Short-term rental company Vrbo says it has seen a 40% increase in demand for pet-friendly vacation homes on its platform. With so many Americans showing interest in their pets, Vrbo has launched vacation homes designed for dogs.
Vrbo commissioned five limited-edition doghouses inspired by the platform’s most popular rental types. The doghouses include a luxury chalet with a cozy fireplace for naps; a beach cottage with a rooftop checkerboard; a trendy rustic A-frame; a modern ranch house with a water and food station; and a mid-century bungalow with a dog pool and garden.
“We’ve asked a lot of our homes this year and could all use a much-needed break for the holidays,” says Alison Kwong, a Vrbo spokesperson. “While humans can easily book a Vrbo property for a relaxing escape, our pets also deserve a relaxing place to rest their paws. Families love bringing their pets along on vacation and staying at pet-friendly vacation homes together. … With this limited-time-only set of dreamy doghouses, families can treat their loyal companions to an extra-special dog-sized stay this holiday season.”
Dog-loving parents can book to rent one of the doghouses starting at noon CT on Dec. 9 at vrbo.com/petholiday. Each house costs $100.
More homeowners have become pet owners since the pandemic, and homeowners are showing a willingness to move for their pet. In fact, 43% of pet owners say they’d be willing to move to accommodate their pet, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. What’s more, 68% of pet owners surveyed by realtor.com® say they would pass on the perfect home if it didn’t meet their pet’s needs. Unmarried couples, single women, and millennials have shown to be the most willing to move for their pets, according to NAR’s data.