How to make your property pet-friendly with our expert tips
At HolidayHost, we pride ourselves on being experts in the holiday rental market, leveraging data-driven insights to help holiday home owners maximise their bookings and profits. With data from Airbnb revealing a nearly 50% increase in nights booked with pets, it’s clear that catering to pet owners is a lucrative opportunity. By following our expert advice, you can transform your property into a dog-friendly haven that attracts more guests and boosts your revenue.
The growing trend of dog-friendly travel
Our friends at Airbnb have shared important data with us which indicates a significant shift in travel trends, with more guests than ever bringing their dogs along on holidays. This is particularly evident in the UK, which topped the global charts in the summer of 2023 for the highest percentage of guests travelling with pets based on nights booked. These insights demonstrate the immense potential for owners who welcome pets, especially dogs.
Benefits of being dog-friendly
Increased bookings
By opening your doors to guests with dogs, you immediately broaden your potential market. With the growing number of dog owners seeking suitable accommodation, your dog-friendly property is likely to attract more bookings.
Higher revenue
Dog owners are often willing to pay a premium for accommodation that welcomes their furry friends. You can charge an additional dog fee or a higher nightly rate for dog-friendly amenities, thereby increasing your overall revenue.
Positive reviews and repeat guests
Happy guests are more likely to leave positive reviews and return for future stays. By providing a welcoming environment for dogs, you can create memorable experiences that lead to glowing reviews and repeat bookings.
How to make your property dog-friendly
Set clear pet policies
Establishing clear rules helps manage guest expectations and protect your property. Specify the types of pets allowed, size limits, and the number of pets permitted. Outline any additional fees and the responsibilities of pet owners during their stay.
Provide dog amenities
Offering dog amenities can make a significant difference. Consider providing:
*Dog beds and blankets *Food and water bowls *A designated pet relief area *Waste bags and a disposal station *Dog toys and treats.
Safety first
Ensure your property is safe for dogs. Secure balconies and gardens to prevent escapes and remove any hazardous items. Check that fences are in good condition and that there are no gaps where pets could squeeze through.
Highlight nearby attractions
Help your guests make the most of their stay by providing information about local dog-friendly parks, beaches, restaurants, and other attractions. A list of nearby vets and pet shops can also be very helpful.
At HolidayHost, we have the know-how to help you make your holiday home more appealing to guests.
Accommodating dogs is a win-win for property owners and guests alike. With the significant increase in dog-friendly travel, offering a welcoming space for furry friends can set your property apart and lead to more bookings, higher revenue, and satisfied guests. By implementing dog-friendly policies and amenities, you can tap into this growing market and make your property a favourite choice for dog owners.
