Hundreds of millions of people vacation with their pets each year. If you’re one of them, New York City is the perfect place to visit, as it offers plenty of pet-friendly accommodation places, the public transit system welcomes cats and dogs, and there’s an abundance of fun activities you can share with them.

There is nothing like visiting NYC during or right after the holiday season. While it’s full of festive activities, you might think that nearly all places are off-limits for pets, but that’s not the case in the Empire State. You can find many places and establishments that welcome people and pets alike.

In addition, if something unexpected happens to the well-being of your pet, there are some incredibly cheap pet insurance rates in New York and non-resident pet insurance plans that can help you cover out-of-pocket expenses for illnesses or accidents that might happen to your pet during your trip. 

So, you want to bring your dog along for a trip to the Big Apple? Here are some tips for planning your trip:

Traveling To NYC With Your Pet 

By Train 

Amtrak permits riding with pets on some trains but has strict rules. For instance, you need to keep your pet in a specialized carrier beneath your seat. Your pet needs to be “odorless,” and the company limits the number of pets on each train, so be sure to book in advance.

By Plane 

If you’re flying to NYC, select an airline that can accommodate your pet. Since many airline companies restrict the types and size of animals on their flights, it is best to do your research to ensure you are selecting the right airline, to suit the needs of your furry companion. 

Documentation 

In general, you should always carry proof that you own your pet and that they are fully vaccinated. Moreover, your pet should wear a tag with your contact information and consider a microchip as an extra precaution.

Where To Stay With Your Pet At In NYC 

NYC has a plethora of pet-friendly luxury hotels that offer everything from private pet parks to pet spa treatments. The Roxy Hotel in Tribeca has organic treats and plush bedding. Pets visiting The Benjamin Hotel will be greeted with a tailored gift box and yes, each room has a dedicated pet-friendly mini-bar. Loews Regency Hotel New York caters to pups and cats alike. Luxury dog beds, scratching posts, and litter boxes are all provided. You name it, the Loews Regency Hotel has just what your pet ordered! The best NYC luxury hotels offer pet-friendly perks like custom food menus and grooming. 

Once you have identified your ideal accommodations, think about whether you’ll be leaving your pet alone in the room and, if so, what you’ll need to do to ensure their safety and comfort. Be sure to pack that special toy or blanket. Once checked in, survey the room for potential hazards because it will be a whole new environment for your pet.

Getting Around Town 

Cats and dogs are allowed on the NYC subway trains, but under the condition that they’re kept in a carrier at all times during the ride. The rules on the bus are the same as those for the subway trains, but keep in mind that you’ll have to pass the driver when you board, so ensure that your pet is inside the carrier even before the bus pulls up. 

Pets are also allowed in all NYC taxis as long as the driver is OK with it. If they refuse, there is sure to be another cab within arms reach. Pets in carriers are allowed on NYC-area commuter rail lines, and on Metro-North, you can even have them on a leash outside their carrier. 

Activities to Do With Your Pet In New York 

New York is packed with dog parks and dog runs, some of which have “off-leash hours” for when your pet needs to burn off some energy. Places like Prospect Park offer that possibility, plus it has a specifically designed dog beach for dogs’ bathing pleasures. 

If you’re a fan of sports, particularly baseball, you should know that the New York Mets and their minor league affiliate team host “bark in the park” nights when your dog can sit with you watching the game and even walk around the field.

In the city that never sleeps, there are plenty of ways to experience the magic of NYC!

 

Feature Photo by Eric Han on Unsplash