10 Dog-Friendly Vacation Destinations

The Resort at Paws Up has always had a special relationship with man’s best friend-inspiring its name and logo along with its pet-friendly policy. Case in point: this resort offers an outdoor kennel for sleeping under the stars. Canine guests also get their own stylish Paws Up collar and leash combo, a bag of delectable doggie treats and a toy to keep them busy. Best of all, this is a wilderness sanctuary you’ll never forget, with plenty of walking trails for you and your dog to explore as the picturesque mountains form an idyllic backdrop.

You know you’re among dog lovers when the director of pet relations at your hotel is a Cocker Spaniel named Bosco. He’s one of many furry friends at the Firesky Resort & Spa. This recommended getaway boasts dog walking and sitting services, an exercise area and nearby dog park, in-room food and water bowls, a super-comfy doggy bed, a pooper scooper and walking map. Ask for the Bone Appetite Package, which includes Bosco’s Brew (a pet-friendly beer), gourmet doggie treats, a top-quality chew toy and a leash.

When visiting the Windy City, bring your pet to this hotel located in downtown Chicago. Take advantage of a special PAWS Chicago Pet Package that provides a doggy bed, bowl and welcome treat. Additionally, the hotel staff can arrange pet walking and sitting services along with day care, grooming and spa services. Ten percent of all proceeds is donated to PAWS (Pets Are Worth Saving) Chicago, a non-profit organization working to help Chicago become a no-kill zone for stray animals. And if you and your dog get lonely, you can even call room service to request “Guppy Love,” a complimentary goldfish (cared for by hotel staff) to keep you company during your stay.

“Chicago is one of the most pet-friendly cities around, with a host of dog parks, dog beaches, and parks that allow pets,” said Tony Kremer, DVM, of Plainfield, Ill., who strongly recommends the Hotel Monaco.

This highly acclaimed hotel serves up a heaping helping of Southern hospitality as well as scenic hiking trails, a designated play area outfitted with a tether, a milk bone at turndown and much more.

“Homestead guests and their pets can explore miles of Allegheny Mountain trails ideal for those morning canine ‘constitutionals’ that are sure to set tails wagging and whiskers wiggling,” says Carol Stratford, director of marketing communications for The Homestead.

Take a bite of the Big Apple while your dog takes a bite out of a delicious doggy snack at this hotel located in the city’s Theater District. The Pampered Pooch Package includes a basket filled with canine treats and access to New York’s only doggie playground, “Canine Court,” with open land and an obstacle course close by. You and your pet can also enjoy the popular dog runs in nearby Central Park. And if you’ve always wanted to explore the swanky stores with Rex at your heel, here’s your chance: Hotel guests and their dogs are welcome to shop together at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany’s, Brooks Brothers, Banana Republic and the Gap.

Yearning for an escape to the Sunshine State? Bring the pet to this 49-room boutique hotel where dogs are indulged with numerous amenities-including a Creature Concierge who arranges all the pet accoutrements, such as charm bracelets, Tiffany dog tags, cashmere pet beds, walking, local play dates, shopping, and priority seating at the pool (where you can partake in poolside “yappy hour”). What’s more, Baleen, Grove Isle’s restaurant, provides gourmet dog treats and outdoor dining spots. If you really want to go posh, splurge for a canine reflexology session in a seaside cabana or a Doggie and Me yoga appointment at SpaTerre, the hotel’s to-die-for spa.