Introduction: Hi, I’m Melissa. I’m a former oncology nurse, travel writer, and creator of Pawtastic Stays. Alongside my psychiatric service dog, Archie, I share accessible travel, unique stays, and stories that remind people living with invisible disabilities that adventure is still possible.
You may have noticed that there’s almost always a golden retriever by my side. His name is Archie, and while he loves beach walks, cozy cabins, and exploring new places just as much as I do, he’s much more than my travel companion.
Archie is my psychiatric service dog.
For a long time, I wasn’t sure how much of my story I wanted to share publicly. My disability is invisible. Most people see beautiful destinations and a happy dog, but they don’t see the PTSD, the chronic migraines, or the challenges that once made leaving my home feel impossible.
I’ve realized that if sharing my journey helps even one person feel less alone—or gives someone hope that travel can still be part of their life—then it’s a story worth telling.
This is the story of how Archie changed my life, why Pawtastic Stays exists, and why our travels have become about so much more than finding dog-friendly places to stay.
While I was grieving the loss of my heart dog, something else happened that caught me completely by surprise. The trauma I had worked so hard to manage resurfaced, and I became agoraphobic. Leaving my home suddenly felt overwhelming. The thought of traveling—something that had once brought me so much joy—felt impossible.
I began working with a psychiatrist, and during one of our appointments she suggested something that would ultimately change my life: she recommended that I train Archie to become my psychiatric service dog.
At first, I wasn’t sure what that journey would look like. I simply knew I wanted my life back.
Today, Archie does far more than travel beside me. He retrieves my migraine medication when I need it, grounds me during panic attacks, and wakes me from nightmares. His presence gives me the confidence to step into places that once felt overwhelming.
Many people see a happy golden retriever by my side. What they don’t always see is that Archie represents independence, safety, and the ability to experience the world again.
He didn’t erase my disability. He helped me reclaim my life.
As you continue following along, I hope this website becomes more than a collection of hotel reviews and travel tips. My goal is to help people discover places that feel welcoming, peaceful, and accessible while reminding anyone living with an invisible disability that your world doesn’t have to get smaller.
Whether you’re here for travel inspiration, service dog education, or simply looking for hope, I’m so glad you’re here. I can’t wait to share this journey with you.
