Traveling with man’s best friend can sometimes get a little complicated, but many motel chains are now dog-friendly. However, not every chain offers it at every location, as laws differ state to state. You should call before you make a reservation to confirm you are able to bring a dog and find out any restrictions to size or breed.
None of these regulations apply to service animals.
The Motel 6 chain not only allows dogs, it doesn’t charge dog owners extra for bringing Sparky. You must declare your dog when you check in, however.
According to the chain’s website, animals that pose a health or safety risk are not allowed, and the manager of each motel has the option to say no if an owner has too many animals, if the dog causes damage to the motel or to other guests’ property, or if the animal is disruptive or overly aggressive.
Rodeway Inn designates specific rooms for dog owners, so verify before booking that rooms are available for you and Fido. The chain requires a veterinary certificate saying the dog is free from parasites and is on a flea and parasite program. Do not leave your dog alone in the room unless he is crated.
Dogs up to 50 pounds are allowed in most La Quinta Inns with no additional fee or pet deposit. If you have more than one dog, check with the motel before booking; individual franchises may have different policies on how many pets are allowed. Housekeeping services can only come into rooms with dogs if an owner is there or if the dog is crated, so plan to take your dog with you during the day or make other arrangements. There are four locations that do not allow pets: San Antonio Conference/Medical Center; Manhattan, New York; Queens, New York; and Monterrey, California.
At Quality Inn, patrons can have up to three dogs with them (at most locations, but not all); dogs cannot be larger than 50 pounds. No veterinary certificate is required to keep your dog. You must declare him when you check in. Dog owners cannot leave their dogs alone in the room unless the animal is crated.
Patrons at most Red Roof Inn can bring one pet with them, unless that breed is prohibited by state or local law. You must declare the pet when you check in, and the dog must be restrained at all times when outside the room. Patrons are not allowed to leave the dog alone in the room.
Super 8 does allow dogs, but charges an additional fee per night. If your dog makes a mess, you’ll be charged even more. Many properties have a limited number of rooms designated for pet owners, so call to ensure one of these rooms is available when you need it.
Don’t try to sneak your dog in, even if the motel is dog-friendly; always declare your dog. Most motels will not allow dogs to be left loose in the room alone, so if you’re planning on leaving the dog for a time, you must crate him. Also verify before leaving on your trip whether any motel requires vaccination or veterinary records proving your dog is healthy and parasite-free.
Remember that motels are tight spaces and people are trying to sleep, so be respectful and keep your dog’s barking, whining and loud playing to a minimum. Always clean up after your dog.
