How to Attract Pet Owners to Your Short-Term Rental

More travellers than ever are bringing their pets along for the ride — and why shouldn’t they? Pets are family too. If your rental feels like a true home-away-from-home for both humans and their furry companions, you’ll create an experience guests won't forget. Here’s how to make sure pet owners (and their pets) feel completely welcome.

Make Pets Feel Like VIP Guests

Why it matters

When people travel with their pets, they’re hoping their companions will feel just as comfortable and cared for as they do. If pets are relaxed and happy, their owners can truly enjoy their stay without worry. Nothing spoils a trip faster than a stressed-out pet.

Creating a space that welcomes pets like honoured guests makes visitors feel they’ve found somewhere special. It shows them you understand that pets aren’t just tagging along — they’re part of the experience.

What to do

Offer simple things like a cozy pet bed, food and water bowls, and maybe a little welcome treat. Even something as small as a basket of dog toys or a scratching post for cats can make a big impact. Adding a few pet blankets or even a dedicated feeding station can also go a long way toward making pets feel like they're right at home.

If you have outdoor space, think about adding a shady spot where pets can rest, especially on warmer days. A simple water bowl placed outside is another thoughtful gesture that shows you care about pets' comfort while they play or relax outdoors. These little extras make a big difference, helping pets stay cool, refreshed, and happy during their stay.

Help Guests Discover Local Pet Adventures

Why it matters

Travelling with pets often limits where guests can go — and they’ll be grateful for tips that make their trip easier. Finding parks, cafés, and beaches where pets are welcome means they can enjoy days out without the stress of constantly double-checking pet policies.

Having a few great recommendations ready makes guests feel like they’re being looked after beyond just the four walls of your rental. It shows that you genuinely care about their entire experience.

What to do

Put together a short list of nearby dog parks, scenic walking trails, pet-friendly beaches, pubs, cafés, and any local attractions that warmly welcome pets. Include a few personal recommendations too — like the best shady park for hot afternoons or a café that puts out water bowls and biscuits. You could even highlight quiet routes for early morning or evening walks, perfect for dogs who prefer calmer settings.

If you know of any local pet shops, doggy daycare services, or emergency vets, pop those details in too. Guests will appreciate not having to hunt for them in a pinch. Leave all this information in your welcome guide, and consider sending it via email a few days before their stay so they can start planning adventures with their furry friend.

Make the Space Safe and Stress-Free

Why it matters

Pets are curious by nature — and what’s fun for them can sometimes be risky or cause damage. Owners naturally worry about things like escape routes, harmful plants, or easily broken decorations. A home that's safe and pet-friendly lets guests properly relax and enjoy their time away.

When guests see you’ve made the space safe for their pets, it builds trust and helps them settle in faster. It shows you’ve thought about what they would want, not just what’s easy for you.

What to do

Do a quick pet-safety check around your property: secure outdoor areas with proper fencing or gates, remove any toxic plants, and swap out fragile or delicate decorations for sturdier, pet-friendly options. Check that there are no small objects lying around that pets might chew, swallow, or knock over. It's also a good idea to make sure windows and balcony railings are safe for curious pets who might try to squeeze through.

You could even leave a few “just in case” supplies to ease guests' minds, like extra poo bags, antibacterial wipes, a pet towel for muddy paws, and maybe even a spare leash or pet first aid kit. Taking a few extra steps to pet-proof your space shows guests you’ve gone above and beyond to make sure both they and their pets are safe and comfortable.

Make Cleaning Up After Pets Easy

Why it matters

Nobody likes feeling like their pet is making a mess — especially when they’re in someone else’s home. Giving guests simple ways to keep things tidy helps them feel more at ease and cuts down on awkwardness. It also shows that you expect pets to be part of the stay — not an inconvenience — which makes pet owners feel properly welcome instead of tiptoeing around.

What to do

Leave cleaning supplies in easy-to-find places: things like a handheld vacuum for quick clean-ups, lint rollers for picking up pet hair, and spare poop bags for garden or outdoor clean-ups. Make sure these supplies are stored neatly but visibly, so guests don't have to rummage through cupboards to find what they need.

A washable throw on the sofa or a mat by the door for muddy paws can also help guests keep things neat without feeling like they’re ruining anything. You could even leave a small cleaning checklist with gentle suggestions on how to use the supplies, which makes it easy for guests to pitch in without feeling pressured or uncomfortable. These little touches make it clear that pets are truly welcome, and help guests relax and feel right at home.

Celebrate Pets in Your Listing

Why it matters

Pet owners love when a place doesn’t just allow pets but welcomes them. They’ll be excited to book somewhere that feels proud to host four-legged guests. Seeing mentions of pets in the description — and even better, in the photos — makes your space feel immediately more inviting. It also reassures guests that their pets will be treated kindly, not grudgingly tolerated.

What to do

Make it clear right from the start: highlight your pet-friendly approach in your title, description, and even in your photos. Don't just say "pets allowed"—really show how welcome they are. Use warm, inviting language that lets guests know you’re genuinely excited to host their furry companions.

Show off the backyard, a cozy corner for a pet bed, or a happy dog enjoying the space (with permission from past guests, of course). Including a few pet-focused images helps potential guests immediately picture their pet enjoying the stay. Mention any specific rules kindly and positively — things like “pets welcome with a few simple house rules to keep everyone happy,” or "please wipe paws after walks to keep things fresh for everyone." Making the expectations clear but friendly helps everyone feel more comfortable.

Conclusion

Travelling with pets is a big part of life for so many people, and it should feel easy and joyful — not complicated or stressful. With a few thoughtful touches and a genuine welcome, you can help guests and their furry friends feel completely at home. When you treat pets like the VIPs they are, you’ll create the kind of stay guests will remember, cherish, and tell their friends about (often with adorable photos to prove it). 🐾