If the upcoming election is causing you stress, Aloft Hotels might have the perfect solution. The hotel chain, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio, is partnering with animal shelters in cities like New York, Milwaukee, Austin, and Atlanta to host a unique event on November 5 called “Not Watch Pawties.” This event is designed to offer a stress-free escape from the political chaos by allowing guests to cuddle with puppies.
Aloft Hotels, known for being dog-friendly, announced in a press release that these events will bring in adorable puppies to provide comfort and a temporary break from the election frenzy. The goal is to give news-weary Americans a chance to relax on election night.
According to a recent APA study, nearly 69% of U.S. adults say the 2024 presidential election is a significant source of stress, up from 52% in 2016. Additionally, over 70% of adults are concerned that the election results could lead to violence, and nearly one-third have experienced tension with family members over political differences.
### Where Will the ‘Not Watch Pawties’ Take Place?
The events will be held on election night starting at 5 p.m. at the following Aloft locations:
– Aloft New York, Chelsea: 5 – 7 p.m.
– Aloft Atlanta at the Battery: 5 – 7 p.m.
– Aloft Orlando Downtown: 5 – 9 p.m.
– Aloft Austin Downtown: 5 – 7 p.m.
– Aloft Milwaukee Downtown: 5 – 7 p.m.
No registration or fees are required. Guests can simply show up and enjoy some furry companionship. Aloft will also provide complimentary puppy-themed snacks and drinks, such as a Puppucino and Chocolate Bark-tini.
### ‘No Better Way’ to Escape Election Day Stress
Brian Jaymont, an executive at Aloft Hotels, explained that the event is meant to help people de-stress during this tense time. “We hope this calming event and our Not Watch Pawties give people a chance to relax and reset, even if it’s only for 47 minutes,” Jaymont said. He added that cuddling local shelter dogs and enjoying puppy-themed refreshments is a great way to unwind after voting.
Scientific studies support the idea that dogs help reduce stress. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, petting a dog can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) while increasing oxytocin, the hormone associated with happiness and bonding.
### Partnering Animal Shelters
Aloft Hotels is teaming up with several animal shelters for this event, including:
– [Rescue City](https://www.rescuecity.nyc/) in New York City
– [Rescue Gang](https://www.rescuegang.org/) in Milwaukee
– [Pet Rescue by Judy](https://www.petrescuebyjudy.com/) in Orlando
### Can’t Attend? Stay ‘Pawsome’ Virtually
For those who can’t attend the in-person events, Aloft has created a 47-minute “Election Escape Meditation Video” featuring a dog leading viewers through a calming meditation. The video, in honor of the incoming 47th President, encourages viewers to “paws,” stretch, and stay “pawsome.”
You can watch the video [here](https://youtu.be/-pzJeHALszY).
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*Contributing: Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY*
*Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@gannett.com and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.*
Source: usatoday.com