Pet Fees???

[Jessica4082]

Hello?

Just wondering how everyone charges for pet fees? One standard price per stay? Per night?

I currently host a group of cabins up north Wisconsin. I do allow 1 dog only per cabin and I have been charging $50 per stay. However if the guest is staying for a week, and/or has a pet with excessive shedding, this is a huge problem since it takes alot longer for cleaning. I am trying to keep this all simple and not having to go back to charge extra cleaning to the guests.

Any suggestions are much appreciated!

[Alicia753 · Accepted solution]

Hi Jessica,

To manage pet fees for your cabins, you might consider implementing a tiered or flexible pet fee structure that accounts for both the length of stay and the type of pet shedding. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Per Night Pet Fee: Instead of a flat $50 per stay, charge a nightly rate for pets. For example, $10-$15 per night. This will better cover longer stays, which require more cleaning.

2. Tiered Flat Fee: Continue with a flat fee, but create tiers based on the length of stay. For example, $50 for up to 3 nights, $75 for up to 7 nights, etc.

3. Excessive Shedding Fee: Mention in your listing that excessive shedding or heavy cleaning due to pets will result in an additional cleaning fee. You could assess this based on the condition after check-out.

4. Pet Agreement: Have guests sign a pet policy agreement acknowledging potential additional cleaning fees for excessive hair or damage, helping to set clear expectations.

This should help simplify the process and ensure you cover extra cleaning costs when needed.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

Upfish Management

[Jessica4082]

Thank for your suggestions! I do like your ideas! Thank you!

[Karen4131]

Hi @Jessica4082 

I have a cabin with a large property—around 7.4 acres of lake and forest—the perfect spot for pets. I generally don’t allow pets, but people occasionally ask if they can bring their dog, and we work out an arrangement.

My workaround has been to remove the cleaning fee (and raise my nightly rate to balance it out), and it works perfectly. When guests want to bring their dog, we agree that they will do an extra thorough cleaning themselves, and their dog is more than welcome. In my experience, people are so happy to bring their pets that the house ends up sparkling clean when they leave. I’ve never had an issue with dog hair everywhere, and it’s worked surprisingly well.

That’s just my take on it, and it’s been a great solution for me!

Best regards,

Karen

[Elisa]

Hi @Jessica4082 😊

I’m happy that one of these answers helped you!

Would you mind marking one as the "Top Answer"?

It's like a big virtual hug to the member who supported you but also to support other Hosts who may have similar questions in the future. 😊

Warm regards🌻,