The hospitality industry is continuously evolving to meet the changing needs and preferences of travellers. One significant trend gaining traction is the demand for pet-friendly accommodations.
As more people choose to travel with their pet companions, hotels have a unique opportunity to tap into this growing market. Embracing a pet-friendly approach not only enhances guest satisfaction but also offers numerous benefits to hoteliers.
The growing trend of pet-friendly hotels
The trend towards pet-friendly hotels is driven by several factors. Firstly, pets are increasingly seen as integral members of the family.
According to a 2024 survey by the UK Pet Food association (formerly PFMA), it is estimated that 17.2 million households (60%) own one of the UK’s 36 million pets, with dogs and cats being the most common. Consequently, travellers are reluctant to leave their pets behind when they go on holiday.
Additionally, the rise of remote work and flexible schedules has made it easier for pet owners to travel with their animals. Social media also plays a role, as influencers and celebrities showcase their pet-friendly travel experiences, inspiring others to do the same.
As a result, hotels that welcome pets are not just catering to a niche market but responding to a broad and growing demand.
Benefits for hoteliers
There are several benefits for hoteliers who choose to accommodate pets. First and foremost, pet-friendly policies can attract a wider audience, including those specifically looking for accommodations that accept pets.
This can lead to higher occupancy rates and increased revenue, especially during peak travel seasons. Moreover, pet owners are often loyal customers. By providing an exceptional experience for both pets and their owners, hotels can build a loyal customer base that returns time and again.
Positive word-of-mouth and online reviews from satisfied guests can further boost the hotel’s reputation. In a competitive market, offering pet-friendly amenities can set a hotel apart from its rivals. As more travellers seek pet-friendly options, hotels that cater to this demand can differentiate themselves and attract more bookings.
How to cater to guests travelling with pets
To successfully cater to guests travelling with pets, hotels need to implement thoughtful and comprehensive pet-friendly policies.
First and foremost, hotels need to implement thoughtful and comprehensive pet-friendly policies. Establishing clear policies regarding pet size, breed restrictions, and the number of pets allowed per room is essential. Communicating these policies transparently on the hotel’s website, booking platforms, and during the reservation process helps to avoid any misunderstandings.
Designating specific rooms or floors as pet-friendly and equipping these rooms with durable, easy-to-clean flooring and furnishings is also crucial. Providing pet beds, food and water bowls, and waste disposal bags can make pets feel more “at home”.
Enhancing the pet-friendly experience by offering additional amenities and services can make a significant difference. This could include welcome treats, a pet concierge service to assist with pet-related needs, and partnerships with local pet grooming or walking services.
Ensuring there are designated outdoor areas where pets can exercise and relieve themselves is important. Providing waste disposal stations and maintaining clean, safe spaces is crucial for a positive guest experience.
Prioritising the health and safety of all guests by implementing thorough cleaning protocols for pet-friendly rooms is essential. Using pet-safe cleaning products and conducting regular inspections to ensure cleanliness and hygiene is also important.
To implement pet-friendly policies, hoteliers should start with market research to understand the demand for pet-friendly accommodations in their area. Analysing competitors’ offerings and identifying potential gaps in the market that the hotel can fill is a good starting point.
Staff training is another critical step. Staff should be trained to handle pet-related inquiries and situations effectively. They should be knowledgeable about the hotel’s pet policies, local pet services, and how to address any issues that may arise during a pet’s stay.
Forging partnerships with local pet businesses, such as veterinarians, pet stores, and dog-walking services, can enhance the guest experience and provide additional resources for pet owners.
Promoting the hotel’s pet-friendly status through various marketing channels is also crucial. Highlighting pet-friendly amenities and services on the hotel’s website, social media, and in promotional materials can attract pet-owning travellers.
Encouraging guests to share their pet-friendly experiences online and leveraging user-generated content can further boost the hotel’s visibility. Gathering feedback from guests who travel with pets is essential for continuous improvement. Using surveys, reviews, and direct feedback to identify areas for enhancement ensures that both pets and their owners have a positive experience.
Overall, the trend towards pet-friendly hotels is more than just a passing fad – it’s a reflection of changing traveller preferences and the growing importance of pets in people’s lives. By embracing pet-friendly policies, UK hotels can attract a wider audience, increase revenue, and build lasting guest loyalty.