Rescue becomes hotel inspector to see which are up to snuff

Being responsible for yourself when you travel is hard enough (Where did I stash my keys again? Did I leave that scarf in the hotel closet? Is that coffee date calendar hold in the right time zone?). Add a pet into the mix and that’s a whole other headache. Or, perhaps we mean joy, as Waverly Colville, a podcast host and freelance video producer based in Bushwick, and her dog Tati, recently discovered.

Over three days, Colville led her rescue Maltipoo around New York City as the pup took on a gig as chief hotel inspector for a dog-training app, Woofz.

Tati, who was rescued in June 2023 by Colville and her boyfriend after they found her abandoned at a plant store in Brooklyn, has anxious tendencies, so the pet parent knew the dog would be a discerning critic if so-called pet-friendly hotels weren’t up to sniff and snuff.

“NYC might be loud and fast and everything else people say, but it really does have a soft spot for pups,” said Colville of their whirlwind adventure. “Tati chased squirrels in Union Square, struck a few dramatic poses on rooftop lawns, and somehow charmed someone at The Wilson into bringing her green apple and celery,” added Colville.

Throughout their paw-fessional adventures, a few standouts emerged. First, the Kimpton Hotel Eventi (851 Sixth Ave.) was a winner. “It’s in a super dog-friendly area and even had a welcome package for Tati with a bed and bowls, which made us feel excited to be there,” she said. They also loved the Wilson (132 W. 27th St.), which had its own dog menu (“and the human food was great too”).

The Standard Hotel (848 Washington St.) was also a stellar experience for Colville and Tati. “We got a dog bed and bowls for the room, which was a sweet touch,” said Colville, adding that they ate at the Standard Grill twice, once while Tati napped under the table. That said, Colville reminds travelers to the area that the Meatpacking District isn’t always pet-friendly, with places such as the High Line and Little Island prohibiting four-legged friends.

Still, the pair enjoyed grabbing lunch at Pier 57’s Market 57, a food hall with divine rooftop views. “We had such a good time, we’re planning to return for City Winery’s dog-friendly happy hour (half off a glass of wine per dog!),” said Colville. “Pier 57 is easily one of my favorite dog-friendly spots in the city — chill, scenic and super welcoming.”

Last but not least, for a convenient location and doggy amenities, Colville doesn’t think you can beat the W Hotel Union Square (201 Park Ave. South) “At check-in, the staff came over to pet Tati — she soaked it up — and we got a welcome package with bowls, a bed and pee pads,” she said.

Plus, the neighborhood is a utopia for man’s best friend. In Union Square, “you’ll see dogs everywhere; there’s an off-leash park, a massive Petco and plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating,” said Colville.

Both Colville and Tati loved their recent escapades around town. “Tati left with her tail wagging, and I left reminded that a little planning goes a long way,” said Colville. “The city’s chaotic, sure, but there’s joy around almost every corner — especially when you’ve got your best friend trotting beside you.”

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Travel tips

To make your travels as enjoyable as Colville and Tati’s, Karen Piwinski, certified lead dog trainer at Woofz, urges pet owners to keep these tips in mind.

Use PAW booties

Invest in a good product for paw protection against hot pavements and hazards, said Piwinski, adding that it’s best to acclimate your dog to them first. “There are many hazards when walking around the streets, such as glass, chemicals and trash,” she said. “This will make it safer for their paws.”

Do your research

“Look into cafés and restaurants that allow dogs (generally outside), and also plan out quiet areas for your dog to take a break and relax,” said Piwinski. Secure appropriate accommodations, too. “They will not be able to stay in a car, so be sure they can stay with you in the hotel, or they are welcome at your friend’s or family’s home,” she said. Plus, travel with a water bottle and a collapsible bowl in case they are thirsty, as you may not always have access to water.

Outfit a rental car to be safe, too. “Use a crate or a dog safety belt, to keep them secure and help to avoid injuries,” said Piwinski.

Clean up

This one goes without saying (OK, maybe not in NYC, sadly), but you’ve gotta leave the places you visited cleaner than you found ‘em.

“Always carry bags and wipes for picking up poop,” said Piwinski, noting that dogs may need a quick cleanup if they are nervous and get sick, which can happen on the road. “Traveling is stressful for dogs, and even if they seem well adapted to it, they may have an accident.”