Setting off to see the continental United States with a dog and cat in tow, we had assumed independently-owned motels would have the most flexible pet policies. Many independents, in contrast, simply turn pets away at the door. Its employees do not fuss about the size or number of your pets. Some motels limit pet size to 25 pounds or less. Other chains varied from place to place.
Chain directories usually list local pet policies.
The American Automobile Association travel guides are helpful, and AAA also has started a series of regional pet-friendly motel guides. We found them generally accurate, though the motel selection was limited. Locally, a visit to the Visitors Center, especially in smaller communities, can yield more complete information. Beware of policies that change swiftly and without warning. And sometimes what you see and hear is misleading.