Declining only because they have a pet and our posting clearly does not allow pets

[Kelly-and-Ronda0]

Any thoughts on how to get a decline to "not count against us" when the decline is only due to someone asking us to waive our house rules (ex: allow a pet)?

[Emiel1]

@Kelly-and-Ronda0 

If it is an inquiry, just answer the question and do nothing more (pre-approve or decline is not obliged)

If it is a request, answer the question and also ask guest to withdraw the request. (If not withdrawn within the time limit, then no other option left to decline yourself).

Best regards,

Emiel

[Emilia42]

@Kelly-and-Ronda0, If the guest is simply inquiring, you do not need to pre-approve or decline. You only need to respond to maintain your response rate.

If the guest is requesting to book then I would ask them to cancel their own request since pets are not allow. OR you could accept them and tell them you would be happy to host them without their pet and under no circumstances is the pet allowed in the house. If they would still rather bring their pet they can cancel within the next 48 hours for a full refund and book another Airbnb, which allows animals.