Should I allow pets in my short term rental?
The Down Low
You’re interested in letting furry friends into your short term rental, but at the same time don’t know if it’s worth the risk. Also, all hosts have to let in service animals unless you have an allergen-free home and this article can help you be better prepared for these rare but real situations. If you have an allergen-free home, you should note this in your listing.
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I get a lot of questions about allowing pets in short term rentals. It’s a niche area, and allowing pets increases bookings, but at what cost? I surveyed 79 Airbnb hosts on if they allowed pets into their rentals. Only 33% said they allow pets. But, the profit increase that came with allowing pets was notable. One woman said her bookings went up by 40% after allowing animals. Another woman said her listing brought in an extra $10k per year after she started allowing pets! So, the numbers are there. On the flip side, I also heard a number of horror stories of dogs destroying floors, beds, and walls, and cost a boatload in time and cleaning fees.
I’m a NO Thank You
If you do not allow pets because of a threat to health or safety, add a note somewhere in your listing so people know it is not allowed. Consider working it something like this: “Although we love fur babies, we host guests that have life-threatening allergies to both cats and dogs, and to provide an allergen-free space we do not allow pets”. Obviously, I’m not a lawyer, so if you are worried about legalities check with a licensed attorney to know your rights on this issue.
I’m a YES Please
You either love pets or you love money and you want to start allowing pets in your short term rental. First, create a list of rules so it’s clear what is expected from guests. Here is a list to give you some inspiration.
Sample Rules for Pet Friendly Rentals
Clean up doggy doo-doo on the lawn
Dogs must be vaccinated and treated for fleas
Dogs must be crated at night
Bring food bowls and dog beds
Nails must be clipped
Put a weight limit in place
No dogs on furniture or beds
Do not leave the dog home alone unless crated
Be sure you take a pet deposit that you feel will be sufficient to cover any possible damages. Charge and additional fee per night that pets will be present - from what I’ve seen this ranges from $25 – $125 per pet per night.
Items to Buy to Make Pet Stays a Breeze
Dog bowl - This makes it so guests aren’t using people dishes for pets and your floors stay clean.
Dog Crate - These come in different sizes - choose a larger one to be able to accommodate a variety of pets
Dog Bed - This comes in a number of sizes and colors and is super cozy for pets.
Doggy doo doo bags - These are earth-friendly and are 270 in a box
Pooper Scooper - Help guests clean up dogs messes
Paw Cleaner - Comes in a few sizes and colors
Pet Paw Wipes - These come in handy in muddy areas
Animal hair vacuum - Clean up pet hair with ease
Lint roller - For people and furniture
Tie outs - Dogs can spend some time outside without someone having to walk them
Angry orange pet oder eliminator - This citrus deodorizer is for those naughty pets that leave a strong dog or cat pee smell. This doesn't happen often, but when it does be prepared. It works on carpets, furniture, and floors both inside and outside.
Angry Orange Stain Remover - In the unfortunate event that pets leave stains use this to clean up the mess.
If you really want to go the extra mile, provide a list of the nearest dog parks and pet-friendly businesses in the area. Have fun with your pet-friendly rental and don’t forget to advertise this amenity.
Want to learn another short term rental income strategy that doesn’t involve dogs? Download my pricing strategy that got my first 100% booked month.