A Guide to Traveling with Pets: Tips for Booking Beach Rentals in NC
Imagine enjoying everything a North Carolina vacation rental has to offer: sun, surf, relaxing on the beach, enjoying the great outdoors, and exploring charming coastal tows. The only way to improve on that is by doing it with your furry best friend by your side. With more than half of US households owning a pet, pet friendly vacations are a growing business, with many vacation rentals joining in. Recently, the Outer Banks area has become a haven for pet owners looking to disconnect and recharge with their companions.
However, as popular as vacationing with a pet is these days, traveling with an animal still requires some extra consideration and planning. In this guide, you’ll learn what you need to consider such as fees, house rules, leash laws, and safety features so you can have a successful vacation.
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Extra Pet Fees or Deposits
One of the first things you’ll discover when searching for a pet friendly beach rentals NC is the pet fee or deposit. Most places charge a pet fee to help cover any extra cleaning or damage caused by the pet. Compare fees charged by different properties as there are many different ways these fees work. Some charge a single flat rate fee while others charge per night, per animal, or both.
Note that service animals are exempt from any pet fees. However, most hosts require renters to provide supporting documentation when booking or at check in.
Beach Rental House Rules for Pets
Along with pet fees, most pet friendly rentals will include a list of house rules for pets (just like for humans). These generally cover things such as noise restrictions, whether or not they’re allowed to be on the furniture, if pets are barred from certain rooms, and how many pets allowed.
Features to Keep Your Pet Safe
The best pet friendly rentals are those with certain features or amenities that make your pet safer and more comfortable. These features can include:
- A fenced-in yard
- A pet door
- Furniture covers
- Easy to clean floors
These features likely won’t be listed with the rental’s normal amenities such as the kitchen or laundry room. Browse through pictures included with the listing to specifically look for these things that will make your pet safer and more comfortable.
Research Local Leash Laws
Hopefully, your host will include the applicable local laws and ordinances regarding animals in the house rules. If they haven’t, it’s easy to find local leash laws as well as dog-friendly beaches, nature preserves, and parks. Knowing where and when you can unleash your pup will help you plan a better vacation for you both.
While restaurants don’t allow dogs into dining rooms due to health codes, many will welcome your furry friend on their outdoor patio assuming they’re well-trained and well-behaved.
You Can Even Find Special Pet Amenities
Special pet amenities are rare, but you can find some rentals that offer extra perks for pets. Check listings for popular extras such as dog begs, blankets, water and food bowls, treats, or disposable bags. Not all places will offer them but finding them can make your trip quite a bit easier.
Pet travel progressed quite a ways in the past few years as more and more travelers opt to vacation with their companions. Gone are the days of sneaking your dog or cat into a hotel through the side door. With a bit of research and extra consideration, you’ll find the right beach rental in North Carolina for your whole family.