. This includes all drapery, upholstered furniture and carpets. This service is performed after each four-legged guest checks out.

Biltmore

Housing is not the only thing our dogs have to look forward to. At the Arizona Biltmore Resort and Spa in Phoenix, your dog can feast on Zen You for $11.00. Zen You is a vegetable stir-fry with poached eggs and steamed brown rice. This meal is designed to help your dog adjust to any altitude changes and jet lag he may experience.

Hard Rock

In Tampa, Florida at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, your dog can feast on braised New Zealand lamb served on a bed of rice for $15.00, or he can have an appetizer of chicken liver pâtè for $7.00.

Hyatt Regency

In Los Angeles, the Hyatt Regency at Century Plaza offers a locally sourced organic room service dog menu. All items, including the "Buddy Burger," will cost you $5.00 and are cooked to order.

Final Travel Tips

When traveling with your pet, Please remember to always pack your travel first aid kit, and bring water from home to help your dog make the transition. Please also be sure to bring your dog's own food. Yes, these hotels do provide a fun menu for you and your dog, but the last thing you want while traveling is an upset stomach. So, please use the menu as a treat and keep Fido on his normal diet.