Pet-friendly rentals for Fido: A growing market opportunity for vacation rental managers
Let's face it, our furry friends are more than just pets; they're family. So when it comes to vacations, why should they be left behind? As the number of pet owners continues to skyrocket, so does the demand for pet-friendly accommodations. This provides pet-friendly rentals a significant advantage for property managers, allowing them to tap into a larger market.
By embracing pet-friendly policies and offering the right amenities, property managers can capture this demand, generate revenue, and attract travelers looking for rentals where they can bring their furry sidekick along for the ride. With these tips, your property can become a top destination for pet owners seeking memorable vacations.
According to AirDNA, 66% of US households own a pet, yet only about 30% of STR listings are pet-friendly. That's a lot of potential guests you might be missing out on! Offering pet-friendly accommodations and amenities gives pet-friendly STR managers a competitive edge.
The benefits of being pet-friendly:
Pet-friendly rentals often see a 2-3% increase in occupancy compared to those that aren't. This can lead to higher revenue and better overall performance. Travelers who refuse to leave their companions behind are also willing to pay a premium for accommodations that welcome their pets, which can be seen in higher average daily rates. While there might be extra cleaning costs, the increased occupancy and higher rates can easily cover that. For added security, and revenue, consider charging a pet fee or a deposit.
Tips for creating a pawsome experience:
Let your guests know exactly what pets are welcome. If you're only dog-friendly, clearly define your pet policy to avoid any misunderstandings. Specify the types of pets allowed (dogs, cats), if there are any weight or size restrictions, and any extra fees or requirements.
Provide the necessities to make your guests and their pets feel at home. This includes fenced-in yards, water and food bowls, washable dog beds, furniture covers, and pet-related gifts. Adding pet-friendly amenities will make your place even more appealing. You can even charge a small fee for these extras.
It’s also good to make sure your cleaning staff is equipped to handle pet-related messes and allergens to maintain a clean and comfortable environment for all guests. This may require additional training or specialized cleaning products.
Need some inspiration?
See how sojo can help make your vacation rental a pet-friendly paradise!
We’ve got welcome gifts that include toys, doggie bag holders, collapsible water bowls and more. You can even offer a sojo pet bundle to help you stand out from the crowd, win more bookings, and give a warm welcome to guests traveling with pets.
By embracing pet-friendliness, STR managers can tap into a growing market, increase occupancy rates, and provide a memorable experience for both pet owners and their furry companions. So, what are you waiting for? Make your STR property a pet-friendly paradise!
Want to see how sojo can help? Grab a free sample!
sojo is an Amenity Automation Platform for Vacation Rentals. With more than 20k properties on our integrated platform, we’re able to support property managers and their staff to keep turn days automated and the products a welcome surprise to their guests.
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