Pet-friendly California vacations are getting easier to find

As a dog lover and vacation rental home owner, I have often come across the subject of traveling with a beloved pet. Although only a few years ago, it was relatively rare to find hotel accommodations that would welcome, or at least tolerate, my adorable and well-behaved Boxer, Ouzo. Every once in a while while traveling on Interstate 5 in California we would stop at beautiful Harris Ranch. One, because it’s a great stopover with beautiful accommodations and great food, midway for us as well on our journey. But also, they treat Fido like WE treat Fido, with love and care! They even provide a little sign to put on the door to let people know there is a dog in the room.

Personally, I know that one of the reasons I loved traveling with Ouzo (now deceased) is because he was so much fun to be around. He is not a bother at all, and is always very well behaved in any new place. So when I became the owner of a great beach vacation home, I didn’t have to think much about accepting dogs. I know that for the most part, if people want to be with their pets, it’s because they’re nice to be around and they’re well-behaved.

What should you expect as a pet owner traveling in California or looking to rent a fun vacation property? First, most California hotels, motels, and vacation rentals will require a small pet deposit, which is refundable upon departure, as long as no damage has occurred. (We know your precious dog would NEVER harm anything, it’s like insurance is everything!) In over ten years of renting to dog lovers, I have never had to withhold the $50.00 pet deposit that I charge.

Dog friendly can mean different things to different people. Make sure you know what to expect before you book your hotel room or vacation home. Ask questions about things like floor coverings, as this can be important for your dog’s comfort. Plan to bring some of your pet’s familiar things to make him feel at home, such as toys or bedding. Many pet-friendly places provide water dishes and bowls for your pet, but consider bringing something familiar here, too, to add to the comfort and lessen the strangeness of the new environment.

Look ahead for a good place to walk the dog, the owner or booking agent should be able to provide that information. Our vacation home offers accommodation on the beach. If your visit is to a beach vacation home, be sure to know ahead of time that the beach is also dog-friendly. Many California beaches do not allow dogs. Our beach, Dillon Beach in Northern California, allows dogs to run free at the water’s edge, which they love! Nothing like a day chasing birds on the shore to have a tired and happy dog ​​at the end of the day! Having fun together and relaxing at night is what I want for my guests and their “kids”, even the 4-legged ones!