can dogs travel in rental cars

[Bentley]

Yes, dogs can travel in rental cars, but it requires careful planning and adherence to specific company policies. The answer isn't a simple yes or no; it varies significantly by rental company and often involves fees and restrictions. Your first step should always be to call the rental location directly to confirm their pet policy, as corporate guidelines can be interpreted differently by franchisees.

The primary concern for rental companies is damage and cleaning. Pet hair, dander, scratches, and accidents can lead to hefty cleaning fees or damage charges, which are often separate from the standard rental cost. To avoid this, using a quality pet carrier or harness is non-negotiable. A secured crate is the safest option for your dog and protects the car's interior.

Some companies, like Enterprise and Alamo, officially allow pets but may charge a cleaning fee only if evidence of soiling or excessive hair is found. Others are more strict. The table below summarizes policies from major US rental agencies, but remember to verify with your specific location.

Rental Company	Official Pet Policy	Potential Fees & Key Conditions
Enterprise	Pets allowed	Fee applies only if cleaning is necessary (e.g., hair, odors, stains).
Alamo	Pets allowed	A fee may be charged if the vehicle requires extra cleaning.
Hertz	Varies by location	Many locations allow pets in carriers; service animals always permitted.
Avis	Varies by location	Policy is location-specific; always call ahead to confirm.
Budget	Varies by location	Dependent on the franchisee's rules; fees are not standardized.
National	Generally allows pets	A cleaning fee may be assessed if the car is returned with mess or hair.

Beyond company rules, prioritize your dog's safety. Never let them ride in the front seat or with their head out the window. Plan for frequent breaks on long trips and never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, as temperatures can become dangerous in minutes. With proper preparation, traveling with your dog in a rental car can be a smooth experience for everyone.

[EmmaFitz]

I just went through this for a road trip with my golden retriever. You absolutely can, but you have to do your homework. I called three different locations of the same rental company and got three slightly different answers. One said a small fee, another said it was fine as long as there was no mess, and the third was a flat "no." My advice? Get a customer service rep's name and note the time you called. A good, heavy-duty hammock for the backseat was a lifesaver—it kept the upholstery completely clean from hair and muddy paws.

[BriellaLee]

Think of it from the rental company's perspective: their main asset is the car's condition. A dog represents a potential mess and wear-and-tear. Your mission is to reassure them. I always use a hard-sided crate. It’s the safest option for my dog and shows the agent I’m serious about protecting their vehicle. When I pick up the car, I casually mention, "Just so you know, he'll be in his crate the whole time." This proactive approach has never failed me, and I've never been charged an extra fee.