Vacations are made more fun and exciting when you have a dog around. So if you’re planning your next adventure, having a four-legged companion is the best way to go! And even though you’re not a pet owner, the Equinox Golf Resort & Spa located in Manchester Village, Vermont has got you covered! Guests who love the outdoors can partake and enjoy a hike, escorted by none other than the resort’s Chief Happiness Officer (CHO)—a five-year-old Golden Retriever named Cooper!
He officially took the job in the fall of 2020. And according to the resort, he was given the position because he makes people happy!
Jay Sheldon, the resort’s General Manager, is Cooper’s owner. His adorable pet is the lead for the “Golden Hikes” for resort guests during the warmer season. While the service is complimentary for guests, a reservation is recommended for the activity, especially during the wake of COVID-19. Guests are entitled to a beautiful day outside, plus they get to pet darling Cooper—for free!
In a statement, Sheldon said that many people are finding ways to lift themselves, especially during a challenging time like this. And while being outdoors and exploring exciting destinations are helpful, the team behind The Equinox wishes to include joy in their services. This is the reason why they have specifically enlisted Cooper as their Chief Happiness Officer.
He also personally vouched for the happiness that Cooper was able to bring him through the five years that they have been together. In addition to this, he can also attest to the smiles he has drawn on their guests’ faces every time Cooper greets them. The General Manager and proud pet owner also said that their favorite thing to do is immersing themselves amidst their Manchester resort nature. In turn, they wish to share that experience with their guests—so the concept of their Golden Hikes was conceived.
Guests are also encouraged to bring their furry pals along because Cooper is excellent at making new friends! Equinox is known for being pet-friendly, regardless if guests wish to participate in their weekly hikes. The Golden Hikes are scheduled every Saturday morning to explore the 914-acre land surrounding The Equinox. And fear not—even though the trek lasts for two hours, Cooper is very familiar with the trail that he can complete it even when unleashed!
Aside from this, Cooper also makes himself available for all the guests in the facility. He frequently roams the grounds with Sheldon and conducts meet-and-greet check-ins every Friday between 4 pm to 5 pm. You can count on him to welcome their guests as they enjoy a glass of wine!
Sign me up for the next Golden Hike then, so I could personally meet this dashing hound!
Source: Equinox Cooper / Instagram
