Tips for traveling with your pet

Our pets are our family. For some, leaving their four-legged friend at home while they travel is difficult to imagine. That’s why Boston Park Plaza is proud to be known as one of the best dog friendly hotels in Boston.

To make sure you get the most from your travels with your pet, we spoke with our Director of Revenue Management, Shawn Goodwin, who often brings Sadie, his Australian cattle dog mix on his trips. He shared some of his top-dog tips with us.

ONE: Make spaces feel like home.

Bring a toy or blanket from home. This touch helps your dog have something of their own to focus on, and makes the unfamiliar surroundings feel more familiar. “I find that putting Sadie’s blanket on the floor or bed helps her settle in much quicker,” Shawn says.

TWO: Bring the essentials. But just the essentials.

Remember to bring what you need for your dog daily. Pack a collapsible water and food bowl, favorite treats, and of course, waste bags. But don’t overpack. Consider how long you and your pet will be away from home. “Ask yourself, do I really need all their toys and a whole bag of dog food?” Shawn says.

If you have forgotten something, or are looking for a gift for your dog, there are several pet shops nearby. A few blocks from our property is D’Tails Pet Boutique, at 73 Berkeley Street. It is a pet store that also offers grooming services. Another option is Loyal Companion at 1030 Washington Street, where grooming services are available too.

If you want to combine some shopping for your dog as well as for yourself, consider Fish and Bones. Located at 217 Newbury Street, it is a pet store set amid stylish boutiques for Humans.

Is your dog deserving a treat? Then drop into a Polka Dog Bakery. With several locations in town, you’ll find specialty items that your dog with love.

THREE: Plan for them to stretch all four legs.

Fortunately, not only is Boston Park Plaza dog friendly, it’s well located for pets. “Nearby Statler Park is the spot to run your pet out for a quick bathroom break,” Shawn says.

On-leash walks

The city offers many wonderful areas to explore with your companion on-leash. Commonwealth Avenue, just a few short blocks from our front door, is ideal for a longer walk. You can take in the selection of statues and public art on the boulevard, while your dog enjoys the scents and grass along the way.

Or consider the Charles River Esplanade. It’s a 17-mile stretch of parkland, that, as the name implies, follows the Charles River. Alternatively, the Public Garden, just blocks from our front door, is an iconic destination for a walk.

Off-leash parks

If you are looking for an off-leash park for your social-loving pooch, the Public Garden has designated off-leash areas. Note that the area is not fenced, and dogs of all sizes and breeds will be there. The most social times (for both of you) are 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. While your dog plays with others, you can meet some local pet owners.

For a fenced dog park near the hotel, visit the Bay Village Dog Park at 114 Charles Street. There is also fenced dog park at Peters Park, 1205 Washington Street. It’s a bit of a walk but an easy one.

Shawn reminds all dog owners not to put your pet in any situation you wouldn’t at home. “New territory can make us all feel a little uncomfortable, so if your dog loves being social and off leash, then enjoy. But otherwise maybe go for an extended walk on leash and explore the neighborhood together. It’s safer for you both.”

Or have others walk your dog

Depending on your schedule, you may be looking for a dog walker. Local services such as Boston Dog Butlers will take your dog for a walk, to the park to play, or for a grooming appointment. But please plan ahead. Most services require an extensive phone consultation to get to know you and your pet before they schedule services.

FOUR: Enjoy the city together.

When you’re exploring the city, take your dog with you. There are a lot of activities and restaurants that welcome pets. Boston embraces nice weather days and from early spring to late fall many restaurants with outdoor patios allow guests to have their pets with them.

Boston Park Plaza is one of the most centrally located, pet-friendly hotels in Boston. We don’t have a size, height or breed restriction, and allow up to two pets per room. Note that there is a one-time cleaning fee. (Sorry, not cats or other pets allowed.) We look forward to welcoming you and your four-legged companion soon.

About Us

Boston Park Plaza is so much more than a hotel. We are a Boston icon, integral to the city’s heritage. As one of the best hotels in Boston, we offer a true one-of-a-kind experience, as richly textured and profoundly memorable as Boston itself.