Can hotels deny pets?

Can Hotels Deny Pets? Understanding Pet Policies in the Hospitality Industry

Travelers who love their furry companions often wonder whether all hotels accommodate pets. The answer is nuanced, depending largely on each hotel's policy as well as legal obligations related to service animals. Here's what you need to know about the rights hotels reserve when it comes to accommodating pets and what pet owners should expect when booking a stay.

Are Hotels Legally Required to Accept Pets?

Legally, hotels are not required to accept personal pets. Hospitality establishments are private businesses and can set their own policies about whether or not animals are allowed on their premises. This discretion means that a hotel can deny entry to pets without violating any federal or state law. However, there is an important exception when it comes to service animals.

Service Animals and Legal Protections

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), hotels and other public accommodations must allow individuals with disabilities to bring their service animals into all areas where guests are typically allowed. Service animals are defined as dogs (and in some cases miniature horses) trained to perform tasks directly related to a person’s disability. Key points about service animals:

• Hotels cannot charge a fee for service animals.
• They cannot demand proof of certification or training.
• They may only ask if the animal is required for a disability and what tasks it has been trained to perform.

Emotional support animals (ESAs), on the other hand, are typically not covered under the ADA, meaning hotels are not obligated to accommodate them unless local laws state otherwise. Some hotels may voluntarily allow ESAs, but it’s not mandated by federal law.

Types of Pet Policies in Hotels

Hotels generally fall into three categories in regard to pet policies:

1. Pet-Friendly Hotels: These allow pets, sometimes with certain restrictions or fees per night. Options may include pet rooms, onsite pet relief areas, and welcome kits.
2. Restricted Pet Policies: These properties allow pets but limit the size, number, or breed. They may also restrict areas where pets can go.
3. No-Pet Hotels: These do not allow pets on the premises, even small dogs or crated animals, except legally recognized service animals.

Why Hotels May Deny Pets

There are several reasons a hotel may choose not to permit pets:

• Allergy concerns: Some guests may have severe allergies to pet dander, creating a health risk.
• Noise and cleanliness: Barking dogs and potential for damage or odors pose concerns for hotel management.
• Liability issues: If a pet bites or injures another guest, the hotel can be held responsible.
• Brand standards: Chain hotels may have consistent policies across locations, including a no-pet stance.

Tips for Traveling with Pets

If you're planning to travel with your pet, here are some helpful steps to take:

• Call ahead: Always confirm the hotel’s pet policy before booking. Policies can vary between franchises even within the same hotel brand.
• Be honest: Declare that you’re traveling with a pet to avoid any issues at check-in.
• Prepare for fees: Be aware of any non-refundable pet fees or deposits charged by the hotel.
• Bring documentation: For service animals, you are not required to carry any paperwork, but relevant medical documentation can be helpful if challenged.
• Respect the property: Always clean up after your pet and abide by the hotel’s rules and quiet hours.

Alternatives to Hotels for Pet Owners

For those who frequently travel with pets, alternative accommodations may prove more pet-friendly:

• Vacation rentals: Many Airbnb and Vrbo listings allow pets and often offer backyards or more space.
• Pet-specific hotels: Some boutique or independently owned lodges actively cater to pet owners and offer amenities such as dog beds and treats.
• Extended stay lodging: Business-oriented suites often come with more flexible pet policies.

Conclusion

So, can hotels deny pets? In short, yes. Unless a guest’s animal qualifies as a legal service animal under the ADA, hotels have the full right to refuse animals. If you're a traveler with a beloved pet, planning ahead is essential. A quick call or review of the hotel’s website can save a lot of frustration and ensure a smooth check-in process for both you and your furry friend.