Finding Your Perfect Pet-Friendly Home Away From Home
Pet-friendly short term housing is accommodation that welcomes pets for stays typically ranging from a few days to several months. If you’re searching for a place that accepts your furry friend, here’s what you need to know:
- Definition: Furnished rentals with flexible lease terms (under 12 months) that explicitly allow pets
- Where to find them: Major vacation-rental platforms, furnished-housing directories, and extended-stay hotel websites
- Average costs: $55-$421 per night depending on location and amenities
- Common pet policies: One-time pet fee ($50-$300), possible breed/size restrictions
- Best booking seasons: July for Phoenix, winter months for Los Angeles
Finding accommodations that welcome both you and your pet can be challenging, especially when you’re relocating for work or need a temporary place to stay. Unlike traditional year-long leases or pet-restricted hotels, pet-friendly short term housing offers the flexibility many travelers need without leaving their four-legged companions behind.
I’m Sean Swain, founder of Detroit Furnished Rentals LLC, with over a decade of experience providing pet-friendly short term housing for corporate travelers and healthcare professionals throughout the Detroit metropolitan area. My background in hospitality and personal experience as both a pet owner and property manager gives me unique insight into what makes a successful pet-friendly rental experience.
Similar topics to pet-friendly short term housing:
What Is Pet-Friendly Short Term Housing?
Imagine coming home after a long day to a wagging tail or a purring friend curled up on your sofa. Now imagine having that comfort even when you’re away from your permanent home. That’s the beauty of pet-friendly short term housing.
These accommodations are temporary homes that welcome your furry family members with open arms, typically offering lease terms under 12 months. Unlike traditional rentals that might greet your pet request with a firm “no” or eye-watering fees, these spaces are designed with both human and animal comfort in mind.
“Three months in a hotel with two cats sounds miserable,” one traveler shared in a Cleveland housing forum, capturing why dedicated pet-friendly short term housing has become essential for so many people on the move.
What makes these accommodations special is their ready-to-live nature. They come fully furnished, offer flexible stay periods (typically 1-6 months), include utilities and internet in the price, and most importantly – have reasonable pet policies that acknowledge your four-legged companion is family, not just an inconvenience to be tolerated.
Need advice on making extended stays with pets more comfortable? Check out the latest guidance from experienced travelers who’ve mastered the art of temporary relocations with animals.
Key Differences from Traditional Rentals
When comparing pet-friendly short term housing to conventional year-long leases, the differences are substantial and meaningful for pet parents.
Traditional apartments often feel like obstacle courses for pet owners – lengthy applications, strict pet restrictions, and the commitment of a full year lease. Short-term pet-friendly options, by contrast, offer freedom and convenience that better suits mobile lifestyles.
The paperwork is simpler, with streamlined applications that won’t keep you waiting for days. You can move in immediately to a fully-furnished space where everything from the WiFi to the water bill is handled in one simple payment. And perhaps most valuably, these spaces often include thoughtful pet amenities like nearby walking trails or designated play areas.
As one Detroit property manager told me, “Our short-term pet-friendly units turn over three times faster than traditional leases, but our pet owner satisfaction rates are nearly double.” That’s the power of designing spaces with both human and animal needs in mind.
How It Differs from Extended Stay Hotels
While extended stay hotels might seem like a natural alternative, pet-friendly short term housing offers distinct advantages that make a real difference in comfort for both you and your pet.
Space is perhaps the most obvious difference. Hotel rooms typically offer just 300-500 square feet of living area, while short-term rentals often provide 800-1,500+ square feet to stretch out. For a dog who loves to play or a cat who needs territory to explore, this extra room isn’t just nice – it’s essential for wellbeing.
The kitchen situation also dramatically differs. Hotels might offer a microwave and mini-fridge, but try preparing balanced pet meals or storing bulk pet food in that setup. Short-term rentals provide full kitchens with standard appliances, making it easier to maintain your pet’s normal diet and routine.
Privacy matters too. Hotels mean shared hallways and constant stranger traffic – stressful for many animals. Private entrances and dedicated outdoor spaces in rental homes create a more secure feeling environment for nervous pets.
According to scientific research on pet stress in new environments, animals experience less anxiety in spaces that resemble home settings with consistent routines. The larger space and home-like atmosphere of pet-friendly short term housing significantly reduces pet anxiety compared to hotel environments.
When your pet feels comfortable, you can relax too – turning a temporary stay into a genuine home away from home.
Popular Pet-Friendly Short Term Housing Options
The market for pet-friendly short term housing has absolutely exploded in recent years. Whether you’re traveling with a tiny terrier or a massive mastiff, there’s now a perfect temporary home waiting for both of you. Let’s explore the most popular options that welcome your four-legged family members:
Apartments & Furnished Lofts
Urban apartments and lofts have become the go-to pet-friendly short term housing option for professionals and city lovers. These spaces offer the perfect blend of convenience and comfort for both you and your pet.
Walking into one of these spaces feels immediately like home – everything from the furniture to the wifi is ready and waiting. You’ll find yourself in prime downtown locations where you can step outside and immediately find pet-friendly cafes, parks, and shops within easy walking distance.
“When I relocated to Detroit for a six-month project, finding a place that welcomed my Golden Retriever was my top priority,” shares Michael, a consultant who stayed in one of our Midtown units. “Having a dedicated dog park in the building and being walking distance to canine-friendly cafes made all the difference.”
What makes these apartments special for pet parents are the thoughtful amenities like on-site pet washing stations, dedicated relief areas, and even treat stations in some building lobbies. The secure entry systems provide peace of mind when walking your dog late at night, and the 24/7 maintenance means any pet-related issues can be addressed quickly.
Many of our Detroit pet-friendly short term housing guests particularly love the community aspect – both human and canine residents tend to form fast friendships at the building’s dog park or during evening walks around the neighborhood.
For more detailed information about options in our city, visit our Pet Friendly Apartments Detroit page.
Vacation Rentals & Whole Homes
When you need more space for you and your furry friends to spread out, vacation rentals and whole homes offer the ultimate in privacy and freedom among pet-friendly short term housing options.
Imagine the joy on your dog’s face when they find a private, fenced backyard where they can run freely without a leash! These properties typically offer multiple bedrooms, full-sized kitchens, and laundry facilities – essentially everything you’d want in a permanent home, just without the long-term commitment.
Emma, who booked a three-month stay in a Detroit suburb while her new home was being renovated, puts it perfectly: “After staying in a vacation rental with my two Labradors, I could never go back to a hotel. Having a fenced yard where they could play freely was worth every penny.”
These homes are particularly ideal for relocating families waiting for permanent housing, remote workers with pets needing a change of scenery, or anyone with multiple or larger animals. In Phoenix alone, there are over 4,697 pet-friendly vacation houses available, with prices ranging from $55 to $421 per night. Pro tip: July tends to be the best month for availability and competitive rates in Phoenix, as seasonal demand dips during the summer heat.
Extended Stay & Corporate Suites
Business travelers and healthcare professionals on assignment often gravitate toward extended stay hotels and corporate suites that offer pet-friendly short term housing with hotel-like conveniences.
The major appeal here is simplicity – everything from housekeeping to utilities is handled for you, leaving more quality time with your pet. Many locations even include perks like complimentary breakfast or evening socials where pet owners can connect.
Many national hotel brands welcome pets at their locations, offering a consistency that traveling pet owners appreciate. Meanwhile, corporate housing providers offer fully furnished, pet-friendly apartments for 30+ night stays in major cities, including Detroit.
What makes these accommodations particularly suitable for working professionals is the inclusion of dedicated workspaces, business centers, and all-inclusive billing that simplifies expense reports. There’s something wonderfully convenient about having your pet curl up at your feet while you work from your temporary home office, then being able to immediately transition to a walk without ever getting in your car.
The absence of broker fees and realtor commissions also makes this option financially attractive for companies relocating employees and their pets for short-term assignments.
How to Locate and Confirm Pet-Friendly Short Term Rentals
Finding a place that truly welcomes your furry friend takes more than just clicking a “pets allowed” checkbox. As a pet parent myself, I know the relief of finding genuine pet-friendly short term housing where both you and your companion feel welcome – not just tolerated.
Using Platforms & Local Resources for pet-friendly short term housing
The digital landscape offers numerous ways to track down the perfect temporary home for you and your pet. Each platform has its own personality when it comes to pet policies:
When searching online, many vacation rental sites offer “Pets Allowed” filters as just the starting point. I always recommend digging deeper into the actual listing descriptions where the real pet policy details hide. Some platforms geared toward business travelers offer similar filtering, but their “Pets Welcome” properties often have more detailed house rules sections specifically about four-legged guests.
For healthcare professionals, there are specialized resources that have become go-to tools, with many traveling nurses reporting success finding accommodations for their pets during 13-week assignments. If you’re staying longer, some services specialize in monthly rentals (30+ nights) with clear pet policies upfront.
“I set up custom alerts on a popular rental app for new pet-friendly listings in Detroit three months before my move,” shares Marcus, a software developer who relocated with his Beagle. “This gave me first pick of fresh listings that welcomed pets without the excessive fees.”
Beyond the major platforms, don’t overlook community resources. Local Facebook housing groups often feature short-term sublets from pet owners who understand the importance of pet-friendly spaces. Neighborhood apps can uncover hidden gems from locals temporarily leaving town who prefer pet owners as tenants to keep their home lived-in.
For Detroit-specific options that have been personally vetted for pet-friendliness, visit our Pet Friendly Rentals Detroit page to see what’s currently available.
Verifying Policies Before You Book
The fine print matters enormously when it comes to pet-friendly short term housing. Before putting down that deposit, have a direct conversation about pet policies.
Start by asking specific questions about breed or weight restrictions – these are the most common limitations that might not be obvious from a listing. Find out exactly how many pets are permitted, as many places cap at two. Some properties require a pet “interview” or meet-and-greet before finalizing your booking, especially for longer stays.
Always get clarity on the financial aspects. Beyond the advertised pet deposit, ask if there’s a non-refundable pet fee or additional monthly “pet rent.” These costs can add up quickly, turning a seemingly affordable rental into a budget-buster.
“I learned the hard way to get everything in writing,” shares Tanya, who travels with her senior cat. “A property manager verbally assured me my cat was welcome, but the actual owner had different ideas when I arrived. Now I insist on seeing the pet policy in the actual lease agreement before booking.”
Pay attention to practical details too – can your pet be left alone in the unit while you’re out? Are there designated relief areas nearby? What documentation will you need to provide (vaccination records are standard, but some places now require pet insurance too).
When reviewing potential properties, look for reviews from previous pet owners. Their experiences offer invaluable insights about how pet-friendly a place truly is. A common red flag is vague answers about pet policies or fees that suddenly appear after initial conversations.
For maximum peace of mind, request a video tour focusing specifically on pet-friendly features like secure outdoor spaces, durable flooring, or nearby walking paths. This extra step can save both you and your pet from an uncomfortable situation.
Costs, Fees & City-by-City Snapshot
When it comes to pet-friendly short term housing, your wallet needs to be as prepared as your pet’s travel bag. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay across different cities and seasons.
Average Pet Fees in pet-friendly short term housing
Bringing Fido or Fluffy along isn’t free, but understanding the typical fee structure helps avoid sticker shock at check-in.
Most properties structure their pet fees in two ways: one-time charges and recurring costs. For one-time fees, you’ll typically encounter a pet deposit ranging from $100-$500, which is your safety net – keep the place in good shape, and most of that money comes back to you. At Detroit Furnished Rentals, our average pet deposit is $250, with about 80% typically returned to responsible pet parents.
Beyond deposits, expect a non-refundable cleaning fee between $50-$150 (those pet hairs don’t vacuum themselves!) and possibly a small administrative fee of $25-$75 for paperwork and pet registration.
The recurring costs are what really add up over time. Monthly pet rent typically runs $25-$75 per furry friend, while extended stay hotels might charge weekly pet fees of $15-$30.
“I budget an extra $300 for my dog whenever I book a month-long stay,” shares Jamie, a traveling consultant and regular guest. “Between deposits and monthly pet rent, it’s just part of traveling with my buddy.”
Multiple pets often mean multiplied fees, and some places charge different rates for dogs versus cats (with dogs typically costing more). Larger breeds may also face higher fees than their smaller counterparts. The silver lining? Service animals are legally exempt from pet fees under Fair Housing laws.
City Comparisons & Best Booking Seasons
Just like human real estate, pet-friendly short term housing follows the “location, location, location” rule. Prices and availability swing dramatically depending on where and when you’re looking.
In Phoenix, the desert heat works in your favor during summer. With nearly 4,700 pet-friendly vacation rentals available and rates ranging from $55-$421 per night, booking in July can save you up to 72% off peak rates. Your pup might appreciate those air-conditioned accommodations and early morning desert hikes before the temperature soars.
Los Angeles commands a premium for pet-friendly digs – expect to pay 15-20% more than pet-free accommodations, with monthly rates ranging from $1,100 to well over $4,000. The silver lining? Winter months (January-February) see prices dip as tourist traffic slows. Neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Echo Park are particularly welcoming to four-legged residents, with plenty of dog washing stations and nearby beaches where pets can play.
Charlotte offers a happy medium with reasonable pricing and an increasing number of pet-friendly apartment complexes. The city shines in late fall and early winter when rates drop, and the weather is perfect for exploring the pet-friendly neighborhoods of NoDa and South End with their abundant walking trails and dog parks.
Here in Detroit, we’re proud of our competitive pricing compared to other major cities. Spring (April-May) offers the best availability as the weather warms up, making it perfect timing to enjoy our riverfront walking paths with your pet. Midtown, Corktown, and Downtown lead the pack for pet-friendly neighborhoods, with many buildings now featuring indoor pet relief areas for those snowy Michigan winters.
“Detroit has seen a 32% increase in pet-friendly rental inventory over the past three years,” notes local real estate analyst Maria Thompson. “This growth reflects both increasing demand from pet owners and property managers recognizing the value of this market segment.”
For more details on what’s available in the Motor City, check out our Short Term Rentals Detroit page, where you’ll find current availability and seasonal pricing specials.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pet-Friendly Short Term Housing
Can any breed or size stay in short term rentals?
When it comes to pet-friendly short term housing, one of the most common questions we hear is about breed and size restrictions. The truth is, policies vary widely from one place to another.
Some accommodations welcome all furry friends with open arms, while others maintain certain limitations. These restrictions typically stem from insurance requirements, local ordinances, or specific building policies.
“We’ve seen a real shift in the industry,” says Sean from Detroit Furnished Rentals. “Many property managers are moving away from blanket breed bans and focusing more on pet behavior and owner responsibility.”
That said, you might still encounter restrictions for breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Dobermans, Akitas, and Chow Chows. Weight limits typically hover between 25-75 pounds, with some places charging a bit extra for larger dogs.
At Detroit Furnished Rentals, we prefer to evaluate pets individually rather than implementing sweeping breed restrictions. We believe a well-behaved Great Dane can be a better tenant than a poorly trained Chihuahua! However, some of our partner buildings do have their own policies we need to respect.
It’s worth noting that service animals and emotional support animals have additional protections under the Fair Housing Act. These animals are generally exempt from breed restrictions and pet fees, though proper documentation may be required.
How do cleaning requirements work at checkout?
Let’s talk about what happens when it’s time to say goodbye to your pet-friendly short term housing. Cleaning expectations are typically a bit more detailed when pets have been part of your stay.
Most properties expect you to handle the basics: removing pet hair from furniture and floors, cleaning any obvious pet stains, disposing of waste from outdoor areas, and taking all pet food and supplies with you. If the property provided pet bedding, you’ll want to wash that too.
“One tip I always share with guests,” says Thomas Reid, a veteran property manager, “is to take dated photos when you move in and again when you leave. This simple step protects both you and the property owner if questions arise about what damage was already there versus what might be pet-related.”
Most pet-friendly short term housing includes a standard cleaning fee in your initial payment, but be aware that excessive messes might result in additional charges against your security deposit. Nobody wants that surprise!
Some properties offer special deep-cleaning services specifically for pet owners, ranging from $75-$200 depending on your unit size and how much cleaning is needed. If you’re concerned about pet hair or odors, this might be worth considering.
What legal rights protect me and my pet during a 30-day lease?
Navigating the legal landscape of pet-friendly short term housing can feel tricky, but understanding your rights brings peace of mind.
For regular pets, your lease agreement is your most important document. Once you’ve signed it, landlords cannot simply change the pet policies mid-lease without your agreement. This protection applies even to shorter-term rentals.
Security deposits (including pet deposits) must be handled according to state laws. In Michigan, for example, these must be returned within 30 days of move-out, accompanied by an itemized list of any deductions.
“The number one mistake I see renters make,” shares tenant rights attorney Jennifer Lopez, “is relying on verbal agreements about their pets. Always get everything in writing as part of your lease. If your landlord says ‘sure, two cats are fine’ but the lease says ‘one pet maximum,’ that conversation won’t help you if issues arise later.”
For service and support animals, you have broader protections under the Fair Housing Act. Landlords cannot charge pet fees for service animals, and they must make reasonable accommodations even in properties that might otherwise prohibit pets.
That stays under 30 days (like vacation rentals) often fall under different regulations than traditional leases. These shorter stays typically operate under transient occupancy laws, which may offer fewer tenant protections.
Preparing Your Pet for Short-Term Housing Success
Successfully transitioning your pet to pet-friendly short term housing requires preparation beyond just finding the right accommodation:
Before You Move:
- Update ID Tags and Microchips: Ensure all contact information is current
- Visit Your Veterinarian: Get health certificates and medication refills
- Pack Familiar Items: Bring your pet’s favorite toys, beds, and blankets
- Research Local Vets: Identify emergency veterinary services near your temporary home
- Create a Pet Resume: Compile vaccination records, references from previous landlords, and pet training certificates
During the Move:
- Secure Your Pet: Use carriers or keep pets leashed during the moving process
- Set Up a Safe Space: Create a quiet area with familiar items immediately upon arrival
- Maintain Routine: Keep feeding and walking schedules as consistent as possible
- Gradual Exploration: Allow your pet to acclimate to one room before exploring the entire space
After Settling In:
- Explore Together: Walk the neighborhood to familiarize your pet with new surroundings
- Meet the Neighbors: Introduce your pet to other building residents
- Find Local Resources: Locate nearby pet stores, dog parks, and walking trails
- Establish New Routines: Create consistent patterns that work in your new space
“The first three days in a new environment are crucial for pets,” explains animal behaviorist Dr. Emma Wilson. “Minimizing changes to their routine while they adjust to new surroundings significantly reduces stress behaviors.”
At Detroit Furnished Rentals, we provide new guests with a welcome package that includes local pet resource information, nearby walking routes, and emergency veterinary contacts to help make the transition smoother for both pets and their owners.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect pet-friendly short term housing shouldn’t feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With the right approach and resources, you can find accommodations that welcome both you and your four-legged family member with open arms.
Here at Detroit Furnished Rentals, we’ve built our business around the understanding that pets aren’t just allowed—they’re valued guests. We’ve thoughtfully designed our properties to create comfortable spaces where both humans and animals can feel at home. Our fully furnished apartments throughout Detroit offer features that pet parents appreciate:
Our spacious floor plans give your pet room to stretch out and play, while our durable, pet-friendly flooring means you won’t stress about the occasional accident or scratched surface. We’ve strategically chosen locations near parks and pet-friendly establishments, making those daily walks more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Unlike some properties that bury pet policies in fine print, we believe in transparency. Our reasonable pet fees come with no hidden surprises, and our 24/7 support team is ready to address any pet-related concerns that might arise during your stay.
“I’ve traveled with my dog to five different cities over the past year,” shares Taylor, a traveling nurse who recently stayed in our Midtown location. “Detroit Furnished Rentals offered the most genuinely pet-friendly experience by far. The welcome treats for Baxter and the detailed guide to nearby dog parks showed me they truly understand what pet owners need.”
Whether you’re in Detroit for a healthcare assignment, corporate project, film production, or while transitioning to permanent housing, we’ve created pet-friendly short term housing solutions that truly feel like home—for everyone in your family, including those with four legs and a tail.
The best pet-friendly short term housing goes beyond simply allowing pets. It accepts them as part of the experience, creating environments where both you and your furry companion can thrive. By choosing accommodations specifically designed with pets in mind, you’re setting yourself up for a comfortable, low-stress temporary living situation.
Ready to find a truly pet-welcoming temporary home in Detroit? For more information about our pet-friendly properties and current availability, visit our properties page.
