Understanding the Pet Policy at Days Inn: A Comprehensive Guide for Traveling with Pets

Introduction to Traveling with Pets at Days Inn

For many travelers, bringing a pet along is a necessity rather than a luxury. Days Inn by Wyndham is a prominent mid-range hotel chain with a presence across North America and globally, making it a common choice for those seeking pet-friendly accommodations. However, the question, “Does Days Inn allow pets?” requires a nuanced answer, as policies can vary significantly by location. This guide provides a thorough overview of what pet owners can expect when booking with Days Inn, including typical requirements, fees, and actionable steps to ensure a smooth experience for both you and your furry companion.

General Pet Policy Overview at Days Inn

Days Inn by Wyndham does allow pets at many of its locations , but not all properties are pet-friendly. According to recent travel resources, more than half of the roughly 1,850 Days Inn hotels worldwide accept pets, often welcoming one or two pets of any size per room . Typical pet fees range from free to $50 per night, but these vary by property and region. Some locations may have stricter weight limits, breed restrictions, or a cap on the number of pets allowed. For example, one Days Inn hotel in Fresno, California, allows up to three dogs of any size for a fee of $10 per pet, per night [2] . Other locations, such as Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle, charge a non-refundable $50 fee plus tax per stay [3] .

How to Confirm Pet-Friendly Status for Your Stay

Given the variability in policies, it’s critical to confirm the pet policy for your specific Days Inn location before booking . Pet rules, fees, and amenities can differ not only by city but even among properties in the same area. The following steps will help ensure you and your pet have a smooth check-in experience:

1. Search for Pet-Friendly Locations: Use reputable third-party platforms such as BringFido or Romingo to find and verify pet-friendly Days Inn hotels. These platforms allow you to filter by location and see specific policies, fees, and restrictions for each property [1] [2] . 2. Contact the Hotel Directly: Once you’ve identified a candidate property, call the hotel’s front desk to confirm their most current pet policy. Ask about:

Pet fees (nightly or per stay)
Allowed pet types and sizes
Maximum number of pets per room
Any breed or weight restrictions
Available pet-friendly rooms and amenities

3. Request Written Confirmation: When booking, request written confirmation of the pet policy and any related charges, either via email or as part of your reservation details. This can help avoid misunderstandings at check-in.

Pet Fees, Deposits, and Restrictions Explained

Most Days Inn properties that accept pets charge a nightly fee, which may range from free to $50. Some properties may also require a refundable deposit to cover potential damages. Fees are typically assessed per pet, per night, though some locations offer a flat fee per stay. For example, the Days Inn by Wyndham Fresno South charges $10 per pet, per night, while Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle assesses a $50 non-refundable fee [2] [3] .

Restrictions may also include:

Weight limits: Some locations set maximum weights (e.g., 50 lbs per dog), while others allow pets of any size.
Number of pets: The standard is one or two pets per room, but some hotels permit three.
Types of animals: Dogs are most commonly accepted, though some hotels also allow cats. Exotic animals are typically not permitted.

It’s essential to verify these restrictions with your chosen location, as violating them could result in additional fees or refusal of service.

What to Expect at Check-In and During Your Stay

Upon arrival, pet owners are usually required to sign a pet waiver, acknowledging responsibility for any damages or disturbances caused by their animals. Some properties provide amenities such as pet welcome bags, dog treats, or guides to local pet-friendly attractions. For example, Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle offers a welcome bag with a dog bone and waste bags [3] .

Many Days Inn locations provide designated pet relief areas, often grassy spaces near the hotel entrance, to make it easy for guests to walk their pets. Some hotels go further by offering dog-friendly guides to the local area, suggesting nearby parks, beaches, or pet-friendly restaurants.

During your stay, it’s important to adhere to the hotel’s pet rules:

Do not leave pets unattended: Many hotels require that pets not be left alone in rooms, or only if crated. Violating this policy could result in penalties, as some guests have reported key deactivation or being required to board their pet elsewhere at their own expense [5] .
Keep pets leashed in common areas: Pets should be on a leash or in a carrier at all times outside your room.
Clean up after your pet: Always use provided waste bags and dispose of pet waste properly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Pet-Friendly Stay at Days Inn

To ensure a positive experience when traveling with your pet, follow these steps:

Start by searching for pet-friendly Days Inn locations using trusted travel websites like BringFido or Romingo. These sites provide up-to-date information on fees, restrictions, and amenities [1] [2] .
Contact your chosen hotel directly to confirm policies, fees, and availability of pet-friendly rooms. Policies can change, so direct verification is crucial.
Ask for written confirmation of the pet policy and include it in your reservation details.
Prepare for your stay by packing essentials such as your pet’s food, bedding, leash, waste bags, and proof of vaccinations (some hotels may require this).
At check-in, review and sign any pet agreements, pay the required fees, and ask about available pet amenities or relief areas.
During your stay, adhere strictly to hotel rules regarding pets to avoid penalties or additional charges.

Alternative Approaches and What to Do If Your Preferred Location Is Not Pet-Friendly

If your preferred Days Inn location does not allow pets, consider the following alternatives:

Use third-party platforms to locate other Days Inn hotels in the area that do accept pets.
Look into other pet-friendly hotel brands, such as La Quinta, Red Roof Inn, or Motel 6, which typically have consistent pet-friendly policies.
Consider local boarding or pet-sitting services for your pet if you must stay at a non-pet-friendly location.

If you require accommodations for an emotional support animal (ESA) or service animal , note that federal law may provide additional protections, and hotels are generally required to accommodate service animals without additional fees. However, ESAs are not always covered under these rules, and you should confirm policies in advance.

Practical Tips for a Hassle-Free Stay with Your Pet

Traveling with a pet requires extra planning. Here are some practical tips:

Bring familiar items from home to help your pet feel comfortable, such as blankets, toys, or their regular food.
Request a ground-floor room if possible, as it makes bathroom breaks more convenient.
Inspect the room upon arrival for any hazards or temptations for your pet, such as loose wires or leftover food.
Be considerate of other guests by minimizing noise from your pet, especially in the evening hours.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Many Days Inn locations are pet-friendly, but policies vary widely by property. Pet owners should always confirm specific hotel policies before booking, including fees, restrictions, and amenities. Use trusted travel resources and direct contact with the hotel to ensure your stay is hassle-free. By following these guidelines, you and your pet can enjoy a comfortable and welcoming experience at Days Inn or another suitable pet-friendly hotel.