When annual lists rank the nation's top pet-friendly cities, Las Vegas is always conspicuous in its absence. Three Harrah's Entertainment properties are doing their part to change that. Caesars Palace, Imperial Palace and the Rio All-Suite hotel-casino recently unveiled PetStay LasVegas, a program that provides hotel rooms equipped with dog-friendly amenities.
Since major resorts have generally eschewed on-site pet programs, for years many visitors have opted instead for condo or vacation house rentals to accommodate their furry companions. But targeting leisure travelers makes economic sense.
According to a poll by the U.S. Travel Association, more than 49% of leisure travelers consider their pet to be part of the family, and 18% of them usually take their pets with them on vacation. Earlier this year, Whiskey Pete's hotel-casino at Primm Valley on the Nevada-California state line unveiled its pets-lodging program covering both dogs and cats.
Each resort has designated PetStay areas featuring welcome packets that include guides to walking routes, outdoor relief areas and special room service menus.
In-room accommodations include a mat; food and water dishes; disposable waste bags; and dog treats. Guests can also purchase dog-grooming, -walking and veterinary services. There are nearly two dozen dog parks in the city, most within 15 minutes of the Strip. Pet-friendly rooms cost an additional $25 per night in the Augustus Tower at Caesars Palace and an extra $20 per night for the Imperial Palace and Rio. Dogs staying at any of the three hotels cannot exceed 50 pounds and must be present at the time of check-in.
Dogs are permitted to walk through designated common areas while on a leash and accompanied by the owner. Those left unattended in a guest room must be crated at all times; crates are available for rental.
Smaller, chain hotels that welcome dogs include:
- Days Inn: 707 Fremont St.; (702) 798-0728; $20 refundable deposit; pet cannot be left unattended.
- Emerald Suites, Las Vegas Boulevard South: 9145 S. Las Vegas Blvd.; (702) 948-9999; pets up to 20 pounds accepted, $25 fee per night or $50 max on a weekly stay.
- Hawthorn Inn & Suites: 910 S. Boulder Highway; (702) 568-7800; $15 fee for pets 25 pounds and under; $25 fee for pets over 25 pounds.
- Hawthorn Suites: 5051 Duke Ellington Way; (702) 739-7000; $100 refundable deposit.
- La Quinta Inn: 4288 N. Nellis Blvd.; (702) 632-0229; no pet fee.