The best pet-friendly hotels in the US

Alyssa Powell/Business Insider

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• As hotels begin to reopen following shutdowns due to the novel coronavirus, more and more boutique and high-end accommodations are making it easy to overnight with four-legged friends.
• Pet-friendly perks include plush pet beds, fresh-baked dog treats, in-house dog parks, and even "yappy" hours.
• We chose top pet-friendly hotels based on factors including our own experiences, a close examination of the pet programs offered, as well as reviews and rankings on Trip Advisor, Booking.com, and BringFido.com. Hotels are affordable but high end, with low season price points under $315 nightly.

The best journeys are those where a loved one is along for the ride. But when that loved one has four legs and a whole lot of fur, it can be a challenge just finding a place to stay that loves your pet as much as you.

Over my last decade as a professional dog trainer, I've had a variety of experiences with pet-friendly motels, which provide clean rooms at a reasonable price, but are a far cry from the kind of luxurious stays that make vacations special.

Luckily, many properties across the US have begun to not just welcome pets but to offer them perks of their own, with dog-friendly "yappy hours," plush dog beds, and fresh-baked treats, among other amenities.

As hotels begin to reopen following shutdowns due to the novel coronavirus, many travelers are eager to get back out there but want to ensure it is safe to travel. Many pet owners are also hesitant to leave dogs with boarders or have sitters stay in their homes right now, making a pet-friendly getaway or road trip especially appealing.

Before booking, it's important to understand the risks associated with travel, and hotels specifically. Remember, without a vaccine, there is no guarantee of safety and it's crucial to follow guidelines from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and wear a mask, wash your hands, and maintain social distancing. We've also noted new COVID-19 policies for the hotels below, but it may also be wise to read up on hotel brands' cleaning procedures and cancellation policies.

That said, moonlighting as a travel writer over the past few years, I've had the opportunity to get up close and personal with various exceptional pet programs at hotels from California to Maine.

Some of my favorite pet-friendly stays have made this list, while others I've selected from careful research examining pet programs at hotels that are well-reviewed by Trip Advisor, Booking.com, and BringFido.com, an online travel advisor for the furry kind.

These are locations your pet will love exploring, including tranquil mountains and vibrant city streets, and are sure to make both you and your pets feel at home without exceeding your travel budget.