When planning a trip with your furry companion, choosing the right place to stay becomes as important as the destination itself. Whether you’re looking at mountain cabins, city lofts, or beachside escapes, the rise in pet travel means more hotels are opening their doors to dogs. If Myrtle Beach is on your radar, you’ll find plenty of dog friendly hotels Myrtle Beach travelers love—but how do you know which one is right for you and your pup?
To help you navigate this decision, we’ve outlined the key questions every dog owner should ask before confirming that reservation. Not all dog-friendly accommodations are created equal, and a pet-welcome sign doesn’t always mean a pet-welcoming experience. Here’s how to make sure your next hotel stay is truly pet-approved.
What Is the Hotel’s Pet Policy?
Start with the basics. Ask for the hotel’s complete pet policy—not just whether they “allow dogs.” Some properties only accept small breeds, while others place restrictions on weight, number of pets per room, or specific dog breeds.
Key questions
- Is there a weight limit or breed restriction?
- How many dogs can stay per room?
- Are pets allowed in all room types or only designated ones?
- Are other animals (like cats) permitted, or is it dog-only?
Clarity on this upfront helps avoid surprises at check-in or, even worse, being turned away after a long road trip.
What Fees Are Involved?
Even dog-friendly properties often charge additional fees for pets. These can range from refundable deposits to nightly charges or one-time cleaning fees. Transparency is crucial when budgeting your stay.
Ask
- Is there a pet fee? If so, is it per night or stay?
- Is the fee refundable if there’s no damage?
- Are there additional cleaning charges?
Some hotels may include pet amenities in these fees, so it’s worth weighing the value—not just the price.
What Amenities Are Available for Dogs?
A truly pet-centric hotel will go beyond allowing dogs and accommodate their needs. Some provide dog beds, bowls, treats, or even a welcome kit upon arrival. Others offer amenities like outdoor play areas or pet-sitting services.
Questions to consider
- Are dog beds, bowls, or treats provided?
- Is there an on-site dog park or green space?
- Does the hotel offer grooming, walking, or sitting services?
- Can I request food or water delivery for my pet?
Thoughtful touches make a big difference. If a hotel makes your pet feel like a valued guest, it’s a sign of genuine hospitality.
Can My Dog Be Left Alone in the Room?
This one varies significantly. Some hotels allow dogs to stay alone in the room as long as they’re crated or well-behaved. Others may prohibit pets from being left unattended entirely.
Make sure to ask
- Can I leave my dog in the room alone?
- Are there requirements (e.g., crate use or notifying the front desk)?
- Is housekeeping allowed to enter when pets are in the room?
This is crucial if you plan to explore attractions that aren’t dog-friendly. You’ll want to ensure your dog is safe and secure—and that you’re not violating any rules.
Where Can I Walk My Dog?
Location is everything, especially when it comes to outdoor time. Find out if there are pet-friendly walking areas nearby or if your dog can stroll on hotel grounds.
Consider asking
- Is there a designated pet relief area?
- Are poop bags and disposal bins provided?
- Are dogs allowed on nearby beaches, parks, or trails?
In places like Myrtle Beach, many public beaches only allow dogs during specific hours or seasons. A hotel with easy access to dog-friendly paths is a major plus.
Are There Any Restrictions on Hotel Grounds?
Just because a hotel allows dogs doesn’t mean they’re allowed everywhere. Many properties limit pets to guest rooms and certain outdoor spaces. Others may ban them from common areas like lobbies, pools, or restaurants.
Ask the front desk
- Are pets allowed in the lobby or outdoor patios?
- Can dogs join you in hotel restaurants or bars?
- Are elevators pet-friendly or must you use the stairs?
Knowing the boundaries helps you and your dog stay within the hotel’s comfort zone—and prevents awkward run-ins with other guests.
How Dog-Friendly Is the Surrounding Area?
While hotel policies matter, so does the neighborhood. You’ll want to ensure there are dog-friendly places nearby where your pup can play, eat, and explore.
Check out
- Are there nearby dog parks, trails, or beaches?
- Are restaurants in the area pet-friendly?
- Is the neighborhood walkable and safe for pets?
For example, many dog-friendly hotels that Myrtle Beach tourists choose are conveniently located near outdoor cafes, pet shops, and sandy stretches where pups can run free. That proximity can elevate your entire vacation experience.
What Safety Measures Are in Place?
Safety matters, especially when you’re traveling in a new place. A responsible hotel will have clear protocols to ensure the well-being of both guests and their pets.
Ask hotel staff
- Are there emergency veterinary clinics nearby?
- Are hotel doors and balconies pet-secure?
- What’s the process if your dog gets lost or runs off?
It’s comforting to know that a hotel is prepared to help in case of a pet-related emergency. Their level of preparedness often reflects how seriously they take pet guests.
Is the Staff Pet-Friendly?
Sometimes, it’s not about the policy—it’s about the people. A staff member who loves pets will go the extra mile to ensure your dog feels welcome. From greeting your pup by name to offering a scratch behind the ears, small gestures show a big heart.
Watch for
- Staff asking questions about your dog during booking
- Pet-focused welcome notes or signage
- Willingness to offer local pet-friendly recommendations
A hotel may have every box checked on paper, but if the atmosphere doesn’t feel warm toward pets, it’s not truly dog-friendly.
How Are Noise and Allergies Handled?
Dogs bark. That’s just part of the deal. But in a shared lodging space, it’s important to find out how hotels balance the needs of pet owners with other guests.
Clarify the following
- Are dog-friendly rooms located in a separate wing or floor?
- Is soundproofing a consideration?
- How does the hotel address allergies or complaints?
A hotel that plans for noise and allergens is showing that it cares for all its guests—two-legged and four.
What’s the Booking Process for Pet Rooms?
Dog-friendly rooms may be limited, so always confirm availability in advance. Some hotels require a separate reservation process or documentation of vaccinations.
Be sure to ask
- Can I reserve a pet-friendly room online or by phone?
- Are vaccination records or waivers required?
- What is the cancellation policy for pet reservations?
Knowing this upfront can prevent last-minute stress or disappointment. A smooth booking process also speaks volumes about how much a hotel values pet travelers.
Are There Any Pet-Centric Events or Activities?
Some dog-friendly hotels go the extra mile by hosting pet events—think yappy hours, adoption fairs, or dog yoga on the lawn. These perks may not be standard, but they sure are memorable.
Look into
- Are there any seasonal or recurring pet events?
- Does the hotel partner with local pet services?
- Are there social media groups for guests with dogs?
These kinds of experiences make travel more enriching—not just for humans but for dogs, too.
Why Choose Romingo?
At Romingo, we believe dogs aren’t just pets—they’re family. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to connect pet parents with truly dog-welcoming accommodations across the country. We don’t just list hotels that allow dogs. We spotlight those that celebrate them.
Our curated collection of dog-friendly stays—including standout options in places like Myrtle Beach—is built around trust, transparency, and comfort. We ask the right questions, so you don’t have to. Every hotel on our platform is carefully vetted to ensure pet policies are clear, staff are dog-lovers, and amenities go above and beyond.
Whether you’re planning a beachside escape, a cross-country road trip, or a cozy weekend in the mountains, Romingo makes finding the perfect stay easy, reliable, and tail-waggingly fun.
Because you and your pup deserve more than just a hotel. You deserve a welcome.