How to Create a Pet-Friendly Airbnb in Sunshine Coast

If you’re looking to boost bookings for your Sunshine Coast Airbnb, making it pet-friendly can open up a whole new world of potential guests. With more Sunshine Coast pet owners wanting to travel with their furry friends, creating the perfect pet accommodation is key. But you can’t just put up a “Pets Welcome” sign and hope for the best. There’s a bit more to it.

From establishing clear pet policies to setting up spaces that are safe for animals, running a pet-friendly Airbnb takes a little planning. You’ll need to consider what pet owners are looking for when choosing a place to stay. Plus, if you’ve got Airbnb property management in place, there are steps they can take to help maintain the property and ensure it stays pet-friendly without too much extra effort.

Let’s dive in and go through the steps needed to transform your Airbnb into a pet-friendly haven on the Sunshine Coast.

Why Make Your Airbnb Pet-Friendly?

In Australia, pets are part of the family. According to recent studies, about 61% of households have pets, with many people unwilling to leave their furry companions behind when they travel. On the Sunshine Coast, it’s common to see holidaymakers with their dogs or cats in tow. By allowing pets, you can increase your booking rate and attract a larger audience. But, there’s more to it than just saying “pets allowed.”

The benefits of a pet-friendly Airbnb include:

• More bookings: Many pet owners struggle to find pet-friendly options. Offering this makes your property stand out.
• Longer stays: Travellers with pets tend to book longer stays, as they don’t want to disrupt their pets with constant travel.
• Repeat business: Pet owners who find a great place will return, knowing their pets are welcome.

Setting Clear Pet Policies

Before you open your doors to pets, it’s essential to set clear pet policies. This helps you manage expectations and keep your property in good condition. It’s also a good idea to outline these policies in your listing description so potential guests know exactly what to expect. Here’s what you should consider:

• Pet fees: Will you charge an extra fee for pets? Many hosts add a small charge for additional cleaning or potential damage.
• Size or breed restrictions: Some owners may only want small pets, while others allow larger breeds. Be specific if there are any restrictions.
• Number of pets allowed: Set a limit on the number of pets per stay to avoid overcrowding.
• House rules: Include basic rules such as not allowing pets on furniture or specifying areas where pets aren’t allowed (e.g., bedrooms or the pool area).

By having these policies in place, both you and your guests will know where everyone stands.

Creating a Pet-Friendly Space

Once you’ve got your pet policies sorted, the next step is to set up your space to accommodate pets. A few thoughtful changes can make a big difference, ensuring both pets and owners have a comfortable stay.

Pet-Proofing the Property

Pets can sometimes be a bit rough on a property. To minimise damage and keep the space looking fresh, consider these tips:

• Durable flooring: Opt for floors that can handle wear and tear, like tile or laminate. These are easier to clean and won’t show scratches.
• Washable fabrics: Choose furniture coverings that are easy to clean. Pet hair, mud, and accidents can happen, so having removable, washable covers is a smart move.
• Secure outdoor space: Many pet owners will want to know if there’s a fenced area where their pets can safely roam. A secure garden is a big plus for dog owners.

Providing Pet Amenities

To really wow your guests, you can go the extra mile by offering pet-specific amenities. These don’t need to be expensive but can make a huge difference.

• Pet beds: A comfortable pet bed in the living room or bedroom is a great touch.
• Food and water bowls: Providing clean bowls will save guests the hassle of bringing their own.
• Pet toys: Leave a few chew toys or balls for the pets to play with.
• Outdoor hose: Pets, especially dogs, can get dirty. An outdoor hose or shower area for rinsing them off is a helpful addition.

These small details show pet owners that you’ve thought about their needs.

Marketing Your Pet-Friendly Airbnb

Once your property is ready to welcome pets, you’ll need to make sure potential guests know about it. Here’s how to market your pet accommodation effectively:

• Update your listing: Make it clear in your Airbnb listing title and description that pets are welcome. Use phrases like “pet-friendly,” “perfect for pets,” or “pets allowed” to catch the eye of pet owners.
• Highlight nearby pet-friendly attractions: If your Airbnb is close to dog-friendly beaches, parks, or cafes, mention this in your listing. Travellers often look for these kinds of activities when travelling with their pets.
• Add pet-friendly photos: Take pictures of your property that showcase how great it is for pets. Show the fenced yard, the dog bed, or the nearby walking paths.

Managing Your Pet-Friendly Airbnb

Running a pet-friendly Airbnb might require a bit more effort, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are a few tips to keep everything running smoothly.

Cleaning Tips

Pets bring a bit of extra mess, so keeping things clean is crucial for maintaining a high guest rating. Follow these tips:

• Invest in a good vacuum: A strong vacuum cleaner that handles pet hair is a must.
• Use odour-neutralising sprays: Even the best-behaved pets can leave a smell. Keep odour-neutralising sprays or plug-ins around to keep the space fresh.
• Regular deep cleaning: Plan for a deeper clean after every few bookings, especially if multiple pets have stayed.

Communication with Guests

It’s important to communicate clearly with guests about your pet policies and any extra fees. You can also remind them of the house rules before they arrive. Clear communication ensures that everyone is on the same page and reduces misunderstandings.

FAQs about Pet-Friendly Airbnbs

Do I need to charge a pet deposit?

While not mandatory, a pet deposit is a good way to cover any potential damage. You can also choose to charge a non-refundable pet fee instead, which can go towards cleaning costs.

What if a pet causes damage?

If a pet damages your property, Airbnb offers a Host Guarantee that can help cover the cost of repairs. It’s still a good idea to take precautions, like keeping valuable or breakable items out of reach.

Can I allow pets but still restrict certain areas of the home?

Yes, you can set boundaries. Make it clear in your house rules which areas are off-limits, like bedrooms or certain outdoor spaces. Use gates or barriers to block these areas if necessary.

How do I prevent pet allergies for other guests?

Make sure you clean thoroughly between stays. Regular deep cleans, odour-neutralising sprays, and air purifiers can help minimise allergens. You can also mention in your listing that pets stay in your property, so guests with severe allergies are aware.

Keep Your Property Booked and Pet-Friendly with BNB Booking

If you’re ready to make your Sunshine Coast Airbnb pet-friendly, it might feel like a lot of work at first. But the rewards are well worth it. By creating a welcoming environment for pets, you’ll attract more bookings and increase your property’s appeal. Plus, happy pet owners often lead to repeat bookings and glowing reviews.

If you’re looking for support in managing your pet-friendly property, BNB Booking can help. We provide top-quality Airbnb property management services, ensuring your property is well-maintained while keeping guests – and their pets – satisfied. Reach out to them today to see how they can help boost your bookings.

Please call us at BNB Booking today on 1300 146 514 to learn more or leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.