How to make your Airbnb property pet-friendly
Travelling with pets has become a priority for many people, increasing demand for holiday accommodation that welcomes these family members.
If your property does not allow pets, you may be missing potential guests.
Today, the team at Alehost explains how to respond to this demand and make your apartment suitable for guests’ pets.
Here is what to consider.
How does Airbnb’s pet fee work?
Airbnb lets hosts configure a pet fee using the options available for their listing. It is not an automatic surcharge imposed on every stay and should not be confused with the platform’s service fee.
A pet fee can offer a financial opportunity while also serving as a practical way to cover the additional cleaning costs associated with pets.
Welcoming these travellers can provide a distinctive experience and additional income to cover associated costs.
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It can help you reach more customers and may improve the overall profitability of your Airbnb property.
Set and communicate your pet fee
Check which fee options your account supports and how the amount is shown to guests before booking. Do not add an off-platform charge that contradicts the listing or the channel’s rules.
- Pricing settings: choose the available option that matches your pet policy and verify the total price in a test search.
- Guest information: explain the number and types of pets accepted, the fee and the conditions. Check the listing as it actually appears, since options and price breakdowns can vary.
How to make your holiday let pet-friendly
Welcoming pets involves more than simply allowing them inside; it means providing a comfortable and safe environment.
These supplies can improve the experience for guests travelling with pets:
Food and water bowls
Provide dedicated food and water bowls so guests can feed their pets without improvising.
Pet toys
Include a selection of toys to keep pets occupied. This can make the stay more enjoyable and help prevent unwanted behaviour caused by boredom.
Pet-friendly furniture covers
Covers are a useful way to protect your furniture from potential damage while giving pets a comfortable place to rest.
Towels for cleaning paws
Leave extra towels near the entrance so guests can wipe their pets’ paws after outdoor activities. This helps keep the property clean.
A pet bed
Provide a comfortable bed for pets to rest in. Choose one that is sufficiently spacious and cosy to accommodate different-sized pets.
A scratching post and litter tray
If you accept cats, consider a scratching post and litter tray. These support feline wellbeing and help keep your property clean.
How to adapt your listing for guests with pets
If you decide to welcome pets, adjust your arrangements to provide a comfortable, safe experience.
Consider the following when updating your listing:
House rules
Update the rules to explain your pet policy and specify the number allowed per stay.
Describe the types of pets accepted, when they may be left alone, restricted areas and requirements for keeping them under control. Explain where pet waste should be disposed of.
Transparent communication
Communicate these rules clearly in Airbnb messages to avoid misunderstandings and potential conflicts with neighbours.
Answer guest questions promptly so they receive the information they need in good time.
An updated house guide
Add specific recommendations for pet owners to your house manual, such as local dog parks, veterinary clinics, pet shops and pet-care services. This gives guests useful resources while staying with their animals.
Allowing pets at your Airbnb can help attract more guests and increase rental income. Be clear and specific about the pet fee and related policies in the listing so prospective guests have the information they need before booking.
By welcoming guests and their whole family, including pets, you can help create lasting memories. Guests may appreciate the experience and be more inclined to leave positive reviews that help attract future visitors.
Assistance animals are treated differently
Airbnb’s policy does not classify assistance animals as pets: generally, they must be accepted even where pets are not allowed, and the pet fee does not apply. Conditions and possible exceptions exist; consult the accessibility policy before refusing a booking or requesting documentation.
Plan cleaning and shared-living arrangements
Define textile cleaning, hair removal, odour checks and replacement of accessories. Explain shared-area and waste rules, and calculate actual costs before setting a fee.
Sources: pet fees and Airbnb’s accessibility policy.
