Traveling with a pet can be a delightful yet challenging experience, as highlighted by Waverly Colville’s recent journey with her rescue Maltipoo, Tati, around New York City. Colville, a podcast host and freelance video producer, embarked on a three-day adventure with Tati serving as a chief hotel inspector for the dog-training app Woofz. Rescued just a few months earlier in June 2023, Tati has anxious tendencies, making her a discerning critic for pet-friendly establishments. Despite the chaos of the city, Colville discovered that NYC has its soft spots for pets, showcasing a blend of excitement and joy in their experiences.
Their first standout destination was the Kimpton Hotel Eventi, where Tati received a warm welcome package complete with a bed and bowls. Colville appreciated the hotel’s location in a dog-friendly area, enhancing their stay. Another highlight was The Wilson, which featured its own dog menu. The human food also impressed Colville, showcasing that good food isn’t exclusive to humans but extends to their furry companions as well. Overall, Colville found that these pet-friendly hotels provided a home away from home for both her and Tati.
The Standard Hotel also proved to be a favorable choice for their stay. Colville cherished the thoughtful touches like Tati’s dog bed and bowls within their room, making the visit more comfortable. Dining at the Standard Grill became a ritual, where Tati napped contentedly under the table while Colville enjoyed her meals. However, she cautioned future travelers that not all parts of the Meatpacking District are pet-friendly, particularly well-visited areas like the High Line and Little Island, which do not permit dogs.
Venturing beyond hotels, Colville and Tati found joy in places like Pier 57’s Market 57, a food hall that offered stunning rooftop views and a welcoming atmosphere. Their excitement led them to plan a return visit for a dog-friendly happy hour at City Winery, demonstrating how the city’s charm is amplified with the right pet-friendly spots. Additionally, the W Hotel Union Square impressed Colville with its amenities and upbeat pet-friendly vibe, proving advantageous for both pet and owner. The convenient urban neighborhood, complete with a dog park and pet-friendly restaurants, further solidified its appeal.
While exploring, both Colville and Tati reveled in their time together, with Tati gleefully trotting alongside her owner. Colville reflected on the importance of planning for a successful trip with a pet, emphasizing that a bit of forethought can elevate a potentially chaotic environment into a joyful experience. The companionship of a pet can foster warmth and light amid the bustling city, creating cherished memories on the road.
For other pet owners eager to emulate their successful adventure, Karen Piwinski, a certified lead dog trainer at Woofz, shared essential travel tips. Using protective PAW booties can safeguard dogs from hot pavement and hazardous materials, while doing thorough research on dog-friendly venues can save headaches later. Piwinski also emphasized the need for clean accommodations and the responsibility of leaving spaces cleaner than found, imparting wisdom to maintain decorum while traveling with pets. By following these recommendations, pet parents can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience traveling with their beloved furry companions.
