There’s nothing quite like the feeling of snuggling up to your special furry friend. And when someone with a pet decides to go on vacation, they are also choosing to leave that feeling behind *insert sad face here*.
They have a few options to ensure Fluffy or Fido are comfortable in their absence. Pet owners can:
- Board their pet
- Find a family member or friend to pet sit in your home
- Hire a pet sitter to come and check on your furry friend while you’re gone, including walking, feeding, and toileting them
Or is there another option? What about accommodating this audience with a pet friendly Airbnb or other vacation rental? As a vacation property owner or manager, you’re always looking to attract new groups of people to your accommodations. And if you’ve been anywhere near tourism trends in the past few years, you know there is a huge demand for pet lovers to bring their beloved furry family members on vacation.
But is engaging this population segment worth it for your business? Can it really be a money maker, or is it just a bunch of furry hassle? With about 66% of US households owning a pet, plenty of furballs and their pet parents are looking for places to stay within the US and beyond its borders. So let’s put pet friendly Airbnb and other vacation rentals aimed at servicing pets under the microscope and discuss how it can be something that can work for your accommodation business.
Upsell Meaning
If you ask Merriam-Webster what the meaning of upselling is, it will tell you upselling is “an attempt to convince a customer to purchase something additional or more costly.” Accommodation providers know this to be true, but it can also be defined as a way to offer your clients something more or extra to improve their experience.
Examples of upsell opportunities for accommodation providers catering to pets include:
- On-site or local grooming services and wash bays
- Pet-friendly dining options
- Pet sitting or walking services
- Pet amenities rental (i.e., beds, crates, toys)
- Pet-friendly tours or activities
- Welcome packages specifically for pets (including information on pet policies, things to do with your pet, treats, and toys)
- Pet spa packages
This is really just a start! The sky is the limit for your pet friendly Airbnb or vacation rental and what you can offer pets and pet parents staying onsite. So start brainstorming, and get ready to have some paw-some new amenities furry guests will love and owners will be willing to pay for.
Benefits of Pet Friendly Vacation Rentals
Alright, so now you have the metaphorical bee in your bonnet about expanding your reach and becoming a pet friendly vacation rental. But like any savvy accommodations operator, you want to know what’s in it for you and your bottom line. We get it—it seems like it could be an expensive endeavor and maybe even a messy one.
With that in mind, we’re going to break down the benefits of upselling to pet parents and how catering to them can bring you more business and happy guests (and their pets), time and time again.
Benefit #1: Increase Booking Potential
Who doesn’t want more bookings? Increasing the number of bookings and improving your occupancy rate are arguably the biggest impacts you can make on your business’ revenue. By reaching an entirely new demographic and catering to their specific needs, you can increase the number of people who want to stay with you simply by offering something others do not.
With the ability to host pets at your pet friendly vacation home rental, you can reach people who:
- Enjoy traveling with their pet
- Cannot board their pet due to health or personality issues
- Do not have someone near them to pet sit in-home
- Are traveling for long periods of time and don’t or can’t leave pets behind (for example, digital nomads)
As you can see, accommodating pets expands your customer base by tapping into niches like those listed above and enhances your overall booking potential by catering to a diverse range of travelers’ needs and preferences. Embracing pet-friendly policies can significantly boost your revenue and occupancy rates, making it a strategic move for maximizing your business’s success in the hospitality industry.
Benefit #2: Higher Rates
Does it really pay to be pet friendly? Well, we just talked a little bit about how offering pet friendly vacation rentals can improve your revenue thanks to increased booking potential. You can also see improvements in your bottom line by charging higher rates and additional fees for pet owners staying at your properties.
Accommodation operators can structure fee upcharges for pet friendly vacation rentals in three parts:
- Increasing the overall price per room (for any pet-friendly rooms on the property)
- Adding an upcharge for pets (either per pet or per room)
- Adding a specialized cleaning fee (either pre-emptively or post-checkout)
Now if you’re asking yourself whether pet owners will pay for these upcharges, you wouldn’t be alone. Plenty of researchers have looked at what people are willing to fork out for our beloved furry babies. From being willing to pay as much as they would on their own wellness for their pets to being willing to spend up to $50 per night for pets while traveling, it’s evident that people love pampering their pets, and they’re speaking with their wallets. Plus, with 78% of American pet owners embarking on journeys with their beloved companions by their side each year, there’s a huge pool of willing pet parents to market to.
This makes sense because the pet owner would be paying for their pet’s care anyway, whether by putting them in a local kennel or paying someone to go to their home and look after their pet directly through an app like Rover. Check the local rates for kennels in your area to help you set the appropriate price per pet.
Since research suggests pet owners would be willing to pay as much as $50 per night, let’s assume that’s the local rate in your area. If you have 500 nights booked per year across your properties and 78% of guests bring at least one pet with them, that’s 390 nights times $50, which equals almost 20k of extra revenue.
Benefit #3: Enhanced Loyalty
Let’s move beyond revenue and talk about another huge draw to convert to a pet friendly Airbnb or pet friendly vacation rental: repeat visitors and enhanced loyalty. Pet-friendly Airbnb policies encourage repeat visits from guests who appreciate being able to bring their furry companions along.
Why? Because when guests feel welcomed with their furry friends, they’re more likely to return for future stays. Here’s how catering to pets can boost loyalty:
- Increased likelihood of repeat visits when returning to the same area or staying with other brand locations, based on knowledge of how you accommodated their pets in the past
- Greater guest satisfaction and positive word-of-mouth recommendations
- Building a community of pet-loving travelers who actively seek out pet-friendly accommodations
- Strengthening your property’s reputation as a welcoming and inclusive destination for all travelers, pets included
By embracing pet-friendly policies, you can cultivate a loyal guest base that keeps returning for more memorable stays.
Benefit #4: Competitive Advantage
Alright, it’s time for the ultimate treat in the dog bowl–giving your business a powerful competitive advantage by becoming a pet friendly Airbnb. If boosting your revenue and enhancing loyalty wasn’t enough of a reason to step into the pet friendly vacation rental world, think about this scenario:
A potential guest is browsing stays in your area. They spot a few standouts in their initial research, including your property or properties. They see great reviews for all the options, and the price per night is fairly similar across the board. Then, they decide to compare amenities to make their final decision on where to stay. And what do they see when they are using the room booking software’s breakdown of amenities? That one property offers pet-friendly accommodations and services just for their furball. They didn’t even think they could bring their precious pet with them on this vacation, so they are quite pleased to learn it’s an option at this location.
This is what makes you stand out from the competition. Making your guests and their pets feel at home is one way to make sure you leave competitors in the dust.
Considerations Before Offering a Pet Friendly AirBnB
Before opening your doors to furry guests, it’s essential to consider a few key factors. Converting to a pet friendly Airbnb stay can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires careful planning and consideration. In the next section, we’ll explore five important considerations for providers looking to embrace pet friendly vacation rentals.
From property suitability to cleaning protocols, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for your human and four-legged guests. Let’s dive in and explore how you can create a welcoming haven for pets and their owners alike.
Consideration #1: Property Suitability for Pets
Before you go any further down the road of exploring pet friendly Airbnbs, determining whether or not your property is suitable for pets is the first consideration to make. Pets, like their human companions, have specific needs and requirements. Likewise, your human neighbors and nearby guests also have the right to enjoy their spaces reasonably. That’s why it’s essential to consider whether your property is suitable for furry guests.
Here are a few factors to take into account when making this decision:
- Condo policies: Some condo units within an apartment or villa complex may not allow pets. Check condo policies before proceeding.
- Space: Assess if your property offers enough room for pets to move around comfortably indoors and outdoors.
- Safety: Identify any potential hazards or dangers within the property, such as toxic plants, sharp objects, or steep staircases, and take steps to mitigate them. Ensuring a safe environment is crucial for both pets and their owners’ peace of mind.
- Accessibility: Consider if your property is easily accessible for pets, including any stairs, elevators, or outdoor areas. Providing convenient access ensures that pets can move freely throughout the space without any hindrances.
- Neighborhood: Evaluate the surrounding area to ensure it’s pet-friendly, with parks or green spaces nearby for walks and bathroom breaks. Guests with pets will appreciate having outdoor areas where they can enjoy quality time with their furry friends.
By carefully assessing your property’s suitability for pets and making necessary accommodations, you can create a welcoming and safe environment for your human and furry guests. This sets the stage for a memorable and enjoyable stay for all parties involved.
TL;DR: Assess if your property is suitable for pets, considering factors like space, outdoor access, and potential hazards.
Consideration #2: Minimizing Damage Risk
When managing pet-friendly Airbnb experiences, smells, damage, and wear are valid concerns as an owner or operator. Even though most pet owners are pretty responsible, accidents can still happen, and we all know what can occur when untrained or bored pets are left alone. With that being said, some simple ways to mitigate damage will make it an enjoyable experience for your guests and keep your spaces looking fresh.
Here’s the lowdown on how to keep things in tip-top shape and what to have on your maintenance radar.
| Damage Concern | How to Minimize Damage Risk |
|---|---|
| Stained carpet or flooring | Use pet-friendly flooring materials that are resistant to stains and easy to clean. Offer guests cleaning supplies for quick cleanup of accidents and consider professional cleaning between stays. |
| Damage due to gnawing, tearing, or biting | Remove any items pets may be tempted to chew on, such as electrical cords or delicate decorations. Provide durable chew toys and bones as alternatives. |
| Scratched floors or furniture | Provide scratching posts or pads and discourage scratching on furniture by applying deterrents or providing alternative surfaces. Consider using protective coverings on furniture. |
| Accidents or mess indoors | Implement strict cleaning protocols, including using enzyme-based cleaners to remove odors and stains effectively. Consider using washable or waterproof furniture covers. |
| Property damage and wear and tear outside | Secure outdoor areas with fencing or gates to prevent pets from wandering off. Regularly inspect outdoor furniture and landscaping for any signs of damage and promptly address issues. |
Taking proactive measures to minimize damage risk can ensure a positive experience for pet-owning guests and your property. Encouraging responsible pet behavior and providing necessary amenities can help mitigate potential issues, allowing everyone to enjoy a memorable and stress-free stay.
TL;DR: Develop strategies to minimize the risk of property damage caused by pets, such as requiring security deposits or implementing pet-proofing measures.
Consideration #3: Pet Supplies
Next up on the list of considerations is having the right supplies on hand to make pets and their owners feel at home. We all love going on a trip and finding the comforts of home waiting for us in our rental or room, whether that is soap or a fresh set of fluffy towels, and our pets are no different. Making sure you’ve got all the right supplies to keep furry guests happy and comfortable during their stay, from food bowls to toys and everything in between, will ensure you’re set up for success!
Pet friendly Airbnbs and rentals should consider having on hand supplies like:
- Food and water dishes
- Doggy poop bags and disposal locations
- Cat litter boxes
- Towels for pets
- Pet shampoo
- Puppy pads
- Extra leashes and collars
- Pet beds
- A pet first aid kit
- Toys
By ensuring you’ve got all the right pet supplies ready to go, you’re not just providing a place to stay–you’re creating a home away from home for your guests and their beloved pets. Plus, it avoids extra cleaning and laundry costs by offering pet-specific supplies, such as towels and food dishes, so your human guests aren’t drying off with a dirty pup towel or eating out of a dish a pet has used.
TL;DR: Offer your furry guests a range of amenities and supplies so they feel more at home and aren’t searching for supplies in the wrong places.
Consideration #4: Cleaning Policies
Regardless of whether your vacation rental is for pets or people, maintaining a high level of cleanliness is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both pet-owning and non-pet-owning guests.
Implementing thorough cleaning protocols is critical to ensure a hygienic environment for all your furry guests. Regularly clean and sanitize all surfaces, floors, and linens to maintain a hygienic environment. In addition to your standard cleaning supplies, make sure to have specialized products on hand for tackling pet-related stains and odors. Enzyme-based cleaners are particularly effective for breaking down organic matter and eliminating pet odors. Consider investing in a quality vacuum cleaner with pet-specific attachments to remove pet hair from carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces. By staying on top of your cleaning routine, you can ensure that your Airbnb remains fresh and inviting for all guests.
TL;DR: Implement thorough cleaning protocols to maintain a hygienic environment for future guests, including specialized cleaning for pet-related messes.
Consideration #5: Guest Communication
Let’s talk about one of the most crucial aspects of running a pet-friendly Airbnb: communication with your guests. Being clear and upfront about your pet-friendly policy is key to managing expectations and ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved. Here’s what you need to consider:
First, ensure your pet-friendly policy is clearly outlined in your listing description. Let potential guests know that pets are welcome and provide any relevant details, such as size restrictions, breed limitations, and additional fees. This helps guests make informed decisions before booking and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings down the line. Additionally, it’s essential to communicate with guests during the booking process to confirm that they understand and agree to your pet policy. This allows you to address any concerns or questions they may have upfront and ensures that both parties are on the same page before their arrival.
TL;DR: Clearly communicate your pet-friendly policy on your listing and during the booking process to manage guest expectations and avoid misunderstandings.
Pros & Cons: Is a Pet Friendly AirBnB a Good Idea?
Thinking about opening your doors to furry guests? Let’s weigh the pros and cons of embracing pet friendly vacation rentals. While catering to pets can be rewarding, it’s essential to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before making the leap.
Consult the table below for a quick breakdown of pros and cons:
| Pros of Pet Friendly Airbnbs | Cons of Pet Friendly Airbnbs |
|---|---|
| Increased bookings | Potential property damage |
| Enhanced guest loyalty | Allergy concerns |
| Competitive advantage | Additional cleaning requirements |
| Extended stays | Noise disturbances |
| Higher rental rates | Compliance with regulations |
| Positive reviews | Limited market appeal |
| Increased property protection | Liability concerns |
Offering a pet friendly Airbnb or pet friendly vacation rental can bring numerous benefits, weighing the pros and cons carefully to determine if it aligns with your business goals and preferences. By considering both sides of the equation, you can make an informed decision that enhances the overall guest experience while mitigating potential risks.
How To Upsell a Pet Friendly Vacation Rental
You’re ready to open your doors to pets of all kinds. You know it can rake in extra revenue for your accommodations rental business and can be the competitive advantage you need in a crowded marketplace. But how exactly do you capture those bookings and those dollars? The answer lies in your Airbnb property management tool.
We’re here to help you understand how to upsell a pet friendly vacation rental successfully. With the right tools in your kit, including the best vacation rental software, you can ensure your booking process is smoother than a freshly groomed pup’s coat.
Implement a Central Reservation System
A central reservation system is the backbone of your vacation rental business, streamlining booking processes and managing reservations efficiently. By integrating upselling features into your central reservation system, you can seamlessly offer additional services and amenities to pet-owning guests, maximizing revenue and enhancing their overall experience.
Here’s how you can leverage a CRS to add upselling opportunities for your pet-friendly vacation rental:
- Customized booking experience: With a CRS, you can personalize the booking process for pet-owning guests. Implement targeted messaging during the reservation process, highlighting pet-friendly amenities and services available for an additional fee.
- Upsell pet amenities: Use your CRS to offer upsells on pet amenities such as pet beds, bowls, toys, or welcome packages. During the booking process, prompt guests to add these extras to their reservation, enhancing their pet’s stay while increasing revenue for your property.
- Package deals: Create package deals tailored for pet owners, bundling together pet-friendly amenities with additional services such as pet sitting, grooming, or local pet-friendly activities. Utilize your CRS to showcase these packages as add-on options during the booking process, enticing guests to upgrade their stay.
By harnessing the power of a central reservation system, you can seamlessly integrate into your booking process upselling opportunities tailored specifically for pet-friendly stays. From personalized messaging to automated communication, a CRS empowers you to enhance the guest experience while maximizing revenue for your pet-friendly vacation rental.
Leverage Automation
Maximize efficiency and revenue potential by leveraging automation within your central reservation system. Automation can streamline operations, enhance guest communication, and boost your pet-friendly vacation rental revenue. With automated communication options such as SMS and email, you can engage with guests at every stage of their journey, from booking confirmation to post-stay feedback. Customize emails to highlight pet-friendly amenities and upselling opportunities, enticing guests to enhance their experience with add-on services.
Additionally, dynamic pricing features allow you to adjust rates based on demand, seasons, and special events, ensuring competitive pricing for pet-friendly amenities and maximizing revenue during peak times. Furthermore, automated inventory management simplifies tracking and availability of pet-friendly amenities and services, preventing overbooking and optimizing revenue potential.
Upsell Software for Vacation Rentals: Newbook
When it comes to maximizing revenue and enhancing the guest experience at your pet-friendly vacation rental, having the right tools is essential. Enter: Newbook. With Newbook, you can unlock a world of upselling opportunities for pet-friendly stays.
Newbook’s intuitive reservation management software offers a range of features designed to streamline operations and drive revenue growth for your property. From customizable booking experiences to dynamic pricing strategies, Newbook allows you to easily upsell pet-friendly amenities and services. With automated email campaigns, you can engage with guests before, during, and after their stay, highlighting pet-friendly offerings and enticing them to enhance their experience with add-on services.
Moreover, Newbook’s inventory management tools ensure accurate tracking and availability of pet-friendly amenities, preventing overbooking and optimizing revenue potential. Whether you’re offering pet beds, bowls, toys, or personalized welcome packages, Newbook helps you showcase these offerings as enticing add-on options during the booking process, maximizing revenue while enhancing the guest experience.
Pawsitively Purrfect Stays for Pet Parents
Whether you have pet friendly vacation rentals with fenced yards or offer pet friendly waterfront vacation rentals, you know you will have guests go barking mad over your offering–and have the increased revenue you’ve been chasing. With Newbook’s upsell software for vacation rentals, you can effortlessly tailor the guest experience to cater to furry companions, maximizing revenue while providing unforgettable stays for guests and their pets.
Ready to take your pet-friendly vacation rental to the next level? Unlock the full potential of your property with Newbook today! Find out more about what Newbook can do for you by requesting a demo today.
