You’ve set up your Orlando vacation rental. The photos look great. The amenities are solid. But bookings? They’re just… okay.
Here’s something that might surprise you: one simple adjustment could attract more guests, increase your nightly rates, and give you a serious edge over the competition. The secret? Welcoming pets.
Over half of all travelers want to bring their furry companions along. Yet many vacation rentals still say “no pets allowed,” which means those properties miss out on a massive pool of eager guests willing to pay more for pet-friendly stays.
If you’re looking to boost occupancy, earn higher revenue, and stand out in Orlando’s crowded short-term rental market, making your property pet-friendly might be the smartest move you haven’t made yet.
The Business Case for Allowing Pets in Your Orlando Rental
Let’s talk numbers. Pet-friendly rentals earn an average of $204 per available night, compared to $165 for non-pet-friendly properties. That’s a 24% revenue boost without adding square footage or renovating your kitchen.
But the benefits go beyond nightly rates. When you open your doors to pets, you:
Capture a Less Saturated Market
Most travelers start their search by filtering for “pet-friendly.” If your listing doesn’t have that box checked, you’re not even showing up on their radar. By allowing pets, you automatically stand out in a smaller pool of competition while still appearing in searches for guests without animals.
Fill Your Calendar During Slow Seasons
Orlando’s off-peak months can leave vacation rentals sitting empty. But 7 in 10 pet parents say they’re more likely to travel if their pet can come along. That means pet-friendly homes have a built-in advantage when it comes to filling those mid-week gaps or slower seasons.
Attract Longer Stays and Repeat Guests
Families traveling with pets tend to book longer trips. Why? Because finding pet-friendly accommodations takes effort, they’re more likely to return. Happy pet parents become loyal guests who leave glowing reviews and recommend your property to friends.
How to Make Your Orlando Rental Pet-Friendly (Without the Stress)
You don’t need to install a doggy spa or turn your backyard into a canine obstacle course. A few thoughtful upgrades and clear policies will protect your investment while attracting pet-loving guests.
Choose Durable, Easy-to-Clean Materials
Swap out that light-colored shag rug for washable area rugs or stain-resistant flooring. Leather furniture or tightly woven fabrics hold up better against scratches and fur. Laminate, tile, or vinyl flooring in high-traffic areas makes cleanup simple. And mattress protectors? Non-negotiable, even if you’re not allowing pets on beds, accidents happen.
Set Up a Designated Pet Zone
Create a space where pets feel welcome. Leave out food and water bowls, a cozy pet bed with a washable cover, and a few inexpensive toys. A fenced yard or easy outdoor access is a huge selling point. Don’t forget poop bags and a waste station if you have outdoor space.
Stock Pet Amenities That Wow Guests
Small touches go a long way. Consider leaving:
- Pet towels for muddy paws
- A tote with pet-specific cleaning supplies
- A welcome basket with treats and a chew toy
- Information on nearby dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants, and emergency vets
Establish Clear Pet Policies
A well-defined pet policy protects your property and sets expectations. Include details like:
- Pet type, size, and breed restrictions (if any)
- Maximum number of pets allowed
- Rules for cleanup and waste disposal
- Areas of the home that are off-limits
- Any HOA or neighborhood leash laws
Should You Charge a Pet Fee?
Most pet-friendly vacation rentals in Orlando charge either a flat fee (typically $50–$100 per stay) or a nightly rate (around $10–$50 per night). This covers additional cleaning costs and protects against potential damage.
But here’s the catch: enforcing pet fees can be tricky. Guests sometimes forget to mention they’re bringing a pet, and following up after checkout can be frustrating.
That’s why many Orlando hosts are switching to damage protection programs that automatically cover pet-related incidents. No chasing down payments required.
How to Market Your Pet-Friendly Orlando Rental
Once your property is ready for four-legged guests, it’s time to spread the word. Use relevant keywords throughout your listing. Terms like “pet-friendly vacation rentals in Orlando,” “dog-friendly Airbnb,” and “Orlando pet-friendly home” help you show up in search results.
Include photos of your outdoor space, pet amenities, and any nearby parks or trails. Mention pet-friendly features in your property description and highlight them in your amenities list. The more specific you are, the easier it is for pet parents to picture their furry friend enjoying your space.
And don’t forget reviews. Ask satisfied guests to mention how accommodating your property was for their pets. Those testimonials build trust with future guests searching for the perfect pet-friendly stay.
Get More Bookings with the Right Strategy
Allowing pets in your Orlando vacation rental isn’t just about being nice to animals (though that’s a bonus). It’s a smart business move that increases occupancy, boosts revenue, and attracts loyal guests.
Want to see exactly how much more your property could earn as a pet-friendly rental? Get a free revenue projection from the experts at FunStay Florida.
Mike Chen and his team specialize in helping Orlando hosts maximize bookings and optimize pricing, whether you’re welcoming pets or not.
Contact FunStay Florida today for a free consultation and discover how pet-friendly policies can transform your rental income.
