hospitality

Baymont Seeks 'Buddy Of The Year'

Baymont by Wyndham is launching a nationwide search for its first canine ambassador. 

The “Baymont Buddy of the Year” will be featured in a pet-friendly digital marketing campaign.

The hotel brand, which has more than 500 locations across North America, is launching the effort in conjunction with National Pet Day, which is April 11.

The pup’s owner will receive $2,500 plus a weekend getaway for two and Wyndham Rewards Diamond level membership, which includes perks like free WiFi, early check-in, suite upgrades and rental car upgrades.

Baymont’s search comes amid a surge of dog adoptions in 2020. A recent poll by Rover, a network of five-star pet sitters and dog walkers, notes that nearly half of pet parents had recently acquired a new dog during the pandemic. 

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Another survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association found that roughly two-thirds of American families own a pet, which they spent $96 billion on in 2019, a figure that analysts say will only continue to grow.

Many consumers are eager to get back on the road this year, including lots of first-time dog owners, said David Unger, brand leader and vice president of operations, Baymont by Wyndham.

“For some, the idea of traveling with a new pet can be a bit daunting,” Unger says in a  release. 

The pet ambassador will help the brand show travelers that Baymont is ready to welcome the whole family, including dogs. The Baymont “Welcome Buddy” program provides a water bowl and dog treats upon arrival.

Pet owners can submit photos at www.baymontinns.com/buddy where they will be asked to write 250 words or less about why their pup is the ideal candidate to be the brand’s ambassador. 

Preference will be given to dogs who have been formally trained, with a track record of being able to play to the camera. The winning dog will receive a professional photo shoot later this year.

Submissions will be accepted through May 4. The winning candidate will be selected by June 1.

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