Move over, staycation: Bonding over malling and 'pet-cation'
MANILA, Philippines — For pet lovers, it isn’t easy to leave their beloved fur babies behind to go on a hotel staycation even if it means a much-needed rest and pampering. After all, they consider their fur babies as part of the family, and family stays and enjoys together.
Now, leaving furry members of the family behind is no longer an option when planning a family rest and recreation weekend, with hotels such as Eastwood Richmonde Hotel starting to offer pet-cations.
The hotel strengthens its commitment to pet-friendly hospitality through a new partnership with Barkhaus, which is Eastwood City’s premier one-stop pet care destination. Located on the fourth floor of the mall, which is just a short walk from the hotel, Barkhaus complements the hotel's Furtastic Pet-cation Package by offering guests exclusive privileges designed to make every stay more rewarding. While guests relax and unwind, their four-legged companions also get to enjoy exclusive perks, activities, and wellness services designed especially for them.
The hotel offers more than just accommodations with its new pet-cation offering. Guests and their pets can also explore open-air walkways, dine at pet-friendly establishments, shop for pet essentials, and enjoy quality bonding moments without leaving the community. The hotel's pet-friendly suites and dedicated al fresco dining area at Eastwood Café+Bar further create an environment where pets are genuinely welcomed and not simply accommodated.
In addition, guests who book the Furtastic Pet-cation Package will receive exclusive Barkhaus vouchers with special discounts on grooming services, daycare, playpark access, BarkStudio self-shoot sessions, Barkday celebration packages, and Barkhaus hotel bookings when reserved for the same dates as their stay. These exclusive privileges allow furry guests to enjoy a vacation of their own, giving pet parents the opportunity to create a more complete getaway where every member of the family gets to share in the experience.
The Barkhaus partnership is available until March 15, 2027.
Annual pet blessing draws over 800 pets
Over 800 pets and their families gathered at Eastwood City for its 22nd Annual Pet Blessing, transforming the open park into a lively celebration of pets, responsible ownership, and animal welfare.
This year’s Pawlytale Castle featured pets of all shapes and sizes, from Aspins, Puspins and other dogs and cats to rabbits, reptiles, and other animal companions, arriving in crowns, capes, tiaras, and elaborate costumes for an afternoon of activities.
At the heart of the celebration was the traditional Pet Blessing, held in observance of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals, and World Animal Day. Pets received their blessing alongside their families, continuing an annual gathering that dates back to 2004.
Beyond the parade, pets and their owners took part in Enchanted Sit and Stay, interactive games, treats, and other activities throughout the open park. At the Klick Studios booth, guests could also take home live “pawtraits” of their animal companions.
Animal welfare took a more meaningful role through Tales of Pawlytale, presented with the Animal Kingdom Foundation, which shared the stories of rescued animals while highlighting responsible pet ownership, proper animal care, and the importance of giving rescued animals a second chance.
The afternoon culminated in the coronation of the Pawlytale King and Queen, along with special recognitions for Best Costume, Best Bandana, and the Dogaholics’ Choice Award.
Eastwood City has championed pet-friendly mall experiences since 2004, when it was recognized as the country’s first pet-friendly mall and introduced its first pet blessing.
RELATED: Stop Rabies expands to Siargao, strengthening community partnerships for rabies prevention
