Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Not Just Hotels and Motels

Most seasoned pet-toting travellers have stayed in hotels and motels. Sometimes, though, the smaller lodgings get overlooked simply because they're not as well known.

Hotels and motels are great because you know what to expect and they're well-equipped with modern amenities. Locations are good, and you can be pampered, enjoy the luxuries or conveniences offered by your lodgings, order room service, and so on.

However, staying in smaller lodgings can be fun too: sometimes they're located on acres of private land, and some may even allow well-behaved dogs to run off-leash (provided they're both friendly and under control, of course)! Some offer additional services such as short-term dog-sitting. Plus there's often a more relaxed, casual environment with more space to walk the pooch. Some can offer quiet, peaceful settings that you just can't get in a popular and busy hotel or motel. Remember that just because you're in a small place doesn't mean you have to stay in a shack with no amenities - many places offer modern amenities and the comforts of home.

A few types of alternate accommodations are listed below. There's lots of variety in between as well! As always, inquire about the pet policy prior to booking your stay.

- Individual cottage or cabin rentals: usually secluded, off by themselves and perfect for people who are seeking quiet and privacy. Often well-equipped with everything you need, including kitchen and linens.

- Cottage resorts: groups of cottages, often with lots of space for walking the dogs, and sometimes by lakes, forests, walking trails, etc. Many cottage resorts cater to families with children. Resident pets may be on-site.

- Bed & Breakfasts: great for people who enjoy meeting others, and that love sumptuous breakfasts (most have 'specialities' that are delicious!). There are often resident pets and, of course, other (human) guests who may mingle, so guest pets should be particularly well-socialized and well-behaved. Guests may share bathrooms, while other B&Bs offer private bathrooms.

- Bed & Breakfast Inns: a larger version of a B&B (ie. more rooms, but still much smaller than a hotel).

- Lodge: sort of like a small hotel, but with more of a 'country' look-and-feel and usually located outside the city. Many are close to outdoor recreation, or they may even offer or organize activites on-site. Some specialize in certain groups and offer amenities that cater to them; an example would be a fishing lodge.

- Chalets or condos: often meant for larger groups of people or for families that want more space. Popular with groups that go skiing together, for family reunions, wedding parties, etc.

- Vacation rentals: homes are often rented out to vacationers. Many of these types of rentals are very luxurious and quite large! Often located in beautiful private areas that can be close to 'prime' recreation such as snowmobile or hiking trails, waterfront or water view, etc. .