I normally reconfirm my hotel reservations a few days out to make sure they have all my preferences ready when I check in. I find it easier to ask for things through email than at check in because there may be many requests like high floor, away from elevator, view, upgrade, dog bowls, dog bed, etc. Kimpton has trained me to do this, I always receive an email from them a few days before my stay inquiring if I have any preferences I'd like them to know about, it comes especially in handy when traveling with dogs like I often do.