Base lodging now checks in four-legged guests

  • Published
  • By Shauna Schuster
  • 354th Force Support Squadron marketing
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  When it comes to the military, many people think of getting to move to different places all over the world. We all know that moving a short distance is hard enough--let alone to or from such a unique place as Alaska.

The hardest part for many families is the decision of choosing to leave their beloved pet with a trusted friend or a kennel. The time has come that the decision is no longer needed. The Goldrush Inn is now offering four pet-friendly rooms. Now Fido and Fluffy can stay with you while you are in temporary family lodging.

On June 8, The Goldrush Inn began taking reservations for the pet friendly rooms. There is limited space so be sure to get your reservations in as soon as you can. Reservations will be made on a first-come, first-serve basis regardless of rank.

Maj. Alex Garcia, 354th Force Support Squadron commander, said this transition was a combination of an Air Force trend with lodging, demand from customers and shear convenience.

"It was the most-asked question we get concerning temporary family lodging," Major Garcia said, "plus, this is something TFL is doing across the Air Force, so when we were making renovations to rooms for carpet and furniture, we thought we would offer at least four pet-friendly rooms to begin with and see how it goes."

Keep in mind the pet friendly room refers to canine and feline pets. Any other caged animals 20 pounds or less will need prior approval from the lodging manager before they are allowed to stay in the quarters. The maximum number of pets allowed in the room is two.

When coming to check in with your pet, there are some things you will need to bring with you. First, you will need to provide proof of current immunizations for the pets. (For information on immunizations please contact the veterinary clinic.) Your pets will also need to have identification tags.

Once you head off to your room there will only be a few things you need to bring with you. The Goldrush Inn has provided each room with a kennel, water and food bowls and a pooper-scooper for your use.

However, the items not provided are leashes, litter boxes, litter or food. Although these items are provided for you convenience, you are still responsible for the well-being of your pets.

Because Fido and Fluffy take some extra work to clean the room after they are gone, it will be an additional $10 a night for up to two pets to stay. Also, if there is damage to the room, such as if the couch was used as the potty, it is possible there may be additional fees assessed.

The Goldrush Inn is happy to be allowing our furry friends to stay with us. We look forward to seeing you here soon.

If you have any more questions or concerns, please feel free to contact The Goldrush Inn at 907-377-1844 or DSN 317-377-1844.