The Pet Policy In An Airbnb Rental Property

Hosts Making Their Properties Pet-Friendly

A significant percentage of hosts make their properties pet-friendly because it allows them to accommodate all kinds of guests, which translates to a competitive advantage and, in turn, more revenue. Pet-friendly properties have a higher rate, as guests are always willing to pay more, provided they have their whole family around.

Pet-friendly Airbnb properties generally have more positive reviews, especially when a host adds specific features to accommodate the pets, such as treats or toys.

However, allowing pets on an Airbnb property has drawbacks as well. For instance, they can cause property damage by chewing furniture or scratching the floor. 

Airbnb hosts who allow pets usually go the extra mile to prevent such damage in the first place by providing pet-friendly furniture covers, a scratching post, a litter box, and enough cleaning supplies. They charge a pet fee to cover cleaning and any other damage.

The Airbnb damage policy also protects hosts from potential damages caused by pets and other factors.

Rules Concerning Service Animals 

Since service animals are not considered pets, Airbnb requires its hosts, including those who don’t allow pets, to accommodate guests with such animals. Owners of service animals are also not required to pay pet fees or be subjected to different house rules. 

The guest should ensure their service animal is not out of control, left alone on the property without prior approval, going to areas not authorized to the guest, or going to a public space without the guest’s control.

In some instances, a host may decline to accommodate a guest with a service animal. For example, when they prove that the service animal directly poses a health or safety threat.

A host treating you unfairly or asking “inappropriate questions” about your service animal may be unlawful. Book your free consultation now to determine if your rights were violated.

Rules Concerning Emotional Support Animals

When it comes to emotional support animals (ESA), the respective jurisdiction determines the rules. A host may accept or decline a guest on the grounds of having an ESA and may or may not charge pet fees.    

House Rules In Pet-Friendly Properties

When you find a pet-friendly property, look at the house rules to avoid costly mistakes. An Airbnb has standard rules, but hosts typically include their own.

These rules will specify the number of pets, the specific breeds, and the types of pets allowed. They will also state the areas in the property where the pet(s) is not allowed, when a pet should be leashed, and where to properly dispose of pet waste.

Some hosts only allow dogs and cats, and some prohibit aggressive dog breeds. Some hosts even ask guests to provide proof of flea treatment and vaccination. 

Ensure you are adequately informed before making payments. Call the host if you need additional information or clarification about a matter.

Many hosts include visible signage with pet rules to remind guests throughout their stay.

Also, look at the guidebook. The guidebook of a host who accepts pets will include nearby pet supply stores, local dog parks, veterinarians, pet-sitting services, kennels, and other helpful details.

Airbnb Pet Policy Violation

Anything that goes against the house rules can be considered an Airbnb pet policy violation. Going with your pet to a “no pets” house is a violation. Breaking the house rules of a pet-friendly property can also be a violation. 

If a host can prove you violated the pet policy for the rental property, you may pay an additional fee. 

The host may forward your case to Airbnb, who may take further steps, including suspending or removing you from the platform, particularly if you have prior cases.

However, hosts should uphold Airbnb guest rights. They should ensure their properties are safe and clean for guests and pets. If a host fails to provide a safe environment, resulting in an injury to you and/or your pet, schedule a consultation with our team to determine the best way forward.

Call a Premises Liability Attorney

Not all hosts protect the Airbnb guest’s legal rights. You may rent the property of a negligent owner. Consequently, you may sustain an injury on the property, which may also be the case with your pet if you travel with one. 
If this is your experience, call a Las Vegas premises liability attorney to obtain more information about your case. If a host accuses you of property damage caused by your pet, your attorney can investigate the case to reduce or eliminate your liability. Call 702-382-0000 to protect yourself.

Sources:

Accessibility Policy. (n.d.).

Ground rules for guests. (n.d.).

Santos, D. (2024). Opening Doors to Pet Lovers: Pros and Cons of Pet-Friendly Airbnb. 

What you need to know about hosting pets. (2021).