Pipper, the traveling dog with over 70,000 followers on Instagram

Promoting key travel destinations for people traveling with their pets and raising awareness of the growing number of public and private resources that accept companion dogs. This is the mission of Pipper, the first tourist dog who, for a year, is touring the United States (until May 2019) visiting 50 iconic destinations in the country and sharing his experiences in tourist attractions, hotels, restaurants, and transport that are already 'dog friendly' on his blog and social media (@pipperontour). Pipper has already visited regions like New York, California, Texas, Florida, and more, covering over 15,000 miles on his journey. Currently, he is in Washington, D.C. Additionally, from January 23 to 26, he will participate in FITUR as an "ambassador" for the New York region.

Pipper's national tour is made possible by the support of the Foundation for Tourism and the Arts of New York; Amtrak; Bankia, the first 'dog friendly' bank in the U.S.; Bayer; the manufacturer of natural pet food Dingonatura; and Trixie, a European leader in pet accessories.

This unique adventure began in May in New York. During his journey, Pipper stars in photos and 'short films' at places that allow dogs, acting as a regular tourist: eating at a restaurant, enjoying tapas on a terrace, shopping at stores, traveling by train and bike... and visiting the main 'dog friendly' icons of each destination (from St. Patrick's Cathedral to the San Isidoro Museum in León -the Sistine Chapel of Romanesque architecture-, the Casa Batlló in Barcelona, etc.).

Pipper shares his videos through his YouTube channel and his page www.pipperontour.com, where he also narrates his experiences in each destination, providing practical information for those with dogs who want to travel with them. Furthermore, he features snapshots in iconic locations shared on his profiles on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (@pipperontour), where he already has nearly 50,000 followers.

Through these channels, users can participate by sharing tips on places where dogs are welcome (hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops, tourist attractions...) and inviting Pipper to visit them and film one of his videos.

The initiative is inspired by canine ambassadors from Japan, Florida, or London, but in this case, the uniqueness is that Pipper has the challenge of traveling around the entire country and showcasing it through 'shorts' featuring him, filmed exclusively in pet-friendly locations, such as trains, which he uses for travel along with a car and a bike.

It is estimated that there are around 4 million households in the U.S. where dogs (over 5 million) are considered part of the family. The pet census is growing (they are in 40% of households) due to the psychological and social benefits they provide, the increase in the longevity of the population, and the number of people living alone. Those who live with a dog also want to travel with them. This reality is reflected in the growing number of hotels, restaurants, transportation options, etc. that accept customers accompanied by their pets and even offer special attention to their four-legged guests (with water bowls, dog beds, appropriate food...).

In addition to promoting pet-friendly tourism in the second most visited country in the world, Pipper on Tour seeks to raise awareness about respect for animals and the role that dogs play in our society by assisting people in various fields and performing an important role in the integration of all types of communities, as well as contributing to the fight against animal abandonment and promoting responsible pet ownership.

After starting in New York and passing through various regions mentioned, the tour continues now through Washington, D.C., the state of Virginia... until visiting all states. During his journey, Pipper provides special coverage for the New York region acting as an "ambassador" for the area.