In fact, this is not breaking news, but it certainly surprised me to learn today that eight more properties in Sin City now welcome guests traveling with dogs. Under the “PetStay” program, launched about a month ago at the three Caesars properties on the list, rooms are set aside for visiting dogs and their owners in seven hotel/casinos on the Strip (Caesars Palace, Paris, Planet Hollywood, Harrahs, the Flamingo, Bally’s and the Imperial Palace) and at the Rio, just off the Strip. I’m agog, because until now, the only hotels on the Strip to allow pet dogs to stay with guests were the Four Seasons, THEhotel and the Cosmopolitan.

Up to two dogs are allowed per room, each 50 lbs. or less. Pet dogs still may not join their owners in casinos, but may “walk through designated common areas while on a leash and accompanied by the owner.” The pet fee is, per night, $40 at Caesars Palace, $35 at Paris, Planet Hollywood, Harrahs, the Flamingo, Bally’s and Rio, and $25 at Imperial Palace. Visiting dogs are greeted with a packet of goodies, including dishes and a mat, dog treats, poop bags, and information about nearby “outdoor relief areas and dog walking routes.” Check out this November 2010 post from the Pulse of Las Vegas, with heaps of pictures, about the first pet dog to stay at Caesars Palace under the new program (please note that the pet fee has increased since November, as has the number of participating resorts).