For many hotels, “pet-friendly” still comes with an asterisk: an extra $50, $75, or even $150 per stay. On paper, these fees cover cleaning or liability. But from a guest’s perspective, they often feel like a penalty or a reminder that bringing their pet is an inconvenience, not a welcome.
Think about it:
- Guests rarely see a line item for “extra cleaning” after kids.
- No surcharge for emotional support when a guest brings their partner.
- Yet pets who are increasingly treated as family get an added bill.
This isn’t just about dollars. It’s about perception. UHNW and luxury travelers expect their pets to be part of the journey. When they’re charged like luggage, the message is clear: Your pet is tolerated, not valued.
Smart hotels are flipping the script. Instead of fees, they’re weaving pets into the luxury promise: curated welcome kits, pet amenities that match the brand’s standard, and genuine hospitality extended to every family member four-legged or two.
Because in 2025, the question isn’t “Are you pet-friendly?”
It’s “Do you make pets feel like they belong?”

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