The trade body representing Airbnb and other short let providers and sector suppliers says the short let industry is best placed to accommodate tenants with pets.

It says there has been a glut of dog ownership in particular as a result of the pandemic.

According to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association, a total of 3.2m households in the UK have acquired a pet since early 2020.. That means the country now has 17m pet-owning homes.

Last Christmas when severe travel restrictions were in place, many people remained at home so didn’t have to worry about what to do with their newly acquired pets but, this year, with many desperate to get away to meet up with family and friends, they will have to find out whether they are able to take their dogs and other animals with them or will they have to fork out for pet boarding fees.

Now the Short Term Accommodation Association says Airbnb-style platforms and holiday lets are more commonly advertising properties as pet-friendly. One provider, Sykes Holiday Cottages, says bookings for its pet-friendly properties rose by 40 per cent this summer compared to 2019.

And research from Mintel suggests that 17 per cent of potential holiday rental property guests said the ability to take pets with them is important, rising to nearly a quarter for those who planned to take a domestic holiday in a rental property in 2021.

Merilee Karr, chair of the STAA, says: “The huge increase in pet ownership since the first lockdown started in March 2020 means some owners are facing a real conundrum. Where they usually go and stay in the homes of their family or friends for Christmas, their pets might not be welcome. 

“But, if they rent a property close by for Christmas, they will be able to enjoy the best of both worlds by taking their pets with them. With a week’s boarding at a reputable kennel averaging around £150, they can use the money they will be saving to put towards the perfect holiday home. 

“Short term and holiday rentals are renowned for providing guests with a ‘home from home’ experience and with many now allowing pets it means that families can truly get that experience complete with their pet.”