Pets are an important part of many people's lives, and as such, pet-friendly accommodation has become increasingly popular. Booking.com for Partners is a platform that allows property owners to list their properties online and connect with travelers looking for pet-friendly accommodation. Property owners are able to specify whether or not they allow pets, the types of animals allowed, and any additional terms and conditions.
However, what happens when guests show up with pets without informing the property owner? This was the case for one property owner who listed their property on the Booking.com for Partners platform. The owner had specified that their property accepted animals upon request and after accepting certain arrangements as pets were not allowed in the house. There was a special room at the entrance and a huge yard for pets to play.
One guest showed up with a very big dog, without informing the property owner. This was an issue for the owner because they had not had the opportunity to prepare the property for the dog’s arrival. There were items that easily break and fabrics that were sensitive that needed to be removed before allowing any pets inside. However, the guest took the dog inside the house with him anyway and planned to leave it there all day while he conducted business.
The property owner was understandably concerned about the situation. After all, they had taken great care to prepare their property to be pet-friendly, but they had not anticipated a guest bringing a pet without prior notice. This could be particularly troublesome as the guest had not provided any information about the animal's temperament, which could be a safety issue.
Unfortunately, the property owner was already up against it as the guest had already brought the dog into the house. The owner faced a difficult decision; to allow the dog to stay, or to ask the guest to leave. The former option was less than ideal, as it would violate the rules of the property, potentially damaging the owner's relationship with future guests. The latter seemed harsh, but given the circumstances, it was the right choice.
As more travelers bring their pets on trips, property owners would do well to ensure they prepare their houses appropriately. They should take stock of what's in the house that could be damaged by pets and remove these items. They should also note the condition of furniture and carpets since pets can cause damage to these.
In cases where a guest arrives with a pet without prior notice, property owners would do well to discuss the situation with the guest. They can remind guests of the terms and conditions related to pets and request that they adhere to them. Property owners can also request additional deposits or fees for pets to account for any potential damages that may occur.
It’s clear that pets are an essential part of many people’s lives, and pet-friendly accommodation has emerged as an important trend. However, it's important for property owners to prepare for animal visitors and communicate their pet policies clearly to guests. Through clear communication, common sense preparation, and a little bit of flexibility, property owners can ensure that their properties are safe and welcoming for pets and their owners alike.