Fusion Medical Staffing provided this article.
One of the most frequently asked questions about travel nursing is, “Can I travel nurse with pets?” The answer: definitely!
However, bringing your furry friend along on an assignment can present additional obstacles, such as finding pet-inclusive housing. Luckily, finding pet-friendly housing can be a breeze whether you go with agency-provided housing or a housing stipend. These are the most popular lodging options for travel nurses and their pets.
Pet-Friendly Housing Options for Travel Nurses
Extended-stay hotel
According to the American Kennel Club, about 75% of luxury, mid-scale, and economy hotels in the U.S. allow animals, making them one of the most common accommodations for travel nurses and their pets. No matter where you’re traveling to, you’re sure to find countless pet-friendly hotel choices near your travel nursing job.
One of the best parts of pet-friendly hotels is that they can take into consideration the unique needs of pet owners by often offering amenities like dedicated pet areas, pet treats, and toys. This type of lodging may also introduce you to a community of fellow responsible pet owners, promoting social interaction for both you and your four-legged family member.
Even better, you may be able to take advantage of discounted hotel rates for travel nurses. By living in an animal-friendly hotel environment, you can focus on your patients, knowing your companion animal is enjoying a safe and comfortable stay.
Airbnb rental
With thousands of properties spread across the country, choosing a pet-friendly Airbnb can make all the difference when travel nursing with a pet. From single rooms to entire houses, you and your pet can customize your Airbnb stay to find the temporary space that’s best for each of you.
Finding a pet-friendly Airbnb is easy — simply type where you want to go in the search bar and include the number of animals that are coming with you. That way, you can clearly see the results of property owners who allow companion animals, as well as the type and if any additional fees or pet deposits are required.
Airbnb’s pet-friendly options have become popular among travel nurses because they provide a home-like environment for you and your pet. That means that your furry friend can feel at ease and comforted while maintaining their normal routine, and so can you.
Short-term apartment lease
Prefer to furnish and decorate your own space? Interested in easy access to dog parks, walking trails, and vet clinics? An apartment in a pet-friendly city may be the right move for you.
Short-term apartment leases are a boon for travel nurses, especially those traveling with a pet. Many times, these residences feature amenities designed with pets in mind, like nearby parks and pet-sitting and grooming services. Additionally, most apartments offer flexible lease terms, including maintenance and utilities, perfect for travel nurses like you.
Mobile living
If packing your belongings (and your pet’s) every 13 or so weeks isn’t your thing, you might consider mobile living. From RV travel to campers to vans, you have options.
This travel nurse housing alternative provides a consistent living space for you and your pet, reducing the stress often associated with frequently changing environments. It also gives you greater flexibility by eliminating the need to follow pet restrictions and policies of different rental housing properties or hotels.
The best part is mobile living gives you the opportunity to explore and enjoy different locations with your furry friend by your side. Whether you opt for RV, camper, or van life, you can relish the perfect blend of comfort, companionship, and adventure.
Pet housing documentation
Whether you travel by plane, car, or train when travel nursing with your four-legged friend, it’s essential to have the right documentation to ensure a smooth journey and move into your temporary home.
Prior to your departure, you should secure a recent health certificate from your vet, confirming your pet’s good health, up-to-date vaccinations, and spay or neuter certifications, as many property managers and landlords will want to see these items.
You’ll also want to ensure your pet is licensed at your tax home and print the information along with your phone number on your pet’s tags. Being prepared with these documents will not only protect your pet but also avoid potential complications.
Having a pet companion with you on your travel nursing escapades can offer emotional support, reduce stress, and invoke a sense of home wherever you go. Don’t let temporary lodging stand in the way of travel nursing with your pet. Through these pet- and dog-friendly housing choices, you can fulfill your needs as well as your best furry friend’s.
We hope you found this article on pet-friendly housing options helpful. Have you found any other pet-friendly housing options that we didn’t mention? Comment them below.
If you would like to read more articles on travel healthcare with pets, click here.
Our job board is a great place to search for your next travel nurse assignment. We have you covered with our housing page if housing is an issue. You can search for what you are looking for.
