Over 70% of U.S. households own a pet but less than 25% of vacation rentals welcome pets! This means that making your vacation rental pet friendly will automatically mean tapping into the growing demand for pet-inclusive travel options! In fact, homes that are pet friendly often see a booking increase of 10-15%, many owners can increase their nightly rates, and those vacation homes also see a higher rate of returning customers! If you’re wondering how to create a pet friendly vacation rental in North Lake Tahoe, you’re in the right place!
Creating a pet-friendly vacation rental requires thoughtful planning and preparation to ensure the comfort and safety of all your guests—both human and furry! That’s where we come in. This guide is packed with practical tips, considerations, and insights to help you transform your North Lake Tahoe property into the ultimate pet-friendly getaway.
The bottom line? Catering to pet owners enhances your property’s appeal and boosts profitability but you’ll need to weigh up the pros and cons to decide whether this is the right step for your rental property!
Quick Guide: Top Features for Pet-Friendly Rentals
Essential Additions for a Pet-Friendly Space
Pet-Accessible Spaces
Why It Matters: Pets need a comfortable area to relax without causing unnecessary wear and tear on your rental.
Best Features to Include:
- Non-carpeted floors like tile, hardwood, or laminate for easy cleaning.
- Dedicated spaces, such as a corner with a pet bed or a mudroom for cleaning up after outdoor adventures.
Pro Tip: Tahoe Signature Properties can help you create functional yet stylish spaces that meet pet owners’ needs while preserving your rental’s value.
Pet Amenities to Impress Guests
Must-Have Items:
- Food and water bowls.
- Waste bags for easy clean-up.
- A cozy pet bed or blanket for lounging.
Nice-to-Have Extras:
- A pet welcome basket with treats, toys, or local pet-friendly guides.
- Pet towels for drying off after outdoor activities.
Why It Works: These small details make guests feel welcome and often lead to rave reviews and repeat bookings.
Outdoor Safety Features
Outdoor Safety FeaturesEssential Outdoor Elements:
- Fully fenced yards or secure patios for worry-free play.
- Gates or barriers to prevent pets from accessing unsafe areas.
How It Benefits You:
- Adds value to your rental and attracts more bookings from pet owners.
- Provides peace of mind for guests, ensuring a better overall experience.
Tips to Make Your Rental Appeal to Pet Owners
Provide Local Pet Resources
Include a list of:
- Pet-friendly parks and hiking trails.
- Restaurants, cafes, and breweries that welcome pets.
- Nearby pet stores and veterinarians for emergencies.
Pro Tip: Create a printed or digital guidebook to showcase these resources and enhance your guests’ stay.
Implement Clear Pet Policies
Key Policies to Include:
- Cleaning fees and deposit amounts.
- Rules for leashes, barking, and clean-up.
- Restrictions on certain pet types or sizes (if applicable).
Opt for Durable Materials and Design
Top Recommendations:
- Washable slipcovers and stain-resistant fabrics for furniture.
- Rug pads or non-slip mats to protect flooring.
- Durable outdoor furniture that resists claw marks and weather damage.
Pro Tip: Tahoe Signature Properties provides expert guidance on choosing pet-friendly materials that don’t compromise on style.
Market Your Pet-Friendly Features
Why It’s Crucial: Pet-friendly amenities often set your rental apart in online listings.
How to Highlight Them:
- Use clear descriptions and bullet points in your listings to emphasize features like fenced yards and provided pet supplies.
- Include photos showcasing pet-friendly spaces and amenities.
Considerations for Pet-Friendly Rentals
Extra Cleaning Requirements
What to Expect:
- Deeper cleaning between stays, including removing pet hair and odors.
- Investing in high-quality vacuums and pet-friendly cleaning products.
Solution: Add a nominal pet cleaning fee to cover these costs without affecting your profits.
Wear and Tear
What to Watch For:
- Scratches on furniture or flooring.
- Extra wear on rugs and upholstery.
Prevention Tips:
- Use furniture protectors like throws or covers.
- Invest in durable flooring options like vinyl or laminate.
The Tahoe Signature Properties Advantage
Managing a pet-friendly rental involves more than adding a few amenities—it’s about creating an experience that attracts bookings while protecting your investment. With years of experience creating incredible vacation rentals for our clients and guests, we can help you develop a plan to make your rental property the perfect pet friendly place!
Here’s how Tahoe Signature Properties can help:
Set Up for Success:
- We’ll evaluate your property and recommend practical, pet-friendly improvements.
- Help establish clear, guest-friendly pet policies.
Marketing Expertise:
- Showcase your pet-friendly features on high-traffic platforms to maximize visibility.
- Highlight your property’s unique appeal with professional photos and compelling descriptions.
Stress-Free Management:
- Handle cleaning, maintenance, and guest communication.
- Provide on-the-ground support for any issues during a guest’s stay.
Create a Pet-Friendly Retreat Today!
Catering to pet owners is one of the smartest ways to increase bookings, maximize revenue, and ensure happy guests. But you don’t have to tackle it alone! Tahoe Signature Properties specializes in creating and managing pet-friendly rentals that stand out in North Lake Tahoe’s competitive market.
Contact us today to transform your vacation home into a pet-friendly haven that guests (and their pets) will love!
