A pet’s ‘cuteness’ can influence intentions to book Airbnbs and rental stays, suggests new study

Does a Cute Pet Boost Your Airbnb Booking? Science Says Yes!

Scrolling through Airbnb and see a listing with an adorable dog or cat? You might be more tempted to book than you realize! New research reveals that featuring pets, especially cute ones, can significantly influence booking decisions.

A study published in the International Journal of Hospitality Management found that a host’s furry friend can “reduce psychological distance” and make them seem more welcoming. Associate Professor Lu Lu from Temple University’s School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management, discovered that the “cuteness” factor of pets can actually sway potential guests to book a stay. Think big eyes, small noses – features that trigger our nurturing instincts!

The Power of the “Baby Schema”

Lu explains that this effect is tied to the “baby schema” concept, our innate predisposition to find features similar to babies irresistibly cute. This translates to wanting to “protect” these seemingly vulnerable animals, influencing our decision-making, even when booking a vacation rental.

Cute vs. Not-So-Cute: Does it Matter?

The researchers conducted experiments using various animals categorized by “cuteness” levels. The results? Listings with those undeniably adorable pets (think fluffy kittens and playful puppies) saw a much higher booking likelihood compared to those featuring less conventionally “cute” animals.

Not Everyone’s a Pet Person (Especially the “Unique” Ones)

Interestingly, the study also found that guests with a “strong need for uniqueness” were less likely to be swayed by the presence of pets.

The Pandemic Pet Boom & Your Next Getaway

With pet ownership surging since the pandemic, fueled by the positive impact pets have on mental well-being, this research highlights the growing importance of our furry companions. So, next time you’re browsing for an Airbnb, pay attention to those listings with pets. You might just find yourself booking a stay thanks to the irresistible charm of a four-legged host! Airbnb Pets Travel PetFriendly CuteAnimals VacationRentals

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