Yes, most major car rental companies allowed pets in rental cars, but their policies can vary. While service animals are almost always allowed without a carrier or additional fee, policies for non-service pets differ.
It’s crucial to check with the specific company before you book, as some may have requirements regarding pet carriers, and most will charge a cleaning fee if the car is returned with excessive pet hair, odors, or damage.
This article provides a quick and clear summary of pet policies from top car rental companies to help you plan your trip with your furry companion.
What Is the Pet Policy for Rental Cars?
Pet policies for rental cars vary depending on the company and location, but most major rental car agencies allow pets, provided the vehicle is returned in its original condition.
Being proactive and prepared can help you avoid unexpected charges and ensure a smooth rental experience.
Here’s a clear breakdown of what you need to know about rental car pet policies:
Common Pet Policies and Fees
- Pets are generally allowed: Leading rental companies like Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and SIXT usually permit pets in their vehicles.
- Cleanliness is the main concern: The most common reason for a cleaning fee is pet hair, odors, or any damage caused by the animal. Fees can range from $50 to over $450, depending on the severity of the issue.
- Carrier requirements: Some companies, such as Alamo and National, require pets to remain in a carrier or crate at all times to avoid cleaning fees. Other companies, like SIXT and Hertz, recommend a carrier but do not strictly require it, especially for well-behaved, house-trained pets.
- Service animals are an exception: Policies for service animals differ. They are always allowed in rental cars and are not subject to carrier rules or cleaning fees like other pets.
Top Car Rental Companies That Allow Pets
Avis
Avis allows pets in most of its rental cars, but there are a few important rules to follow. Always call your pickup location in advance to confirm that pets are permitted with your booking. Make sure to keep the car clean and free from pet hair, stains, or strong odors.
If the vehicle is returned dirty, Avis may charge a cleaning fee that can be as high as $450. Following these steps ensures a smooth rental experience for you and your furry companion.
Hertz
Hertz makes traveling with pets easy and stress-free. You can bring your furry companion along at no extra cost, and there’s no need to add them to your booking.
The main rule is simple: return the car clean and free of damage. If any pet hair, odors, or mess are left behind, a cleaning fee may be charged.
For safety, always use your own crate, carrier, or harness when traveling with your pet. With these simple steps, Hertz ensures a smooth and comfortable journey for both you and your four-legged friend.
National
National Car Rental allows you to travel with pets, following a few simple rules to ensure a smooth ride.
Pets must remain in a crate while driving, and the car should be returned clean, free of pet hair, odors, or damage—otherwise, a cleaning fee may apply.
Service animals are always welcome and don’t require a carrier, making your journey comfortable and stress-free.
Enterprise
Enterprise welcomes pets in their rental cars across the U.S., making it easier for pet owners to travel. Pets in rental cars are allowed, but there are a few important rules to follow.
Keep your pet in a crate while traveling, and ensure the car is returned clean, without fur, dander, or mess. If the vehicle isn’t clean, a cleaning fee may apply.
Service animals are always allowed and don’t require a carrier, so you can travel worry-free with your furry companion.
Dollar
Yes, your pets can travel with you in Dollar Cars, as most pet-friendly rental cars allow domestic animals. However, it’s important to follow the company’s rules and return the vehicle clean.
If there’s excessive pet hair, stains, or damage, you may incur an additional cleaning fee. By keeping the car tidy and following these guidelines, you and your furry friend can enjoy a smooth, hassle-free rental experience.
Sixt:
Sixt allows renters to bring pets along, making travel easier for furry companions. Pets are welcome in rental cars, but the vehicle must be returned clean and free of hair or odors, or a cleaning fee may apply.
Service animals are always allowed at no extra charge. Renters can choose from roomy SUVs or vans, ensuring a comfortable trip for both you and your pet.
Alamo:
You can bring pets along for the ride in Alamo Cars, as most locations welcome furry companions.
To ensure a smooth trip, keep your pet in a crate while traveling and return the car clean, free of fur or odors—otherwise, a cleaning fee may apply.
Service animals, however, are always welcome without any carrier requirement, making it easy for everyone to travel comfortably.
Europcar
Europcar allows pets in their rental cars, making it easy for you to enjoy road trips with your furry companion.
To ensure a safe journey, always secure your pet in a harness or carrier so they don’t distract the driver.
Remember to take regular breaks for your pet’s comfort, and return the car clean, free of fur and odors, to avoid additional cleaning fees. This makes renting a car with your pet simple, safe, and stress-free.
Thrifty
Thrifty allows you to travel with your pets, but there are a few simple rules to follow. Make sure to return the car clean, free of pet hair, dirt, or odors.
If the vehicle is returned messy or damaged, extra cleaning fees may apply, typically ranging from $50 to $250.
By keeping the car tidy, you can avoid additional charges and ensure a smooth rental experience for yourself and future customers.
Budget:
The Budget car rental company allows you to bring pets along, but there are a few important rules to follow. Your pet must be housebroken and travel safely, just like they would in your own car.
While there’s no additional fee to bring your furry friend, you may be charged a cleaning or repair cost if the car is returned with excessive hair, odors, or damage.
Charges can vary depending on the rental location, so it’s always best to check the specific pet policy before booking your rental car.
Do Rental Car Companies Charge for Pets?
Most rental car companies don’t charge extra just for bringing pets in rental cars, but they can apply fees if the vehicle comes back messy.
This includes hair on the seats, paw prints on the floor, or unpleasant odors. To avoid surprise charges, cover the seats with a blanket, keep the car tidy, and do a quick inspection before returning the keys.
Always call ahead to confirm the pet policies at your rental location, as rules may vary. And if you’re traveling with a service animal, don’t worry—they’re almost always allowed without any extra hassle.
How to Rent a Pet-Friendly Car?
Renting a pet-friendly car can be simple if you follow a few easy steps.
First, use a reliable app or website that allows pet travel and select the “Pets Allowed” option to secure your ride.
Booking early is always a good idea, especially during busy days, so you don’t miss out on available vehicles.
Before your trip, check the specific pet rules at your destination and pack a small travel kit with water, snacks, and toys for your furry companion.
Make sure to bring a seat cover or blanket to keep the car clean. Most importantly, remember that you are responsible for your pet’s behavior — keeping them safe, comfortable, and stress-free ensures a smooth journey for everyone.
Tips for Traveling with Your Pet in a Rental Car
Traveling with pets in rental cars can be fun, but it’s important to follow the rules and keep your furry friend safe. Here’s a simple guide to make your journey smooth:
- Check the rules first – Always confirm with the rental company whether pets are allowed and ask about any extra fees.
- Keep your pet safe – Use a crate or harness in the back seat so they don’t bounce around while driving.
- Cover the seats – A blanket or seat cover protects the car from fur and scratches.
- Pack the basics – Bring food, water, bowls, a leash, toys, and any required medicine for your pet.
- Take breaks – Stop often to give your pet a chance to use the bathroom, drink water, and stretch.
- Bring comfort items – A favorite toy or blanket helps keep your pet calm during the ride.
- Clean before return – Vacuum and wipe up fur or messes to avoid extra cleaning fees.
- Never leave them alone – Pets can overheat quickly, even if windows are cracked, so never leave them unattended.
Pro Tip: Following these steps ensures both your rental car and your pet stay safe, happy, and stress-free.
How to Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Pet?
- Think About Space: Choose a car where your pet can sit, stand, and stretch comfortably without feeling cramped. A spacious ride ensures your furry friend enjoys the journey as much as you do.
- Check the Seats: Opt for cars with easy-to-clean fabric seats, or use protective covers to handle fur, claws, and muddy paws. This keeps your vehicle clean and stress-free.
- Prioritize Comfort: Good air vents and climate control make a big difference. Keep your pet cool in summer and warm in winter for a safe and comfortable ride.
- Keep It Safe: Always use a harness, pet seatbelt, or crate that fits securely in the car. Safety first keeps both you and your pet protected during travel.
- Easy In, Easy Out: If you have older or smaller pets, consider cars with low doors or ramps. This helps pets hop in and out without strain.
- Pack Smart: Make sure your vehicle has enough storage for essentials like food, bowls, toys, and water. Being prepared makes the trip smoother.
- Stay Calm: Accessories like tinted windows, seat hammocks, or blankets can help nervous pets feel relaxed. A calm environment reduces anxiety during car rides.
What Happens If You Have a Pet in a Rental Car?
Bringing a pet into a rental car without checking the rules can get you into trouble. Many companies have strict no-pet policies, except for service animals or at certain pet-friendly locations.
If pets are not allowed, you could face fines, cleaning fees, or even be denied future rentals. Even when pets are allowed, you may be charged if the car comes back dirty, smelly, or damaged.
To stay safe, always ask the rental company about their policy, use a crate or seat cover, and return the car spotless to avoid any extra costs.
What to Do If My Pet Damages a Rental Car?
If your pet scratches, chews, or leaves a mess in a rental car, don’t panic, but act fast. First, take clear photos and videos of the damage so you have proof.
Then call the rental company right away and explain what happened. Check your rental agreement to see what rules apply, and look into your insurance or credit card coverage, as some may help with repair costs.
For bigger issues, you may need a police report. Be ready to pay for cleaning or repairs, but handling it honestly keeps things simple.
Conclusion
Bringing your pet along in a rental car is possible, but only if you plan ahead. Always check if rental services allow pets in rental cars, and ask about cleaning fees, damage charges, or safety rules.
Some pet-friendly car rental companies make it simple, but every branch may have its own rules. To keep things stress-free, use a crate, seat cover, or harness, and always return the car neat and odor-free.
Whether you’re traveling across cities or borders, following the pet-friendly car rental policy helps you avoid surprises. With the right prep, both you and your pet enjoy the ride.
FAQs
Yes, most rental car companies allow dogs, but rules vary. Some require pets to be created or secured, while others only ask you to return the car clean. Always check the rental branch policy before booking to avoid extra fees.
Most companies don’t charge an upfront pet fee. However, you may be billed for cleaning or detailing if the car is returned with fur, odors, or stains.
Pet damage usually means scratched seats, chewed parts, strong odors, or heavy fur. Charges depend on the level of repair or cleaning needed and can range from $50 to several hundred dollars.
Yes, some smaller or local rental agencies may prohibit pets except for service animals. Always confirm the policy before booking.
It’s not always required, but it’s highly recommended. Many companies advise using a crate, carrier, or harness for safety and to protect the car’s interior.
Yes, but you are responsible for keeping the car clean and safe. Some companies may restrict the number of animals, so it’s best to call ahead.
Most pet car rental companies do not set weight or size limits. However, larger pets may need bigger vehicles, like SUVs or vans, for comfort and safety.
Yes. Service animals are always allowed, and rental companies cannot charge extra fees for them. They are not required to be in carriers.
Rental companies usually don’t ask for health papers. But if you’re crossing borders or traveling long distances, you may need vaccination records or certificates for your pet, depending on local laws.
Use a seat cover or blanket, keep your pet in a crate if possible, and vacuum or wipe down the car before returning it. A clean return means no extra fees.
Hair, odors, stains, or scratches are considered extra wear. If they’re found, you could be charged a cleaning or repair fee.
Yes, but only in pet-friendly rentals. Cats and small pets are often fine if secured in carriers. Birds and reptiles may be restricted. Always ask before booking.
Yes, but you must follow travel and health rules for pets in the new state or country. Some borders require health certificates or vaccination proof.
No, it’s unsafe and strongly discouraged. Pets can overheat quickly, even with windows cracked. Rental companies may fine you for neglect or damage.
Use washable seat covers, pet crates, or harnesses to keep your pet safe and protect the car. Mats help catch dirt and fur.
No, most rental insurance does not cover pet damage. Cleaning, odors, or scratches are usually billed directly to you.
Yes, the car must be returned in good condition. If pet hair, dirt, or smells are left behind, you may face a cleaning fee.
It’s best to tell them at the time of booking. This ensures they confirm the branch’s pet policy and prepare a suitable car.
Most companies recommend pets stay in the back seat for safety. Airbags in the front can harm pets during sudden stops.
You are fully responsible. The rental company’s insurance usually won’t cover pet-related accidents. Veterinary costs or repairs are your responsibility.
