Do you love to travel, but hate to leave your four-footed friends behind? When visiting Houston , you can have the best of both worlds. You and your pets can comfortably enjoy this lively and entertaining city. South Texas is full of lakes and parks in which you and your dog can cavort. If you are bringing your cat, they are sure to love having a new environment to explore. A number of hotels in the greater Houston area have provisions to allow your pets to stay with you.

Best Western Park Place Houston Medical Center is located in a very convenient part of town. Six Flags AstroWorld, Reliant Stadium, The Galleria, and the Texas Medical Center are within easy traveling distance. This hotel accepts pets that weigh 25 pounds or less. A non-refundable, one-time fee of $75.00 is charged for the duration of your stay. In addition to allowing pets, they offer numerous amenities, including a free continental breakfast and an outdoor pool.

La Quinta Inn Houston Brookhollow is located northwest of downtown. They also provide a complimentary continental breakfast and accept pets under 25 pounds. This hotel does not charge a pet fee. For accommodations in Uptown Houston , try the Ramada Plaza Hotel near the Galleria. Located in the heart of the shopping and entertainment districts, they accept pets for a nominal fee. If you have a large dog, Howard Johnson Express Inn Astrodome/Medical Center allows dogs of any size for a one-time, non-refundable fee of $35.00.

If you are in Houston for a NASA function, the Holiday Inn NASA Clear Lake nearby allows pets that weigh less than 20 pounds for a non-refundable, one-time fee of $50.00. You will also find an onsite fitness center, children's playground, and an outdoor pool with a unique, location-appropriate shape. This hotel is located on the outskirts of Houston , so plan to stay here only if you have a specific reason to be in this area.

Leaving your pets behind when you travel can be both emotionally distressing and expensive. Houston has dozens of hotels that allow pets of various sizes for less than the cost of a boarding fee. When planning your next trip, go ahead and bring your pet along for the ride, but remember to verify the pet policies and fees with your

hotel, as the details can change without notice.