The state of Florida has collaborated with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association to waive pet policies at lodging establishments as Hurricane Milton approaches. This initiative, directed by Governor DeSantis, aims to provide evacuees with a safe place for themselves and their pets. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and FloridaCommerce have been instrumental in implementing this policy change.
Floridians seeking accommodation can use emergency portals set up by VISIT FLORIDA in partnership with Expedia and Priceline. Lodging operators who have waived pet fees are encouraged to complete DBPR’s Lodging Pet Fee Waiver Information Sheet. A list of participating hotels is available at www2.myfloridalicense.com/emergency.
"The flexibility of a waived pet policy can be the difference in a family deciding to evacuate a flood zone and seek safe shelter," said Melanie S. Griffin, Secretary of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. She expressed gratitude towards the 71,000 lodging licensees who have already relaxed their policies.
FloridaCommerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly emphasized the importance of accommodating pets during such emergencies, stating, "Pets are an incredible part of so many families across our state." He acknowledged the continued support from Florida's lodging establishments.
Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, highlighted the crucial role hotels play during emergencies: "It is critical that hotels relax or waive their no-pet policies and pet fees to ensure that families safely evacuate."
Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, stressed the importance of including pets in evacuation plans: "We spend all year encouraging residents to make a family disaster plan that includes their pets."
Hurricane Milton is expected to impact Florida's Gulf Coast with severe weather conditions. Residents are advised to stay informed through @FLSERT on social media or visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for more information.