Accepting Pets in Short-Term Rentals: Pros and Cons for Property Owners

The decision to allow pets in a short-term rental can be a strategic choice or a challenge, depending on your approach and goals.

07/02/2025 - Pets are an essential part of many people’s lives, and allowing guests to bring their pets can open doors to new customers. However, this decision requires careful consideration as it involves a range of responsibilities and considerations. Below are the pros and cons of accepting pets in your rental and how this can impact your business.

Pros of Accepting Pets

1. Increased Bookings

Many travelers prefer rentals that allow their pets as it saves them the trouble of finding alternative accommodations, such as pet hotels or pet daycare. This can lead to an increase in bookings and attract a new audience that values this convenience.

2. Enhanced Guest Experience

Property owners who accept pets tend to provide a more welcoming and inclusive experience. Many travelers view their pets as family members and may choose a rental based on this ability. This can improve overall satisfaction and reviews, which are crucial for maintaining a strong reputation for your property.

3. Pet Fee Revenue

Charging a pet fee for accommodating animals is a way to offset additional cleaning and maintenance costs. This fee can help maintain the profitability of your property while also being an added incentive for accepting pets.

4. Market Differentiation

In a saturated rental market, offering pet-friendly accommodations can be a competitive advantage. This can attract tourists who might otherwise struggle to find suitable accommodations for their pets.

Cons of Accepting Pets

1. Risk of Property Damage

One of the biggest challenges of accepting pets is the risk of property damage. Even well-behaved pets can cause scratches on furniture, floor damage, or leave extra mess. While pet fees can help, these costs may not fully cover any potential damage.

2. Increased Cleaning Effort

Pets can leave behind hair, odors, and dirt, which require additional cleaning between stays. This can increase maintenance time and costs, especially if the property is rented frequently. A deep cleaning may be necessary after each stay, which can be exhausting, particularly if guests don’t keep the space clean.

3. Coexistence Issues with Other Guests

If you have shared accommodations, like in a multi-unit building or house, there may be coexistence issues between guests who love pets and those who prefer not to interact with animals. This can lead to conflicts or even negative reviews if not managed well.

4. Safety Concerns

Not all pets are well-behaved or socialized. This can raise safety concerns both for other guests and the pets themselves. If the pet is not well-trained, there may be a risk of aggression, especially if other pets are present at the property.

Managing the Risks and Benefits

If you decide to accept pets, here are a few best practices to help mitigate the risks and maximize the benefits:

Set Clear Rules: Define rules around pet accommodations, such as the number of pets allowed, size limits, and restricted areas within the property.
Charge a Fair Fee: Set an additional fee for pets that covers cleaning costs and potential damages.
Require a Security Deposit: This can help cover unexpected damages caused by pets.
Offer Pet-Friendly Amenities: To make the stay more enjoyable for pet owners, provide amenities like pet beds, water and food bowls, or a small outdoor space.
Communicate with Guests: Be clear about what is and isn’t allowed. This helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures guests feel comfortable.
Evaluate the Pet's Profile: If possible, ask for information about the pet’s behavior and training before confirming the booking to ensure there won’t be any issues.

Count on TeamCHECKiN’s services to make the right decision regarding pets, based on the characteristics of your property.