Pet-Friendly
Properties Cater
to Both Pets and People
(continued)
Family-friendly atmosphere
Although Twelfth Night Inn B&B in Staunton, Virginia was
named one of the "Best (inns) Where Pets Are Welcome" in
Arrington's 2003 Book of Lists, Innkeeper/Co-owner Juliette
Swenson said that "family-friendly" is more apt.
Children of any age are welcome, as are dogs, cats, and birds.
No doubt guests appreciate amenities like the use of a refrigerator
for left-over pet food; a complementary bed comforter; and
a back garden that adjoins a soccer field where dogs can run.
Special touches like asking a pet's name when the reservation
is made so they can be purr-sonally welcomed also sit well
with guests.
Pets are welcome in Twelfth Night's two suites and one guestroom,
but aren't allowed to stay alone to avoid disturbing others,
Juliette said. Asking guests to be considerate has eliminated
problems.
"Most are veteran travelers and are so appreciative that pets
are welcome," she added.
Twelfth Night, a 1904 Edwardian house with wraparound veranda,
is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the new
Shakespearean theater. Cat lovers not traveling with a feline
friend will enjoy the inn's two resident cats, Puck and Tutu.
PET TRAVEL TIPS:
• When making reservations at your property of choice, always
confirm that pets are still welcome and jot down the name of
the individual with whom you spoke. Just because the property
was listed as pet-friendly in a guidebook or on the web, ownership
or management could have changed, and along with it, their
policy towards pets. Also check out whether you'll be charged
extra for having a pet in your room; if there's a security
deposit or non-refundable fee to cover any damage, abnormal
wear and tear or extra clean-up; and if pets are welcome in
every guestroom or just certain ones.
• Pack a picture of you with your pet to establish ownership
should your pet get out or lost.
• Make sure your pet's ID tag includes the address and telephone
number of where you'll be staying, as well as your permanent
residence.
• Because changes in water can be just as upsetting to pets
as it is to people, switch to a bottled brand before your trip
that is available both at home as well as where you'll be vacationing.
• If daily walks/runs are part of your pet's routine, check
in advance to locate the best and safest places to get exercise.
• Ask whether a Pet Welcome Kit includes relevant and nearby
pet services, such as pet-sitters, pet-walkers, pet superstores,
groomers, etc. If not, try and locate that information ahead
of time so it's handy if and when needed.
