Jack and Duke’s Review of Nashville Dog-Friendly Hotels – Music City’s Finest Hotels Roll Out Their Red Carpets for Dogs and Other Four-Legged Friends
Article by Paul Stanley
Photography by Solomon Davis
Originally published in Brentwood Lifestyle
Booking hotels for your summer travel plans can be challenging if you’re dog is riding shotgun. Fear not because some of Nashville’s most popular and luxurious hotels are dog-friendly.
It didn’t seem fair to write this article solely from a human perspective. So, to lend credibility to our efforts, we invited Jack (Publisher Jen Kaufman’s 6-month old pup) and Duke (Publisher Jen Downs 4-year-old rescue dog) along to gain their “paw-print” of approval.
While the life of working models is grueling at times, Jack and Duke enjoyed all the pampering and belly rubs they could handle, not to mention sampling a variety of organic treats and spring water. Here is a run-down of Nashville-area hotel properties that welcome pets.
Jack and Duke’s Dog-Friendly Hotel Review
The Hermitage Hotel, known as one of Nashville’s premier luxury properties, played a historical role during the women’s suffrage movement. Fortunately, Jack, Duke, and their furry pals don’t have to work as hard for their rights. The property’s Pampered Paws Program includes in-room dining for pets, nightly turndown service, optional walking services, specialty bedding, and organic welcome treats.
On the chance you forgot to grab your pet’s leash, the hotel keeps a stash so you and your best furry friend can enjoy an early-morning or afternoon stroll around the grounds of the state capitol. Pet owners may also request additional services through the hotel’s concierge.
Remember, with most pet-friendly hotels, advanced reservations are required or recommended so they can prepare for your visit.
Don’t think for a moment that your dog must stay behind if you visit the hotel’s spa. The Hermitage Hotel’s four-legged amenities include the services of a pet masseuse. Ah, the life of a dog! Duke highly recommends the ear-scratch and lower belly rub combo.
(Hermitage Hotel quote) Dee Patel – dpatel@thehermitagehotel.com
The Thompson Nashville is another luxury property that welcomes pets. Guests may bring two pets at no additional charge, and the hotel requires owners to sign a pet agreement at check-in. Well-behaved pets like Jack can also be left alone in your room. If crated, housekeeping will enter to perform their services.
Upon entering the Thompson Hotel, Jack and Duke found fresh water bowls and beds. Several small, grassy areas surround the hotel property. However, guests should pick up after their pets when using these areas.
(Thompson Hotel quote) chrissy@candrpr.com
Other Pet-Friendly Nashville-Area Hotels
According to Bring Fido, there are at least 194 pet-friendly hotels in the Nashville area. Bring Fido rates hotels by a “bone” rating, with five bones being the highest. Besides the two Jack and Duke experienced on their day-trip, other notable hotels include:
????? Hotels
The Graduate
Virgin Hotels
Sheraton Grand, Downtown
Hays Street Hotel
Hutton Hotel
Hilton Downtown
Marriott Residence Inn, Airport
21c Museum Hotel
Hotel Indigo
Fairlane Hotel
Hyatt Place, Cool Springs / Franklin
Grand Ole RV Resort
The Haynes Street Hotel
???? Hotels
Aloft Nashville
Loews Vanderbilt
Homewood Suites, Downtown
Hotel Preston
Comfort Inn Nashville West
The Westin Nashville
Drury Plaza Hotel Franklin
Hilton Garden Inn, Vanderbilt
Knowing there are multiple Nashville-area dog-friendly hotels to choose from is a relief. The other great news is that there are many restaurants, parks, and tourist attractions that welcome dogs. However, it’s always best to confirm by checking the establishment’s website, social media pages or calling ahead to inquire.
Dog-Friendly Restaurant Options
There’s no question Jack and Duke love bedding down in style. However, they also enjoy accompanying two-legged family members to dog-friendly eateries. According to Duke, people-watching isn’t just a human hobby.
Over the past decade, many restaurants have adopted dog-friendly policies. Chances are if you see a water bowl near the front entrance, that’s a good indication the establishment welcomes pets.
Some of Nashville’s top-rated restaurants and brewpubs welcome both owners and pets. Here are just a few Jack and Duke might enjoy.
????? Restaurants & Pubs
Edley’s Bar-B-Que
Urban Grub
Fat Bottom Brewing
The Slider House
Star Bagel Cafe
Hurry Back
Two Bits
Village Pub & Brew Garden
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Germantown Pub
12 South Taproom & Grill
Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant, Downtown Nashville
Puckett’s Leiper’s Fork
Mellow Mushroom
Mere Bulls, Brentwood
Jack and Duke’s Traveling Tips
Traveling with your dog can be a pleasure. However, there are several tips from the American Kennel Club to make certain both of you have a wonderful experience.
Before embarking on any trip with your pet, make certain they are healthy and all vaccinations are current. Airlines often require health certificates when accommodating pets. Veterinarians also recommend you prepare for any potential emergencies by compiling a list of local veterinary clinics that welcome traveling patients. Your hotel’s concierge or front-desk may be able to provide a list of pet services too.
Like most dogs, Jack and Duke prefer to stay off-leash as much as possible. However, for the safety of them and other travelers, make sure you bring along a short leash and a crate.
While a young Jack seemingly believes the entire human race exists to scratch under his chin and remind him how handsome he is, remember not all hotel guests adore four-legged family members. Therefore, make certain your pet is on-leash when exiting a vehicle and entering the hotel lobby.
And, don’t forget to provide the opportunity for your pet to relieve themselves before receiving stares of admiration as they prance through the lobby doors. Pet crate’s should be large enough for your pet to stand and turn around in. A comfortable mat, water supply, and even their favorite chew toy are excellent additions.
Proper identification tags are also a must. Along with Jack and Duke’s name, pet ID tags should include the owner’s name and phone number, and proof of rabies shots. If you plan on being away for more than a few days, having an extra tag is recommended.
Veterinarians also recommend having your pet skip a meal right before leaving home. Sometimes just the excitement of new surroundings and people can overwhelm pets, causing them to relieve themselves accidentally.
Dog owners are fortunate that there are so many Nashville-area hotels, restaurants, and parks that welcome pets. Again, make sure you double check an establishment’s pet policies. Then, both you and your pet can enjoy all that Nashville and the surrounding area has to offer.
