CHICAGO — Fido and Fluffy no longer have to “ruff” it at home while their human companions are on the road. The travel experts at The GO Group found these hotels offering pet-friendly policies and amenities to pamper pooches and coddle kitties.
Boutique hotel chain Kimpton leads the pack with its pet-friendly amenities; some locations even have canine Directors of Pet Relations as greeters. Pets are welcomed by name and doted on with amenities such as plush beds, food, water bowls and mats; courtesy bags; a concierge list of nearby pet-friendly restaurants, parks, groomers and shops plus an invitation to join the nightly complimentary wine reception.
Bonus? The properties don’t charge extra for pets. Not traveling with a pet? Kimpton will provide a pet fish for your stay.
Many Hyatt properties are dog-friendly and some welcome cats, too. Offerings include a welcome letter and door hanger at check in; dog bed, bowl, ID tag, special treats and designated dog walk areas. There are size restrictions, a non-refundable fee and a three-day advanced notice for furried guests.
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts invites pets less than 20 lbs. to join their owners, offering welcome packages with water bowls, plush beds, biscuits, bandanas, toys and pampering gift sets. Pet fees vary depending on the hotel. Extra services such as dog walking, grooming and pet sitting can be arranged.
Ritz-Carlton Hotels & Resorts has its own guidelines and fees, but some, such as the Ritz-Carlton Manhattan, get swanky, offering Burberry trench coats for rainy days, gold-plated tags, gourmet treats, special pet carriers and on-call vet services.
The Ritz-Carlton,Georgetown, D.C. also offers a directory listing the best walking trails, shops, bakeries and daycare for pets. For an additional fee, guests can opt to receive a training session. Pooches won’t want to leave the Ritz-Carlton, Las Vegas after treated to a champagne bottle with festive dog biscuits, a four-poster doggie bed and a collar emblazoned with diamonique letters available for purchase at the spa.
