Pet Travel Tips

Traveling with Pets at Best Western

Best Western recognizes the ever growing needs for pet friendly accommodations. We strive to offer our guests and their furry friends a comfortable stay and have done our best to ensure consistency at all of our pet friendly properties.

Best Western pet friendly properties will allow up to two domestic dogs in a rented room, with a maximum size of 80 lbs per animal. Other pet types such as cats, birds, monkeys, snakes, or other animals are allowed at the discretion of each property and require prior approval from the property.

There may be a maximum $20 per day charge for each room with a pet or multiple pets or a maximum per week charge of $100. A refundable damage deposit of up to $50 per stay may be required of all guests with a pet.

When making your reservation at a pet friendly hotel, it is recommended that you call the hotel directly if you have specific pet related questions and to guarantee availability of a pet friendly room.

Planning a vacation with your pet? Find one of our pet friendly hotels and make a reservation.

Look who's staying at Best Western! Our Pet Traveler Photo Gallery features our happy furry and feathered guests. Your pet could be featured here, too! Don't forget to take our latest Pet Poll!

Before You Go

1. Research basic information about pet friendly travel accommodations and make your reservations in advance.
2. Make a visit to your vet to update any shots your pet needs, check your pet for any health problems that may be affected by travel, get a health certificate and proof of any necessary shots from your vet, and get any medication your pet needs. Remember that you need a health certificate issued within 10 days of your trip.
3. Make sure your pet is well-trained, well-socialized, and used to traveling in your car.
4. Make sure your pet has the proper ID to travel, including and a collar with a current ID tag. You may also consider a collar tag with travel-specific information, such as your cell phone number.
5. Have your pet groomed before you leave.

Getting Packed

Your pet should have a crate or carrier. It must be:

1. Big enough to allow your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down.
2. Equipped with handles/grips to move easily.
3. Familiar to your pet.
4. Labeled with your name and contact information, as well as marked "Live Animals" for air travel.
5. Well-ventilated.
6. Free of sharp or protruding surfaces inside.

Here are some important things to bring with you:

1. Food and Water
2. Eating/drinking bowls
3. Pooper scooper/litter box/plastic bags
4. Extra leash/collar
5. Treats and Toys
6. First aid supplies (bandages, ointment, medications, etc.)

Air Travel Tips

1. Your pet must have an approved crate or carrier that meets the requirements above.
2. Your pet must have a health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination from your vet issued 10 days before your flight.
3. Consider booking a nonstop, direct flight. Also consider flying during less busy times and days.

Car Travel Tips

1. Keep your pet secure in an approved crate or carrier during your trip.
2. Never leave your pet unattended in your vehicle.
3. Don't feed your pet too much before you start your trip or while your vehicle is in motion.
4. Allow time for food, water, and bathroom breaks.
5. Don't let your pet stick its head outside of doors or windows.

Out and About

1. Plan activities with your pet in mind.
2. Line up other plans for your pet when you can't bring your pet with you.
3. Observe leash and cleanup regulations.
4. Keep an eye on your pet at all times.

Traveling with Pets Resources

Here are some additional resources to make traveling with your pets easier!

American Veterinary Medical Association
U.S. Humane Society Pet Care Tips for Travel
ASPCA Pet Care Tips - Air
ASPCA Pet Care Tips - Car