Red Roof Tells Pet Owners to 'Stay' in Pet Month Initiative

Known for its #PetsStayFree policy, Red Roof, the pet-friendly economy lodging brand, is celebrating its 50th anniversary and National Pet Month through an integrated campaign that rewards pet parents by giving away 50+ free nights. The initiative, #PeopleStayFree, developed by Acadia features giveaways and promotions running on social media throughout the month of May.

#PeopleStayFree kicks off with a series of online videos that show pet owners trying to 'stay' as they are covered in peanut butter, dog treats and pet goodies while their dogs have free rein to do whatever they please. The humorous videos are running with paid media support on TikTok and Instagram. Anyone who comments on the posts is eligible for the first of the giveaways.

“Pet videos are some of the most popular social media content today and we thought we could create truly engaging content by turning the tables on Pets and their People with this campaign,” explained Paula Ersly, head of social strategy at Acadia. “‘Stay’ is something every dog owner says, but that dogs ignore. By having our people stay – both at the hotel and in these videos - we are celebrating that one-of-a-kind connection between dogs and their owners while showing that Red Roof truly honours that relationship.”

The Red Roof Luvs Pets’ doggie mascot 'Red Rufus' is also part of the campaign. He will be playfully fetching and trolling other pets and pet mascots on TikTok and offering free nights and prizes as opportunities arise.

In addition to the videos there will be influencer content to support #PeopleStayFree, including micro influencers and better-known influencers such as Sara Carson with The Super Collies from America’s Got Talent. 

“While we celebrate pets all year round, we thought it would be fun to celebrate Pet Parents by giving them the chance to stay for free,” explained Rosalyn Ransaw, digital marketing manager for Red Roof. “This campaign is our way of celebrating both our 50th anniversary and National Pet Month in a way that gives back to our guests.”

As part of the initiative, Red Roof has donated 250 free nights to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA®) in support of their critical relief work when deploying to communities impacted by disasters, and their other lifesaving efforts.