Tampa Bay, Florida, is rolling out a new summer campaign that puts canine companions front and center, catering to the growing trend of pet travel across the United States. The “Doggone Summer” initiative, an extension of the destination’s annual summer promotion, invites families to include their 4-legged friends in their vacation plans. This campaign positions Tampa Bay as a premier destination for dog-friendly travel, showcasing many accommodations, attractions and outdoor experiences throughout Hillsborough County.
Dog Days of Summer in Tampa Bay
The Tampa Bay area offers numerous activities for dogs and their human counterparts. Visitors can enjoy splashing in the Hillsborough River, taking leisurely walks along the Tampa Riverwalk or relaxing on dog-friendly patios. These experiences are designed to everyone in the family. FKQ Advertising + Marketing, the creative force behind the campaign, has developed upbeat messaging such as “Time to unleash the fun” and “Time to chase new adventures.”
To bring this initiative to life, Visit Tampa Bay is partnering with popular dog influencers who will document their “paws-cation” experiences. The destination hopes to reach pet owners in key drive markets, including Atlanta, Orlando and Miami, using engaging social media content and strategic paid amplification. These regions have seen a significant increase in road trips with pets, making them prime targets for the campaign.
Visit Tampa Bay is also expanding its reach through a collaboration with Amazon. This partnership will connect with pet parents across various shopping and streaming platforms. A series of interactive audio ads, some featuring dog-friendly sound effects, will be broadcast on Amazon Music across Alexa, mobile and desktop devices. The campaign will also capitalize on key retail moments such as Pet Day in May and Prime Day in July to further increase visibility.
The “Doggone Summer” campaign aligns with the rising trend of pet-inclusive travel. According to recent industry data, over 65 percent of U.S. households own a pet, with dogs being the most common. Furthermore, many pet owners consider their furry companions when making travel plans, often seeking out destinations that cater to human and canine needs.
Tampa Bay also boasts an extensive network of parks and green spaces, perfect for daily walks and playtime. The area boasts over 70 miles of trails and numerous dog parks where pets can socialize and exercise off-leash. Additionally, several nearby beaches allow dogs, providing opportunities for seaside adventures.
For more information, visit tampalovespups.com.
