Calgary, Alberta
by John McKiernan
Staff Writer
If you’re planning to travel to Calgary and the Canadian Rockies with a pet, you’ll want to have some ideas of where you can stay with it. When traveling with a pet, it’s best to imagine it as a mini version of you.
Like you, your pet has to swap its comfortable home for rented accommodations. It has to have identification and its own set of toiletries. And your pet, especially if it is a dog, will want to do all the activities that you are doing in and around the Canadian Rockies.
The only difference is your pet never has to pay. The fact is, the Canadian Rockies is not Disney World, it is literally “the great outdoors.” There is no better place to bring a pet than here. Many hotels will accept a pet with a forewarning phone call, but here are some Calgary accommodations that are especially pet friendly.
The Bow River Cottage
This is a quaint little cottage in the city, on beautiful Bow Crescent – one of Calgary’s most stunning streets. Right across the street is the gorgeous river. There are few better places to bring a dog for a walk.
Howard Johnson Express Inn
This is only steps away from world class shopping and restaurants as well as some of the world’s best attractions and the Calgary Stampede Grounds. Only dogs are allowed (with humans, of course), and they must be attended to at all times. There is a $10 per night pet fee.
Super 8 Motel Calgary Shawnessy
This less expensive option is a good choice if you want to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city a bit. Located in the southernmost part of Calgary, and close to many shops including, Petland. There is a minimum $15 per day charge, up to a maximum of $75 per day. Cats and dogs up to 70 lbs are allowed, so elephants must be left at home. Pets must not be left in the room alone.
Causeway Bay Calgary Hotel
Pet rooms available, no extra charge applies. Pets need to be leashed to and from their room. Pets should not be left unattended in the rooms. Guests must agree to and sign the Pet Agreement Form. Rooms offer all the usual amenities: cable TV, fridge, microwave, clock radio, air conditioning, hair dryer. Complimentary morning coffee is a definite plus. Close to everything you might need.
Delta Calgary South
All pets are welcome in either smoking or non-smoking guest rooms, depending on if your dog likes the occasional cigar or not. Cats and dogs less than 50 lbs are allowed (that’s right, no tigers), with a maximum of 2 pets per room. Pets must be leashed at all times in public areas as well as around the exterior of the hotel. A charge of $35 per stay per room will be added to cover the costs of additional cleaning measures that ensure the room is “allergy-free” for next guests. The best part for your pet is that there is a special welcome bag for cats and dogs.
Holiday Inn Calgary Macleod Trail South
Located close to the most convenient public transport in Calgary, this Holiday Inn is a great option for pets. There are designated first and second floor rooms in the hotel just for pets, but make sure to inform the hotel before you book. The charge is $20 extra per night per pet. Your pet must be kept on a leash. Pets are not allowed in any food and beverage outlets, or the pool area of the hotel. This exclusion does not apply to guide dogs.