Pet friendly hotels

Recently I stayed at a "pet friendly" hotel and when I looked into the pet policy I discovered that they require a $150.00, non refundable, deposit. A Residence Inn I frequently stay at wants $50.00 for the first night and $10 for each night thereafter, non redundable of course. I see dogs at these hotels all the time, are people really paying these fees?

I have a new puppy and wonder if I should just not mention the dog when I check in (ask forgiveness rather than permission). I know there are hotels that do not charge for pets. Which ones do you use????