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A Digital Nomad's Guide toTravel with Pets: Part Two

  • Writer: Ian
    Ian
  • 1 day ago
  • 16 min read
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Welcome back! If you are reading this you are pretty dedicated to finding out about life as a digital nomad with your pet. If you happened to click on this post by accident, you should know there was one preceding it that you should probably read first to get the gist of where we are going today.


So, let's jump in. We've covered the why (or why not) you should travel with your pet, the gear you will need, and some international pet requirements as well as a timeline for preparing your adventures so that you are well prepared before you go. Let's now look at some pet friendly destinations and how to go about securing the accommodations you'll need.


Not all countries welcome pets equally. Some make it incredibly easy with straightforward regulations and pet-friendly culture. Others create nearly impossible barriers with lengthy quarantines and complex requirements. And even in pet-friendly countries, finding accommodation that works for both your pet AND your remote work needs presents a unique challenge.


Jump to What You Need:

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Part 1: Pet-Friendly Destinations for Digital Nomads

Your destination choice can make the difference between a smooth experience and a nightmare of bureaucracy, quarantines, and cultural conflicts.


Top Pet-Friendly Countries (Great for First-Timers)


Portugal

Why it's great:

  • Extremely dog-friendly culture - pets welcome in many cafes, shops, and public spaces

  • Beaches that allow dogs year-round

  • Affordable cost of living (for Western Europe)

  • Good quality veterinary care widely available

  • EU pet passport makes onward travel to other EU countries simple

  • Established digital nomad community


Pet requirements:

  • EU pet passport (can get after arrival) or health certificate

  • Rabies vaccination (21-day waiting period)

  • Microchip (ISO-compliant)

  • Tapeworm treatment for dogs (1-5 days before entry)


Best cities for nomads with pets:

  • Lisbon: Urban, lots of parks, good infrastructure

  • Porto: Charming, less touristy, pet-friendly

  • Lagos: Beach town in Algarve, very dog-friendly


Challenges:

  • Hot summers (can be tough for thick-coated breeds)

  • Some landlords still don't allow pets despite cultural acceptance

  • Tourist areas can be crowded


Digital nomad visa: Yes, available (D7 or Digital Nomad Visa)


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Mexico

Why it's great:

  • Very affordable compared to North America/Europe

  • Warm climate year-round

  • Growing expat and digital nomad community

  • Relatively relaxed pet culture in urban areas

  • Relatively easy entry requirements

  • Short flights from US/Canada


Pet requirements:

  • Health certificate (issued within 5 days of travel)

  • Current rabies vaccination

  • No import permit required for dogs and cats (as of current regulations)


Best cities for nomads with pets:

  • Mexico City: Huge, tons of parks, good vet care, pet-friendly neighborhoods like Roma/Condesa

  • Playa del Carmen: Beach town, relaxed vibe, established nomad scene

  • Puerto Vallarta: Beach city, very pet-friendly, good infrastructure

  • Oaxaca: Cultural hub, pleasant climate, growing nomad community


Challenges:

  • Large stray dog population (disease exposure risk)

  • Quality of vet care varies by location (excellent in cities, limited in rural areas)

  • Hot climate in many regions

  • Some areas have concerns about street dog interactions


Nomad-friendly: Yes, temporary resident visa available for longer stays


Spain

Why it's great:

  • Pet-friendly culture, especially in urban areas

  • Outdoor lifestyle with lots of parks and beaches

  • Good infrastructure and services

  • Excellent veterinary care

  • EU pet passport makes continued travel easy

  • Great climate in most regions


Pet requirements:

  • EU pet passport or health certificate

  • Rabies vaccination

  • Microchip (ISO-compliant)

  • Tapeworm treatment (dogs, 1-5 days before entry)


Best cities for nomads with pets:

  • Barcelona: Urban, beach access, many pet-friendly spaces

  • Valencia: More affordable than Barcelona, great weather, beach city

  • Seville: Cultural, charming, good weather

  • Malaga: Coastal, affordable, growing nomad scene


Challenges:

  • Bureaucracy for official residency

  • Some beaches have seasonal dog bans (summer months)

  • Can be expensive in major cities


Digital nomad visa: Yes, recently introduced


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Germany

Why it's great:

  • Extremely pet-friendly - dogs allowed in most restaurants, shops, public transport

  • Excellent veterinary care

  • Great infrastructure

  • Well-maintained parks and green spaces

  • Very safe for pets


Pet requirements:

  • EU pet passport or health certificate

  • Rabies vaccination

  • Microchip

  • Tapeworm treatment (dogs)


Best cities for nomads with pets:

  • Berlin: Urban, huge parks, very dog-friendly culture

  • Munich: Clean, organized, lots of outdoor spaces

  • Hamburg: Port city, green spaces, pet-welcoming


Challenges:

  • More expensive than Southern Europe

  • Cold winters

  • Bureaucratic entry process

  • Language barrier in some services


Digital nomad visa: Not specific visa, but freelance visa available


Croatia

Why it's great:

  • Beautiful coastal areas

  • Many beaches allow dogs

  • Growing digital nomad scene

  • More affordable than Western Europe

  • EU member (easier onward travel)


Pet requirements:

  • EU requirements (microchip, rabies vaccination, health certificate)

  • Tapeworm treatment for dogs


Best cities for nomads with pets:

  • Dubrovnik: Stunning, touristy but beautiful

  • Split: More local feel, good infrastructure

  • Zagreb: Capital, urban, less touristy


Challenges:

  • Seasonal - tourism industry means summer crowds

  • Some accommodations only available seasonally

  • Limited options in winter months


Digital nomad visa: Currently developing options


Other Notable Pet-Friendly Mentions:

  • Colombia (Medellín): Growing nomad hub, affordable, pet-friendly culture in expat areas. Check specific city regulations as they vary.

  • Estonia: Digital nomad visa available, very pet-friendly culture, excellent infrastructure. Main challenge: cold winters.

  • Costa Rica: Beautiful nature, established expat community, relatively easy pet entry. Challenge: tropical climate and parasites require vigilance.


Moderate Difficulty Destinations

These require more planning but are doable with preparation:


Thailand

Why nomads go: Incredibly affordable, excellent infrastructure for nomads, amazing food, established digital nomad communities in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.


Pet challenges:

  • Import permit required (apply weeks in advance)

  • Health certificate required

  • Less pet-friendly culture overall (especially cats)

  • Hot, humid climate challenging for many breeds

  • Language barrier for vet care

  • Street dog population creates health risks


Best for: Cats and small dogs who can stay indoors more. Established nomads who know what they're doing.


Nomad visas: Various options including education visas, Elite visa


Colombia

Why nomads go: Medellín is a major digital nomad hub, affordable, good weather, friendly culture.


Pet challenges:

  • Pet import requirements vary by city

  • Check specific municipal regulations

  • Vet care quality varies (excellent in cities, limited rurally)

  • Some areas have street dog issues


Best for: Those staying in established expat areas of major cities.



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Destinations to Avoid or Approach with Extreme Caution


United Kingdom

Why it's difficult:

  • Strict entry requirements with extensive documentation

  • Potential quarantine depending on origin country

  • Expensive overall

  • Post-Brexit has made EU-UK pet travel more complex


When it makes sense: If UK is your primary destination for 6+ months and you're willing to invest in the complex entry process.


Australia and New Zealand

Why it's very difficult:

  • Extremely strict import requirements

  • Lengthy, expensive process (6+ months planning minimum)

  • Mandatory quarantine possible (10 days to 4+ months depending on origin)

  • Costs can exceed $5,000-8,000 per pet

  • Extensive documentation and blood tests required


When it makes sense: If you're moving there long-term (1+ years) and can absorb the cost and planning time. Not practical for typical nomad travel.


Japan

Why it's difficult:

  • Complicated import process

  • Very limited pet-friendly housing (especially rentals)

  • Cultural differences around pets in public spaces

  • Expensive

  • Quarantine possible if paperwork isn't perfect


When it makes sense: Long-term residents who can navigate the system with local help and accept very limited housing options.


Singapore

Why it's difficult:

  • Possible quarantine period

  • Extremely limited pet-friendly accommodations

  • Very expensive city overall

  • Strict regulations


When it makes sense: Business assignments where company covers costs. Not practical for independent nomads.


Many Middle Eastern Countries

Why it's challenging:

  • Limited cultural acceptance of pets (especially dogs)

  • Extreme heat dangerous for many breeds

  • Different cultural views on pet ownership

  • Limited pet-friendly accommodations


When it makes sense: Specific work assignments in expat compounds with pet amenities. Generally not recommended for nomadic lifestyle.



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Parts of Asia

Countries like China, Vietnam (outside major cities), rural parts of Southeast Asia:

Challenges:

  • Street dog populations (disease risk)

  • Different cultural views on pet ownership

  • Vet care concerns outside major cities

  • Language barriers

  • Limited pet-friendly infrastructure



What Makes a Destination Pet-Friendly?

When evaluating potential destinations, consider these factors:

Entry Requirements Complexity:

  • Simple health certificate and vaccinations = Easier

  • Import permits, titer tests, waiting periods = Moderate

  • Quarantine requirements = Difficult/Avoid


Cultural Acceptance:

  • Are pets welcomed in public spaces, cafes, shops?

  • What's the attitude toward pets in residential areas?

  • Is there established infrastructure (pet stores, groomers, etc.)?


Veterinary Care:

  • Quality and availability of veterinary services

  • Availability of English-speaking vets

  • Cost of vet care

  • Access to emergency services


Climate Appropriateness:

  • Is the climate safe for your pet's breed?

  • Can your pet handle the heat/humidity/cold?

  • What parasites are present?


Cost Factors:

  • Vet care costs

  • Pet deposits and fees for accommodations

  • Cost of pet supplies and food

  • Overall affordability


Digital Nomad Community:

  • Is there an established network of pet-owning nomads?

  • Support systems for pet owners?

  • Facebook groups and resources?



Choosing Your First International Destination for Your Travel with Pets

For your first trip with a pet, prioritize:

1. Beginner-Friendly Entry Requirements Choose countries with straightforward regulations (health certificate, rabies vaccination, microchip). Avoid those requiring import permits, titer tests, or quarantine.

2. English Widely Spoken Critical for vet emergencies. Portugal, parts of Mexico, and touristy areas of Spain have good English availability.

3. Established Expat/Nomad Community Other pet-owning nomads provide invaluable support, recommendations, and emergency backup.

4. Good Veterinary Infrastructure You need reliable access to vet care. Major cities in developed countries are safest bets.

5. Moderate Climate Extreme heat or cold adds complications. Temperate climates are easier for first-time pet travel.

6. Cultural Pet Acceptance Go where pets are genuinely welcomed, not just tolerated.

Best starter destinations: Portugal (Lisbon or Porto), Mexico (Mexico City, Playa del Carmen), Spain (Valencia or Málaga)

These offer the right combination of ease, support, and infrastructure for first-timers.



Regional Considerations

North America:

  • Easy if you're US/Canadian (domestic travel or between countries)

  • Good infrastructure

  • Higher costs

  • Excellent vet care

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Europe:

  • Once you're in EU with pet passport, moving between countries is simple

  • Generally excellent vet care

  • Higher costs overall

  • Very pet-friendly culture in most countries

  • Good for longer-term slow travel


Latin America:

  • Generally easier entry requirements

  • More affordable

  • Variable vet care quality (excellent in cities)

  • Warmer climates (consider your pet's breed)

  • Good for budget-conscious nomads


Southeast Asia:

  • Most affordable regions

  • More complex culturally around pets

  • Variable vet care

  • Climate challenges (heat, humidity, parasites)

  • Better for experienced pet travelers




Part 2: Finding the Right Accommodation

Now that you know where you're going, you need to find a place to stay. This is where things get tricky: you need accommodation that's both pet-friendly AND work-friendly. Most pet-friendly listings are vacation rentals that don't consider remote work needs.


The Dual Challenge: Pet-Friendly + Work-Friendly

What "Pet-Friendly" Usually Means:

  • Higher deposits (often an extra month's rent)

  • Size restrictions (usually under 25-50 lbs)

  • Breed restrictions (often ban "aggressive" breeds)

  • Additional cleaning fees ($50-200+)

  • Limited availability

  • Extra rules and scrutiny


What You Also Need for Work:

  • Reliable, fast WiFi for video calls

  • Quiet workspace during business hours

  • Proper desk and ergonomic chair

  • Good lighting for video calls

  • Professional background for calls

  • Adequate space to separate work and living


Finding both in one place requires strategy and patience.



What to Look For in Listings

Pet Requirements in Listings:

Must-haves:

  • "Pet-friendly" filter checked (obvious but start here)

  • Photos showing outdoor space, balcony, or nearby green areas

  • Ground floor or elevator access (makes bathroom breaks much easier)

  • Tile or hardwood floors (carpet traps odors and pet hair, harder to clean)


Strong positives:

  • Fenced yard or secure patio (huge bonus for dogs)

  • Pet amenities visible in photos (bowls, bed) = genuinely welcoming host

  • Reviews specifically mentioning pets positively

  • Host describes themselves as "pet owner" or "animal lover"


Work Requirements in Listings:

Must-haves:

  • Dedicated desk and chair visible in photos

  • "Laptop-friendly workspace" amenity checked

  • Reviews mentioning WiFi quality and reliability

  • Quiet location mentioned


Strong positives:

  • Good natural lighting in workspace area

  • Neutral wall behind desk (good for video backgrounds)

  • Separate room that can be closed for calls

  • Reviews from other remote workers


Combined Needs:

  • Ground floor with outdoor access (pet bathroom) + quiet (for work)

  • Space large enough for both work setup and pet movement

  • Layout that allows pet to be nearby but not in frame during calls


Red Flags to Avoid

Pet-Related Red Flags:

  • "Pet friendly with approval" (often means many restrictions and slow approval process)

  • "Small pets only" when you have medium/large dog

  • Carpet throughout entire space

  • No outdoor space at all (especially problematic for dogs)

  • Upper floor walk-up with large or senior dog

  • Reviews mentioning pet deposits not returned


Work-Related Red Flags:

  • Reviews mentioning thin walls or noise issues

  • Location above bars, restaurants, near construction

  • No desk visible in any photos

  • Reviews complaining about WiFi

  • "Workspace" is just a kitchen table


General Red Flags:

  • Very few or very old reviews

  • Host slow to respond to messages

  • Recent reviews mentioning cleanliness issues

  • Vague or defensive responses to questions


Questions to Ask Hosts Before Booking

Don't book without clear answers. Copy and adapt these questions:

Pet-Specific Questions:

  1. "What exactly is your pet policy?"

    • Size limits?

    • Weight limits?

    • Number of pets allowed?

    • Breed restrictions?

    • Any areas off-limits to pets?

  2. "What are the pet fees or deposits, and are they refundable?"

    • Upfront pet fee?

    • Security deposit amount?

    • Conditions for refund?

    • Cleaning fee?

  3. "Are there nearby parks, trails, or pet relief areas?"

    • How far to nearest park?

    • Are dogs allowed off-leash anywhere nearby?

    • Safe walking routes in the neighborhood?

  4. "Are there noise restrictions I should know about?"

    • Quiet hours?

    • Have previous pets caused issues?

    • How tolerant are neighbors?

  5. "Has the space previously hosted pets?"

    • Signals experience with pet guests

    • Indicates realistic expectations

  6. "Can you recommend a nearby vet?"

    • Shows they've thought about pet needs

    • Gives you immediate resource

  7. "Any rules about leaving my pet alone during work hours?"

    • Some buildings have restrictions

    • Better to know upfront



Work-Specific Questions:

  1. "What's the actual WiFi download/upload speed?"

    • Ask for recent speed test screenshot

    • Need minimum 25 Mbps download, 5 Mbps upload for video calls

  2. "How thick are the walls? Can neighbors hear video calls?"

    • Critical for knowing if you can take calls without disturbing others

  3. "What's the typical noise level during business hours (9am-5pm)?"

    • Street noise?

    • Neighbor noise?

    • Building construction?

  4. "Is there a backup internet option if primary WiFi fails?"

    • Some places have cellular backup

    • Good to know options


Combined Concerns:

  1. "Are there other pets in the building?"

    • Could trigger barking

    • May affect noise levels

  2. "What type of flooring throughout the space?"

    • Matters for both pet cleanliness and damage concerns

  3. "Can I rearrange furniture to optimize my workspace?"

    • Important for setting up proper work area

  4. "Is early check-in available?"

    • Helps reduce pet travel stress

    • Allows time to settle before first work day



Communication Template for Hosts

Be professional and upfront. This template works well:

"Hi [Host name],

I'm a digital nomad working remotely full-time and interested in your property for [dates]. I have a [age] [breed] [dog/cat] named [name] who weighs [X lbs/kg], is house-trained/litter-trained, and well-behaved. I work from home so I'll be present during the day.

A few questions before I book:

  1. What's your pet policy and any associated fees or deposits?

  2. What's the WiFi download/upload speed? (A screenshot of a speed test would be helpful)

  3. Are there nearby parks or walking areas within 5-10 minutes?

  4. Is the workspace quiet during typical business hours for video calls?

  5. [Add any specific questions about your situation]

I'm happy to provide references from previous hosts and my vet if helpful. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best, [Your name]"


Why this works:

  • Shows you're professional and serious

  • Demonstrates you're a responsible pet owner

  • Asks critical questions upfront

  • Offers references (builds trust)

  • Courteous tone


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Airbnb/Vrbo Strategies

Finding Listings:

  1. Use filters properly:

    • "Pet friendly" filter always

    • "WiFi" and "Workspace" filters

    • "Long-term stay" (often better rates and more stable hosts)

  2. Search descriptions:

    • Search "dog friendly" or "pet welcome" in search bar

    • Look for hosts who mention their own pets

    • Check for mentions of desk, office, work

  3. Message before booking:

    • Always confirm current pet policy

    • Policies can change; listing may be outdated

    • Gives you chance to ask questions

  4. Read reviews carefully:

    • Specifically look for reviews mentioning pets

    • Look for reviews from remote workers

    • Recent reviews matter most (policies change)


Reading Between the Lines:

Good signs:

  • "Great for families" often means tolerant of some chaos/noise (good for pets)

  • "Flexible and accommodating host" suggests they'll work with you

  • Multiple reviews mentioning pets

  • Host responds quickly and thoroughly to questions

  • Long-term guests in reviews (signals stable, professional hosting)


Warning signs:

  • "Quiet neighborhood" might mean noise complaints likely

  • No reviews mentioning pets despite "pet-friendly" tag (policy may have changed)

  • Host responses are brief or defensive

  • Inconsistent information between listing and messages


Booking Strategy:

  • Book further in advance: 4-6 weeks minimum (vs. 1-2 weeks for solo travelers)

  • Longer stays get better treatment: Hosts prefer stable, long-term guests

  • Offer higher deposit if needed: Shows you're responsible and serious

  • Provide references proactively: From previous hosts, vet records, photos of your pet



Long-Term Rentals (3+ Months)

For extended stays, consider moving beyond Airbnb to local rental markets.

Advantages:

  • Often significantly cheaper: Airbnb takes 14-20% commission; local rentals don't

  • More stable: Longer lease terms provide stability for your pet

  • Landlords more flexible with long-term tenants: Willing to negotiate

  • More space for the money: Local market rates vs. tourist pricing

  • Utilities often included: Simplifies monthly budgeting


Challenges:

  • More upfront work: Research, viewings, paperwork

  • Language barriers: In non-English speaking countries

  • May need local documentation: Bank account, references, tax ID

  • Less flexibility to leave: Usually minimum 3-6 month commitments

  • Security deposits can be large: 1-2 months rent typical

  • Less protection: No Airbnb guarantee or mediation


Where to Find Local Rentals:

  1. Facebook expat/nomad groups: "[City name] expats" or "Digital Nomads in [City]"

  2. Local rental websites: (varies by country - ask in expat groups)

  3. Real estate agents: May charge fees but handle everything

  4. Word of mouth: Through local nomad networks

  5. Walking neighborhoods: In some countries, "For Rent" signs are common


Tips for Success:

  • Start looking 1-2 months before you need it

  • Visit in person when possible (or arrange video tour)

  • Understand local rental laws and norms

  • Have local friend or fixer help with translations

  • Read contract carefully (get it translated if needed)

  • Document condition thoroughly on move-in

  • Understand deposit return policies and timelines


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Hotel/Coliving Alternatives

Pet-Friendly Hotels:

When they make sense:

  • Transition periods between accommodations

  • First few nights in new city while apartment hunting

  • Emergency backup if Airbnb falls through

  • Short trips (under 1 week)


Best options:

  • Extended-stay hotel chains (Residence Inn, Homewood Suites, Staybridge Suites)

  • Pet-friendly chains (Kimpton, Westin, Fairmont, La Quinta)

  • Boutique hotels in pet-friendly destinations


Reality check:

  • Expensive for long-term ($100-300+ per night)

  • Limited workspace in many rooms

  • Less space for pets to move around

  • Good to have as emergency backup option


Booking strategy:

  • Book refundable rates when possible

  • Join loyalty programs (perks can offset pet fees)

  • Call directly to confirm current pet policy

  • Ask about pet amenities (some have pet beds, bowls, treats)


Coliving Spaces:

Reality check:

  • Very few allow pets at all

  • Those that do usually have strict size/breed limits (under 15-20 lbs)

  • Shared spaces challenging with pets

  • Other residents may not want pets around

  • Generally not recommended unless space is specifically pet-focused


Rare exceptions:

  • Some coliving spaces are specifically pet-friendly

  • Usually marketed specifically to pet owners

  • Often have outdoor space and pet amenities

  • Worth searching for in your destination city



House-Sitting: The Overlooked Option

How It Works:

  • You stay in someone's home for free

  • In exchange, you care for their pet(s) and home

  • Homeowners get trusted care for their pets

  • You get free accommodation


Advantages:

  • Free accommodation (massive savings)

  • Inherently pet-friendly (that's the whole point)

  • Your pet has companions (the homeowner's pets)

  • Usually residential neighborhoods (better for pets than tourist areas)

  • Home amenities (washer, kitchen, more space)

  • Builds experience and references


Platforms:

  • TrustedHousesitters (most popular, ~$129/year membership)

  • MindMyHouse

  • HouseCarers

  • Nomador (popular in Europe)


Reality Check:

Getting started is hard:

  • Need references to get first sit

  • Competition is high for desirable locations

  • Must commit to being available (can't just leave for weekend)

  • Responsibility for someone else's pet(s) and home


But once established:

  • Can dramatically reduce accommodation costs

  • Access to amazing homes in great locations

  • Built-in pet companionship for your pet

  • Authentic local experience


Tips:

  • Start with local sits in your home area to build references

  • Create detailed, professional profile

  • Apply early and often

  • Be flexible on dates initially

  • Video call with homeowners before committing

  • Get detailed instructions on pet care, home, neighborhood


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First Day Setup in New Accommodation

When you arrive, follow this sequence:

Immediate (First 30 Minutes):

  1. Pet safety check:

    • Tour entire space looking for hazards

    • Toxic plants

    • Small items they could swallow

    • Escape routes (gaps in fencing, open windows)

    • Electrical cords

  2. Establish pet zones:

    • Set up food/water station in consistent spot

    • Place pet bed in quiet area

    • Show them where they'll sleep

  3. Bathroom routine:

    • Take dogs outside immediately to designated relief area

    • Set up cat litter box in quiet, accessible location

    • Show them the routine right away


First Hour:

  1. Test internet immediately:

    • Run speed tests (speedtest.net)

    • Test video call if possible

    • Identify any issues while you can still cancel/relocate

  2. Locate emergency resources:

    • Find nearest vet on map

    • Save 24-hour emergency vet contact

    • Identify nearest pet store

  3. Document everything:

    • Photo/video entire space before your pet explores

    • Note any existing damage, stains, wear

    • Send to host if significant issues


First Day:

  1. Set up your workspace:

    • While pet explores and settles

    • Test lighting and background for video calls

    • Organize your work materials

  2. Scout the neighborhood:

    • Find walking routes

    • Locate nearest park

    • Identify pet-friendly cafes or spaces

    • Find nearest grocery store


First Work Day:

  1. Test your routine:

    • Full morning routine with pet

    • Work full day to see how pet handles it

    • Identify any issues early while you can adapt



Managing Deposits and Avoiding Issues

Protect Yourself:

On Move-In:

  • Photograph/video everything before pet enters

  • Note any existing damage, stains, or wear

  • Time-stamp photos if possible

  • Send condition report to host via platform messaging (creates record)


During Stay:

  • Keep pets off furniture when possible

  • Use blankets/covers on furniture if pets are allowed there

  • Clean up immediately after any accident

  • Keep space clean overall (reduces scrutiny)

  • Address any issues immediately


If Damage Occurs:

  • Report to host immediately (honesty protects you)

  • Offer to pay for professional cleaning or repair

  • Document the damage and your response

  • Most hosts appreciate honesty over cover-ups


On Move-Out:

  • Clean thoroughly (vacuum, mop, wipe surfaces)

  • Remove all pet hair possible

  • Take photos of clean space

  • Leave place cleaner than you found it

  • Ask host to confirm condition before you leave if possible


Getting Deposit Back:

  • Most pet deposits ARE returned if there's no damage

  • Document everything protects you

  • Honesty builds trust and protects reviews

  • Keep all communication on platform (creates record)

  • Know host has 14-30 days typically to return deposit


Dispute Resolution:

  • If host claims damage you didn't cause, your move-in photos are evidence

  • Platform will mediate disputes

  • Be professional and factual

  • Most disputes resolve in favor of documented evidence


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Special Considerations by Pet Type

Large Dogs (50+ lbs):

  • Significantly limits options

  • Ground floor essential

  • Need more outdoor space

  • Higher deposits typical

  • Be prepared to look longer


Small Dogs (Under 25 lbs):

  • Many more options

  • Can often stay in apartments

  • Lower deposits

  • Easier to travel with


Cats:

  • Generally easier than dogs (no outdoor bathroom needs)

  • Landlords often prefer cats to dogs

  • Litter box management important

  • Keep near windows for entertainment


Multiple Pets:

  • Dramatically limits options

  • Be upfront about number

  • Expect higher deposits

  • May need to compromise on location or quality


Breed Restrictions:

  • "Aggressive" breeds (Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, etc.) face most restrictions

  • Some landlords ban specific breeds

  • Be honest about breed (they'll find out)

  • Focus on destinations with fewer restrictions



Cost Expectations

Typical Pet-Related Accommodation Costs:

  • Pet fee: $25-100 per stay (non-refundable)

  • Pet deposit: $200-500 (usually refundable)

  • Extra monthly rent: $25-75 per month

  • Cleaning fee: $50-150 (sometimes charged, sometimes waived)

  • Total impact: Expect 15-30% higher accommodation costs


Example:

  • Base rent: $1,500/month

  • Pet fee: $50 (one-time)

  • Pet deposit: $300 (refundable)

  • Extra monthly: $50

  • Your cost: $1,550/month + $350 upfront

Budget accordingly and don't be surprised when pet-friendly costs significantly more.


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Conclusion: Making Smart Destination and Accommodation Choices

Choosing the right destination and accommodation can make or break your experience as a digital nomad with a pet.


For destinations: Start easy. Choose pet-friendly countries with straightforward entry requirements, good vet care, and established nomad communities. You can always tackle more challenging destinations once you've learned the ropes.


For accommodations: Be patient, ask questions, document everything, and don't compromise on either pet needs or work needs. The perfect place exists, but it takes more time to find than solo travelers need.


Most importantly: Plan ahead. Both destination research and accommodation hunting take 2-3x longer with a pet. Build that buffer time into your plans.

The good news? Once you've done it successfully once, it gets easier. You learn what questions to ask, what red flags to watch for, and how to advocate for both your pet's needs and your work requirements.



And so ends chapter two in this series. Up next?


  • Managing Your Work Day

  • Health & Safety

  • Real Challenges

  • Quick Tips



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