Feeling overwhelmed by election stress? This hotel has a delightful remedy.

Aloft Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy, is partnering with animal shelters in cities like New York, Milwaukee, Austin, and Atlanta for a puppy cuddling event on November 5 called “Not Watch Pawties.”

The “Not Watch Pawties” will feature adorable puppies aimed at providing a comforting break from the often chaotic political environment, Aloft Hotels stated in a press release, emphasizing that these events are intended to help news-fatigued Americans unwind on election night.

According to a recent APA study, nearly 69% of U.S. adults view the 2024 presidential election as a major source of stress, an increase from 52% in 2016. Over 70% of adults express fears that election results could lead to violence, while almost one-third have noted increasing tension and distance in family relationships.

Locations for the ‘Not Watch Pawties’

These events will take place on election night, starting at 5 p.m. at various Aloft locations nationwide:

• Aloft New York, Chelsea from 5 – 7 p.m.
• Aloft Atlanta at the Battery from 5 – 7 p.m.
• Aloft Orlando Downtown from 5 – 9 p.m.
• Aloft Austin Downtown from 5 – 7 p.m.
• Aloft Milwaukee Downtown from 5 – 7 p.m.

No registration or fees are needed; guests are welcome to simply show up at any of the mentioned locations to enjoy some furry companionship and relieve their stress. Aloft will also provide free puppy-themed snacks and beverages, including Puppucinos and Chocolate Bark-tinis.

A serene way to unplug from Election Day chaos

“Right now, everyone could use a chance to unwind, and we thought sharing the comfort of dogs in both online and face-to-face settings this election season would be wonderful,” said Aloft Hotels executive Brian Jaymont. “We hope our calming video and ‘Not Watch Pawties’ offer a moment to relax and reset, even if just for a short while.”

In an email shared with YSL News, Jaymont emphasized that the hotel wanted to provide an escape from the Election Day frenzy through moments spent with local shelter dogs alongside delightful puppy-themed food and drinks after casting their votes.

Research from Johns Hopkins Medicine indicates that interacting with dogs significantly lowers stress levels. Petting dogs can reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, while increasing oxytocin, known as the ‘feel-good hormone.’

The animal shelters collaborating with Aloft include Rescue City in NYC, Rescue Gang in Milwaukee, and Pet Rescue by Judy in Orlando.

Stay ‘pawsitive’

For those who cannot attend the Not Watch Pawties, Aloft has created a video called “Election Escape Meditation Video” meant to help viewers disconnect from stress and embrace tranquility, wherever they may be.

This 47-minute guided meditation features an adorable black and white dog encouraging viewers to take mindfulness moments, stretch, and stay “pawsome.”