Trained dogs are very, very good at detecting bedbugs - they can detect two chemicals in particular emitted by bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) in parts per trillion. But they are not infallible - part of their effectiveness depends on their training and the currency of that training, the handler, etc. Hotels generally try to avoid using them due to the cost - though some may have contracts with bed bug detection and control companies.

It's also not possible to tell from a bite whether it was administered by a bed bug or other biting insect (yep, cimicids are indeed insects.) People are more likely to detect small brown (from hemoglobin) fecal smears near bedboards, on the sheets, etc. as diagnostic clues.

There are many repellents on the market - none of them are actually certified or verified by independent labs or the US Gov to actually work. Heat does kill 'em, and it's said 115 F / 46 C for ten minutes will kill C. lectularius in all stages - your dryer may be your friend, if your clothing has been sealed in bags and the bugs have not infested your suitcase from contaminated clothing.

You can at least derive a little satisfaction knowing how these buggers reproduce - the male rips into the female's abdominal cavity to traumatically inseminate her, and sometimes even tears into other males. I hope it hurts... :evil grin:

I'd press the Hilton SF for more transparency and if not forthcoming press HH. (If you happened to book with AAA rate or have an AAA card, check out their policy for getting your money back - you have to file within thirty days.)

Smell almonds or over-ripe raspberries in your room? Get the heck outta the room, dude - you've got 'way too much company!