With the launch of the Algonquin ♥’s Pets Program, Matilda, the Algonquin Hotel’s famed resident cat opened the doors of the historic Algonquin hotel to other felines and furry friends for the first time in the property’s history. The program, designed by Matilda, features amenities and services that ensure every traveling pet is properly pampered.
Pet guests are greeted with a “purrrsonalized” welcome kit including a welcome letter from Matilda and a detailed list of available services as well as some of Matilda’s favorite hot spots. The pet’s guest room will be arranged prior to arrival with amenities such as food and water bowls, a floor mat, a litter box if needed and essentials for owners such as latex gloves and waste bags. For pets that request special amenities the Algonquin Hotel staff can arrange for everything from specialty foods and snacks to pet’s favorite play toys to be waiting for them in the guest room upon arrival.
“We are delighted to welcome pets with our new program,” said General Manager Gary Budge. “For pet owners, we understand that pets hold a very special place in their lives, and that traveling together is essential. What better place to stay when traveling than a hotel that can offer an ‘insider’s scoop’ of the area?”
The Algonquin Hotel concierge and Matilda have teamed up to ensure that pets don’t lift a paw during their stay. Whether pets seek luxury grooming indulgence, walking or sitting services, maps of Matilda’s choice parks and runs, or her favorite places to shop, Matilda is prepared to divulge all of her top choices and arrange for other pets to enjoy the Big Apple!
The 13-year-old blue-eyed Rag Doll has historically claimed the Algonquin Hotel as her own, enjoying full run of her private domain and avoiding other furry friends. Given last year’s $4.5 million renovation of the hotel however, Matilda has had a change of heart and is ready to show off her upgraded home. What hasn’t changed? Matilda will continue to welcome guests, roam the hallways and slip into private parties. She will also continue to communicate to her friends and fans nationwide through email (matildaalgonquincat@algonquinhotel.com).
Matilda, celebrated in film and literature, is the successor to the Algonquin Hotel’s first feline mascot, Hamlet, a disheveled stray cat who wandered into the hotel in the 1930’s in search of food and shelter. The hotel owner at the time, Frank Case, provided Hamlet with food and a permanent home in the lobby, where he became a hit with guests and visitors. Through the years, the Algonquin Hotel has continued housing a resident feline.
For reservations and information, please call 1-866-363-9011 or visit www.algonquinhotel.com.
About the Algonquin Hotel: A New York City landmark recently named to the National Trust Historic Hotels of America, the Algonquin Hotel is located in the heart of midtown Manhattan at 44th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, just steps from Broadway’s Theatres and world-class shopping. Home to Dorothy Parker’s famous Round Table and birthplace of the New Yorker magazine, the Algonquin Hotel is highly regarded by travelers the world over. The recent $4.5 million renovation effort focused on refreshing the hotel lobby, upgrading all guest rooms, laying new guestroom carpet and introducing new bedding to the 174-guestroom hotel ” creating a new era of elegance at the historically significant hotel. The hotel’s popular Oak Room, which has showcased musical talents such as Harry Connick, Jr., Andrea Marcovicci, Diana Krall and Peter Cincotti, serves dinner and offers cabaret performances Tuesday through Saturday. The legendary Algonquin Round Table of the 1920s is the inspiration for the current Round Table Room serving traditional American cuisine breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Blue Bar and Lobby also serve cocktails and other beverages throughout the day. The hotel features a fully-equipped fitness center and five meeting and function rooms, which can accommodate groups from 10 to 175. www.algonquinhotel.com