Pets Can Stay Free When Guests Book at Extended Stay America before December 31

Santa won’t be the only one on-the-go during the month of December.  A recent survey conducted by Extended Stay America, Inc. and Kelton Global reveals that more than 90 million Americans (36 percent) will join Kris Kringle and hit the road this holiday season. As the ultimate traveler and after a long day in the sleigh, Santa needs a place to kick back, and enjoy a silent night and a restful sleep more than anybody. As Santa’s Favorite Hotel, Extended Stay America is St. Nick’s home away from the North Pole, and there is no place he’d rather lodge – especially when Reindeer stay free this holiday season. No, these aren’t reindeer games, and Santa isn’t the only one gifted with a pet-friendly stay. Pets can join the family fun and will stay free at Extended Stay America hotels when guests book through www.esa.com/holiday before Sunday, December 31. That’s great news for pet parents, as nearly one- third (27 percent) of those surveyed view four-legged friends as family members that should be included in all the holiday festivities. What’s more, 40 percent of traveling pet owners feel guilty about leaving their pet behind during this time of year.

“Planning travel for an entire family during the holidays can be stressful, especially for those looking to bring a furry family member along. Thankfully, Extended Stay America hotels welcomes pets all-year round so families don’t need to make the difficult decision of leaving their animal companion behind,” said Terry Atkins, VP Marketing Communications, Extended Stay America. “To make traveling even easier this season, Extended Stay America will waive pet fees for those who book through our website before December 31. We understand guests want to enjoy all the comforts of home while away for the holidays, and that absolutely should include pets.”

Prep Your Pet
Extended Stay America has teamed up with pet expert Andrea Arden to provide some traveling tips to help keep your pooch or feline off the naughty list – and preparation is the key to success. When making any travel plans, the further in advance you begin planning, the better. This includes making an appointment with your pet’s veterinarian prior to the trip to make sure they are in good health and up-to-date on required vaccinations, as well as assessing if your pet needs any travel training before hitting the road. A mannerly, calm pet is the most important component of an enjoyable travel experience, so give yourself plenty of time to create and implement a training plan. Start at home, consider joining a class, and then practice in a variety of environments to optimize your pet’s exposure to different people, places and things.

“Pets can add to your holiday travel fun by offering companionship and opening the door to new experiences and meeting new people,” said Andrea Arden, who has more than twenty years of experience in the industry. “After all, there is no easier conversation starter than a well-mannered animal. In recognition of the special bond between people and pets, Extended Stay America is rolling out the welcome mat for furry family members this season.”

Travel Petiquette
When arriving at your destination, like Extended Stay America, you’ll want to be mindful and respectful of others. Some basic rules to consider during your stay include:

• Make sure your pet is always wearing identification. Don’t forget to pack pet essentials like medication and health documents.
• Walk your pet in areas away from flower beds and other public areas. Ask the hotel manager where he or she would prefer you to walk your dog.
• Always keep your pet on a leash or in its carrier.
• Never leave your pet alone in the room unless you’re sure he or she will not disturb other guests. If you must leave your pet alone, it is best to hang the “Do Not Disturb” sign so that a hotel employee doesn’t enter and possibly startle your pet.
• It is often a good idea to request a ground floor room, which makes it much easier to go for late-night walks.
• Be sure to wipe your pet’s feet when you enter the room after a walk!

In addition to helping pet owners stay connected with their animals, Extended Stay America offers all the comforts of home for guests. That’s important, since nearly half (47 percent) of travelers plan to be away from home for five days or more. Extended Stay America rooms are outfitted with fully equipped kitchens that include full-size refrigerators and cooktops, so guests can still contribute a dish to their family gathering. Additional home-like amenities include on-site laundry to keep guests looking their holiday best, as well as free, in-room Wi-Fi and free Grab & Go breakfast.

For more information or to book at Santa’s Favorite Hotel, Extended Stay America, visit www.esa.com/holiday.

Survey Methodology:
The Extended Stay America survey was conducted between November 8 and November 11, 2017 among 1,017 nationally representative Americans, using an e-mail invitation and an online survey. Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results.

In this particular study, the changes are 95 in 100 that the survey results does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 3.1 percent, from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all personas in the universe represented by the sample. The margin of error for any subgroups will be slightly higher.