Do rental car companies allow pets?

Yes, you can bring your pets in a rental car.

Which is the best car rental company for pets?

Some notable names include Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, and Dollar.

What are the best rental cars to travel with pets?

The most suitable car options are vans, crossovers, and SUVs.

Can I rent a luxury car while traveling with my pets?

Although you can rent a luxury car, it is recommended to opt for other options, as these cars come with stricter rules.

Do I need to pay anything for renting a car with pets?

Rental car companies do not charge anything extra, but you will be liable to pay for the dirt, odor, and damage caused by your pet.

Which Car Rental Companies Allow Pets and Dogs?

Most leading car rental companies in the United States allow pets. These include Hertz, Budget, Enterprise, and Avis. Renters can bring their pet dogs, cats, small birds, and other domesticated animals to the car.

However, you will need to keep them safely inside a crate throughout the journey. Alongside, the car should be clean, odor-free, and damage-free to avoid cleaning fees.

What are the Best Pet-Friendly Car Rental Companies in the USA?

Generally, pets are allowed in the rental cars of almost every major company. Here is the list of the top-rated pet-friendly car rental companies and their policies:

1. Avis

All pets, including dogs, are welcome at Avis.
Keep the pet in a cage during the trip.
Place a seat cover before putting the carrier on it.
While returning, make sure the car is clean and odor-free.
A cleaning fee will be charged for damaged and dirty cars.

2. Hertz

It allows pets inside the rental cars.
For safety and cleanliness, it is mandatory to keep your pet in the kennel.
You can also bring service animals in the rental cars without a carrier.
But before returning the car, remove all dirt, odors, pet dander, etc.

3. Budget

Budget allows all housebroken pets in the rental cars.
It does not charge any fee for bringing pets.
However, the renters will be liable for any damages caused by animals.
Service animals are also allowed to travel with renters with disabilities at no cost.

4. Enterprise

Enterprise is among the top-rated pet-friendly car rental agencies in the country.
You will need to use an appropriate carrier to keep your pet safe.
Make sure the pet is inside the cage to avoid the mess.
Take regular breaks to avoid stress caused by hunger, thirst, etc.

Note: Other leading pet-friendly car companies in Los Angeles and other regions include National, Dollar, ACE, Fox, and Advantage. So, check their policies too before booking.

What Charges to Expect When Traveling with Pets?

Even though car rental companies that allow dogs and other pets do not charge an extra fee for bringing them, you may need to pay for cleaning, damages, and other related issues.

Cleaning Fees: Returning a car clean is mandatory when traveling with pets. If you return it dirty without removing pet hair, odor, sand, etc., you will need to pay a fee of USD 50 to USD 450+.
Odor Removal Fee: A persistent smell, specifically in upholstery, will result in a higher fee for specialized cleaning.
Damage Expenses: Renters will need to pay for physical damage, such as a chewed seatbelt, surface, and scratches on the seat.
‘Out-of-the-Service’ Charges: When the car is getting repaired due to the damage caused by pets, the company will charge a no-service fee from the renters.

Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise are among the best pet-friendly car rental companies. However, you should be familiar with the rules and policies before booking. Additionally, check the applicable charges to better plan your travel budget. Lastly, choose the right rental car to help you keep the pet relaxed.