Lifestyle

Pet-Friendly Adventures: Exploring Canada's Best Airbnb Stays with Your Furry Companion

Key Points
  • Pet-friendly Airbnbs offer convenient accommodation options for travelers with pets.
  • Booking pet-friendly accommodations in advance ensures a smooth trip with your pet.
  • Many Airbnbs welcome pets, but always check the host pet policy before booking.

Canada's diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to majestic mountains, offer endless adventures for you and your four-legged friend. Luckily, finding the perfect pet-friendly home base for your explorations is easier than ever with Airbnb.

Here's a curated selection of pet-friendly Airbnb gems across Canada's territories, with a focus on unique experiences and comfort for both you and your pet:

Ontario

  • Secluded Lakeside Cabin: Escape with your furry best friend to this private haven in Rodney, Ontario. Unwind in the swim spa, savor lakeside meals in the outdoor cooking area, and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Bonus: Wi-Fi keeps you connected when needed.

British Columbia

  • Rustic Treehouse: Immerse yourself and your pup in the magic of the forest at this pet-friendly treehouse in Sooke, B.C. Discover a unique blend of rural charm, lush woods, and ocean views. After a day of adventure, unwind in the outdoor tub or gather around the cozy propane firepit.

New Brunswick

  • Homestead Cottage: Step back in time at this charming century-old homestead cottage in Renous, New Brunswick. Nestled in a private setting where two rivers meet, enjoy hiking, fishing, and winter sports surrounded by picturesque scenery.

Prince Edward Island

  • Earth House in PEI: Experience a completely sustainable and pet-friendly getaway in this one-of-a-kind Earth House in Wellington, PEI. Connect with nature just minutes from beaches, trails, and all the charm of the island.

Quebec

  • A Floating Home: Experience a unique getaway on this floating home in Château-Richer, Quebec. Ideal for all seasons, it offers privacy, room for four guests (pets welcome with a fee), and breathtaking mountain and water views.

Pet Travel Essentials

  • The Basics:

    • Food and water (enough for the trip plus extra)

    • Food and water bowls

    • Leash and collar/harness with updated ID tags

    • Travel carrier (appropriate size and airline-approved if flying)

    • Familiar blanket or toy for comfort

    • Waste bags

  • For Long Trips:

    • Medications and copies of veterinary records

    • Pet first-aid kit

    • Any specialized gear (life jacket for water activities, booties for rough terrain)

  • Finding Pet-Friendly Travel:

    • Airlines: Check individual airline websites for pet policies, fees, and carrier requirements. Know more about pet-friendly airlines here.

    • Road Trips: Websites like BringFido (https://www.bringfido.com/) is great for planning dog-friendly routes, hotels, and activities.

Veterinarian Access on the Road

  • Why it Matters: Unfamiliar places can bring unexpected pet health issues. Allergies, minor injuries, or flare-ups of existing conditions can happen on vacation.

  • Pre-Trip Preparation:

    • Ask your regular vet if they have recommendations in your destination area.

    • Pack copies of your pet's medical records for easy access.

  • Finding Vets in a Pinch:

    • Online directories like the American Animal Hospital Association (https://www.aaha.org/) have searchable vet locators.

    • Search "[Location] Emergency Animal Hospital" for 24-hour care options.

    • Call your Airbnb host – they might have local recommendations.

Packing for Your Pet

  • Essential Gear:

    • Collapsible food and water bowls for easy travel.

    • Portable water bottle for hydration on the go.

    • Basic pet first-aid kit (gauze, antiseptic wipes, etc.)

  • Weather Considerations:

    • Cooling jacket or bandana for hot climates.

    • Dog booties for snow, ice, or hot pavement.

    • Raincoat or waterproof jacket for wet weather.

  • Comfort Items:

    • A favorite toy or two to ease anxiety in new places.

    • Treats and chews provide entertainment and distraction during travel.

A well-prepared traveler is a happy traveler - especially when it comes to your furry companion. By packing smart, researching vets, and choosing the right Airbnb, you'll create a stress-free and unforgettable Canadian getaway for both you and your pet.

Sources

“These are the Best Dog-Friendly Airbnbs Across Canada,” HGTV, https://www.hgtv.ca/dog-friendly-airbnbs-canada/, Sep. 19, 2023.

“10 Best Pet-Friendly Airbnbs in Canada,” Trip101, https://trip101.com/article/airbnb-canada-pet-friendly, Nov. 28, 2023.

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