Dog policies vary from one property to another: the phrase “pets allowed” does not explain how much you will pay, which dogs are accepted, where they can go, or what happens if there is damage. If you do not clarify this in advance, surprises can arise at check-in at a hotel, B&B, agriturismo, or vacation rental, when changing plans is difficult. Before paying, it is worth getting written confirmation of costs, accepted dogs, permitted spaces, room rules, and required documents. Below, you will find a ready-to-adapt message.
What to ask before booking
If the listing and policy do not already answer these questions, ask the property about the following points.
Costs: extra fee, cleaning, and deposit
Ask whether the extra fee is charged per night or per stay, whether it applies to each dog or is a total charge, and whether it includes final cleaning. Also check whether the fee is already included in the booking total or is paid on site. Then ask about the deposit: whether one is required, when it must be paid, how it is refunded, and how any damage is assessed.
Which dogs are allowed
Ask about maximum size or weight, how many dogs are accepted, and whether there are any other restrictions. If you are traveling with more than one dog, make sure they can stay in the same room. Give your dog's actual size and weight: altering the information to fit the limits could lead to a refusal on arrival.
Where your dog is allowed
Check whether your dog is allowed in each space: the room, breakfast room or restaurant, pool, wellness area, garden, beach, or partner facilities. If an area is off-limits, ask what alternatives are available, for example for meals. Also clarify where your dog can go to relieve itself and where it must be kept on a leash.
Room rules
- Bed and sofa: is your dog allowed on them?
- Left alone in the room: can your dog stay there, and under what conditions?
- Cleaning: what time does housekeeping come, and what happens if your dog is in the room?
What the property provides
Ask what is provided: bowls, a bed, bags, towels or sheets for your dog, and a refrigerator. Also check whether these are included in the extra fee. The answers will help you decide what to pack, so you bring only what you really need.
Documents and dog details to have ready
Some properties may ask to see your dog's health booklet, vaccination certificate, or microchip number. Ask which documents are required, whether they must be shown on arrival or sent in advance, and whether a digital copy is enough or the original is needed. Before leaving, check with your veterinarian that the required vaccinations and treatments are up to date. For stays abroad, specific rules apply to documents and vaccinations; check them with your veterinarian and official sources. If the property asks for the health booklet, you can keep a scan on your phone in the PawsPet app by uploading it from the “Documents” strip in your dog's “Profile” tab, where, if you have entered it, you can also copy the microchip number with a tap.
How to get written confirmation
A verbal agreement is difficult to prove: include your dog in the booking request, confirmation email, or messages on the platform you use. The confirmation should state the number of dogs, their size, the extra fee, the deposit, and the agreed conditions. Also save a screenshot of the listing and policy as they appeared when you booked; if the policy is not online, ask for a copy. If the reply contradicts the listing or policy, ask which condition applies and get it in writing. If you agree over the phone, ask for an email summary right away.
A message to adapt
Replace the parts in square brackets with your details.
On arrival and departure
- At check-in: compare the conditions with the confirmation. If anything does not match, ask for clarification and show the messages. If you are asked to sign a policy or form, read it and compare it with what you agreed.
- As soon as you arrive: take photos of the room or accommodation to document any existing marks. If your dog is allowed on the bed or sofa, use your own blanket.
- Before you leave: leave everything tidy and, if there is a deposit, ask for written confirmation of its refund or any deductions.
In short: before paying, send the message and keep the reply with your booking.
FAQ
What should I do if I am asked to pay an extra fee on arrival that was not listed?
Show the confirmation and the messages you saved, and ask what conditions the request is based on. If the matter is not clarified right away, ask for the amount and reason to be given to you in writing, for example by email. This guide is not legal advice.
