If you own a short-term rental in Michigan, you may be wondering whether allowing pets is a good idea. While some hosts worry about potential damage or extra cleaning, the benefits of making your rental pet-friendly can far outweigh the drawbacks. From increasing your booking rates to attracting more loyal guests, here’s why welcoming furry companions can be a smart business move.
Pet-friendly accommodations appeal to a large and growing market. According to Forbes, 66% of U.S. households own a pet. In fact, the National Association of Realtors found there are more American households with pets than children. Furthermore, a study by TripAdvisor found that 53% of respondents travel with their pets, and 52% will only consider pet friendly accommodations. Many pet owners specifically search for rentals that allow their four-legged family members, meaning your listing will automatically stand out in search filters.
By catering to pet owners, you can boost your occupancy rates and even charge higher nightly rates. Many travelers are willing to pay a pet fee or security deposit in exchange for a pet-friendly stay. According to KeyData, pet friendly rentals command higher prices, have higher occupancy rates, and generate more revenue than rentals that don't allow pets.
In popular vacation spots like South Haven, Saugatuck, or Traverse City, competition among short-term rentals can be tough. Offering a pet-friendly home helps differentiate your property from others that don’t allow pets. Guests searching for this specific feature will be more likely to book your rental over non-pet-friendly options.
Pet-friendly rentals often receive more repeat bookings since pet owners are loyal to places where their animals feel welcome. Guests are also more likely to leave positive reviews, which can improve your rental’s ranking on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.
Michigan’s peak tourism season is summer, but a pet-friendly policy can help fill gaps in the off-season. Since many travelers prefer road trips with their pets, offering pet accommodations can attract guests even in slower winter months.
