• Dog-friendly events For some attendees, being a dog owner can create stress when attempting to get away for meetings, events, and retreats. Boarding a pet isn’t the most ideal situation in all cases, but you can help your attendees by providing them ‘pet-friendly’ options for your event. Rules & Guidelines Make sure your attendees are aware of all the pet related rules and guidelines specifically for your event prior to their entrance. Make sure to establish limits, have all the required paperwork, and be prepared for the four-legged attendees. (For details reference, Dog Friendly Conference by Amy Hempe from our Spring 2018 issue. www.MWMeet.com/DogFriendly ) |
If the hotel property you have contracted with does not allow pets, offer a list of venues near the meeting site which are pet-friendly to those who inquire. Take it to the next level by offering names of reputable Doggy Daycares in the area (the CVB should be able to help you).
Map It
Take time to locate trails, dog parks, and veterinary services near your event venue. This will be a helpful addition to your attendees time management while caring for their dog and making it to their intended event sessions.
Outdoor Entertainment
Consider local breweries with pet-friendly atmospheres and outdoor patios or hosting live music in a park, giving pet owners the opportunity to socialize with leash in hand.
Niche Group
Create a pet-owner list opt-in for those traveling to the event with a pet. Morning walks are a great time to network with like-minded colleagues.
As support animals become more active in meetings and events, make sure to throw your attendees, and their dogs, a bone by making their experience the best it can be.