Pet-friendly stays in the UK: Hosting four-legged guests this summer

Why offer pet-friendly accommodation?

According to the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association, 57 percent of UK households now own a pet. This growing demographic often struggles to find suitable accommodation, which means pet-friendly listings enjoy higher visibility and demand across booking platforms.

Here are just a few reasons to consider making your property pet-friendly:

• Increased bookings: Pet-friendly properties can enjoy higher occupancy rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
  
  

• Premium pricing: Guests travelling with pets are often willing to pay extra for the convenience of bringing their furry friend along.
  
  

• Repeat visits: Pet owners frequently return to places where their pets were welcomed and well cared for.
  
  

• Wider visibility: Listing sites such as Airbnb and Booking.com allow users to filter by pet-friendly stays, helping your property appear in more search results.
  
  

Setting up for success: Making your property pet-ready

Making your holiday rental suitable for pets doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Small changes can go a long way in providing a safe, comfortable environment for both pets and their owners. Here are a few quick tips:

• Provide pet essentials: Include food and water bowls, a few dog waste bags, and a blanket or mat for pets to sleep on.
  
  

• Secure outdoor spaces: If you have a garden, ensure it’s fully fenced and safe for dogs to roam freely.
  
  

• Create house rules: Be clear about where pets are allowed (e.g. not on beds or sofas) and include this information in your welcome guide.
  
  

• Use durable materials: Choose furnishings and flooring that are easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear.
  
  

• Highlight local pet-friendly spots: Recommend nearby walking routes, dog-friendly pubs or beaches in your guest guide.
  
  

How Travelnest helps you attract pet-loving guests

When you list your property with Travelnest, you’re supported by a team of dedicated property experts who know how to position your rental for success. Whether you’re adding “pet-friendly” for the first time or refining your listing to attract more bookings, your expert will:

• Recommend the best channels for exposure to pet-travelling audiences
  
  

• Optimise your listing with keywords and tags that boost discoverability
  
  

• Advise on pricing and fees related to pets
  
  

• Suggest simple upgrades that improve the guest experience
  
  

You’ll also benefit from Travelnest’s powerful multi-channel distribution. Your listing will be published across over 30 top platforms, including Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia and Vrbo, helping you reach the widest possible audience.

Communicating clearly with guests

Transparency is key when welcoming pets. Use your property description to reassure owners that their pets will be comfortable and safe, and don’t forget to list any fees or restrictions upfront.

You might want to:

• Specify how many pets you allow and their maximum size
  
  

• Mention whether you provide bowls, beds or treats
  
  

• Outline any cleaning charges or additional deposits
  
  

• Include photos of your outdoor space or nearby walking routes
  
  

A great example of this approach can be found in our article, “5 tips to write the perfect Airbnb listing description”, which covers tips on how to write clear, compelling content for your guests.

Final thoughts: A warm welcome for all

Opening your doors to pets not only increases your property’s appeal but also creates more memorable stays for your guests. With the right support, thoughtful touches and clear communication, your rental can become a trusted destination for pet owners year after year.

Partnering with Travelnest gives you the confidence and tools to succeed. Our property experts are on hand to help you optimise your listings, target the right guests and maximise your earnings throughout the busy summer season.