Pet Friendly Hotels in West Texas

by Sheila Williams

Candlewood Suites, Fort Stockton, Texas

We (Phoebe Rose, my traveling Pug, and I) stopped over in Fort Stockton on a recent road trip from Las Cruces, New Mexico to Austin, Texas.

I was impressed that Candlewood Suites manager Paul Amayo made a point of responding to guest reviews on Trip Advisor —usually a sign that management actually cares about guest comfort.

I wasn’t disappointed, but actually pleasantly surprised that this relatively new (built 3 years ago) pet friendly extended stay property (the average guest stays 7 days) was

immaculately clean, attractively furnished and attention to guest comfort was in the details: a fully equipped modern kitchen (full sized refrigerator, dishwasher and stove top range), 100% cotton towels and bedding, soundproof rooms, wood flooring, ceramic tiles and granite counters.

A complimentary American style breakfast (fresh, fruit, coffee and instant oatmeal) is provided as well as an “honor system” brown bag breakfast and snacks shop. There is a convenient pet walking area with doggie waste bags.

General Manager Paul (frequently accompanied by his pup, Chloe), advised that future plans include scratching posts for feline guests and pet food and water bowls.

I picked up some groceries at the nearby Walmart (only fast food restaurants nearby), cooked dinner and relaxed, enjoying the complimentary microwave popcorn and movie from the hotel’s DVD library.

We got up the next morning, well rested and ready to get back on the road.

 

Information: Candlewood Suites, 2469 West IH-10, Fort Stockton, Texas, (877) 660-8543. Suites are $134.99 including free parking, WIFI, gym and laundry facilities. Pet friendly rooms (the limit is 2 pets per room-under 80 lbs) are restricted to the 3rd floor. The pet fee is $35.00 per pet, per stay. Room Tip: Rooms are soundproof so location is not an issue.

Hotel Paisano, Marfa, Texas

Hotel Paisano is a pet friendly property—-all pets welcome (although management discourages pet armadillos (“they dig”) and encourages cages for exotic pets).

Well mannered pets have access to the entire property (except the interior of the restaurant). They are allowed on the outdoor patio dining area and even around the perimeter of the outdoor swimming pool.

The rooms are small (to be expected in a historic hotel) but charmingly respected and upgraded for modern comfort with WIFI, attractively furnished and immaculately tiled bathroom with rainforest shower and quality bath products.

Our room had a private patio with wood burning fireplace—a practical as well as esthetic enhancement, as evenings can turn surprisingly cool.

The hotel has an excellent restaurant and full bar (the only one in town) open for dinner. Local eateries are upscale and healthy and a pet park is located nearby.

Marfa is a tiny, quirky, artist town, a great place to stop off and explore (5 hours from Austin) and don’t forget to check out the mysterious and unsolved mystery of the “Marfa Lights.”

 

Information: Hotel Paisano, 207 Highland Street, Marfa, Texas, (432) 729-3669. Dog weight restrictions (under 20 lbs) are “flexible.” $40 (plus tax) pet fee per night. Room rates start at $99.

Hotel El Capitan, Van Horn, Texas

This was our second stay at the charming historic Hotel El Capitan in Van Horn, Texas. We stayed here on a road trip to Austin last May and looked forward to returning.

I particularly enjoyed the dinner at the hotel the last time—although there is a new chef, the food is still well prepared, attractively presented and fresh. The Spring Salmon was tasty and even gluten-free pasta is on the menu!

Although the service can be leisurely—no one is in a hurry in this town, so relax and enjoy.

Pets are welcome to dine on the hotel patio—but BYOB (bring your own bowl) since pet bowls are not yet provided by restaurant or in rooms. The Gopher Hole Bar is a popular watering hole with guests and locals.

The charming historic rooms are small (as expected)—1930’s accommodations were never spacious, but nicely restored and the bathrooms are updated with upscale touches. Our queen courtyard room had a mini railing and a view of the courtyard fountain. The railroad tracks are in view and passing trains just added to the vintage ambience.

All pets are welcome (General Manager, Ralph Gilmore does draw the line at snakes). The lobby and living room are tastefully furnished with retro decor and mirror the esthetics of sister, Hotel Paisano in Marfa—both designed by renowned Southwest architect, Henry Trost.

Hotel El Capitan is a perfect spot to relax, rest and refresh before continuing on your road trip.

Information: Hotel El Capitan, 100 E. Broadway, Van Horn, Texas, (877) 283-1220. The pet fee is $15 per stay. There is no pet weight limit. Rooms start at $99.

Photos by the author.