Traveling with your pet doesn't mean leaving them behind—but it does mean knowing what rental companies will accept them and what you'll pay. Most major car rental chains now permit pets, though policies vary wildly on breed, size, weight limits, and fees.
Who Allows Pets and Who Doesn't
The big names—Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and Budget—all permit pets to some degree, but their specific rules differ. Hertz allows one pet per vehicle at no extra charge for domestic flights (though airport locations sometimes differ from off-airport branches). Enterprise typically charges $25–$50 per rental for a pet, while Avis caps pets at two animals per vehicle and charges around $25–$35 per pet. Budget permits pets but charges $15–$50 depending on location.
Smaller regional companies and luxury rental services often have stricter policies. Some luxury agencies outright ban animals to protect high-end interiors. Local independent rental shops may be more flexible—worth calling directly if a national chain turns you down.
Standard Pet Restrictions and Limits
Even pet-friendly companies impose boundaries. Most set weight limits between 50–150 pounds, though some exclude brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers) due to heat sensitivity during transport. Many companies restrict the number of pets per vehicle to one or two and require advance notice—usually 24–48 hours before pickup.
Some renters report that while online policies say "pets welcome," actual availability at your chosen location is limited. Always call ahead rather than relying solely on the website.
Fee Breakdown: What You'll Actually Pay
Pet fees typically range from $0–$50 per rental, depending on the company and location. Some chains charge a flat rate; others assess per-pet or per-day fees. A cross-country road trip with a 70-pound retriever could add anywhere from $50–$150 to your total rental cost.
Beyond the base fee, watch for:
- Security deposits: Some companies hold $50–$100 refundable deposits for potential damage from pet accidents or shedding.
- Deep-cleaning surcharges: If your pet has an accident or leaves heavy hair, expect $75–$200 in additional charges.
- Damage assessments: Scratches, odors, or stains beyond normal wear can trigger repair costs that may exceed your deposit.
How to Minimize Costs and Complications
Book as early as possible—early bookings sometimes lock lower pet fees. When reserving, explicitly mention pet type, breed, size, and weight. Don't guess; inaccurate information can result in the rental company denying pickup or charging surprise fees.
Inspect the car thoroughly at pickup and take photos of the interior, documenting its condition. Request seat covers or cargo liners if traveling with an anxious pet—most companies won't supply these, but some rental agencies will allow you to install your own protection.
Keep your pet calm during the rental period. Bring familiar blankets, toys, or a crate to reduce stress and minimize accidents. Plan for bathroom breaks every 2–3 hours, even on short trips. A contained, calm pet reduces the likelihood of claims against your security deposit.
Comparing Your Options
Use Mercoly to compare and find trusted car rental providers in one place—you can filter by pet policy, see location-specific restrictions, and review actual customer experiences with pets. This saves time versus calling dozens of companies individually.
Consider rental company loyalty programs too. Some offer pet-waiver benefits for frequent renters or premium members, effectively reducing or eliminating pet fees after your first few rentals.
Alternative: Specialty Pet-Friendly Rental Companies
If standard chains prove restrictive, niche rental services exist specifically for pet travelers. These companies typically allow larger animals, multiple pets, and sometimes offer pet-specific amenities like ventilation upgrades. Expect to pay 15–25% more for these specialized services, but you'll avoid surprise rejections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I book a pet-friendly rental online, or do I need to call? Booking online works, but calling the specific rental location afterward is critical—online systems don't always sync with real-time pet availability, and staff can confirm actual pet policies at that branch.
Q: What happens if my pet has an accident in the rental car? You'll typically be charged a cleaning fee ($75–$200+) and may lose your security deposit; some companies assess additional damage charges if the accident causes stains or odors that don't clean easily.
Q: Are small dogs cheaper to rent with than large dogs? Most companies charge the same per-pet fee regardless of size, though a few base fees on weight—check individual policies rather than assuming.
Compare pet-friendly rental options today and lock in the best rate for your trip.