It’s a ‘ruff’ job, but some pooch has to do it…
VisitScotland launches search for ‘Ambassadog’
They have a ‘nose’ for the best food and drink, a ‘tail’ for adventure and sometimes a happy bark is the only review needed for beaches and walking trails across the land.
Now VisitScotland, working in partnership with search and recruitment agency Denholm Associates, is setting out to fill the role of International Canine Ambassador or Ambassadog, to set their ‘paw of approval’ on journeys across Scotland.
From the Highlands and Lowlands, to cities and towns and from bothies to pubs, the four-legged friend will follow in his or her owner’s footsteps to take in everything Scotland has to offer – all to be documented on social media.
The V.I.D. (or ‘very important dog’) may be called upon to attend star-studded events and photocalls, launches and even meet some famous faces along the way. They will be able to talk (or bark!) about Scotland to the world on a dedicated ‘blog’ on www.visitscotland.com highlighting their ongoing adventures and escapades and capturing the real spirit of the country.
Any dog living in Scotland is eligible to apply for the job and the chosen pooch will be required to travel around the country easily with his/her owner. The dog will receive a special prize for its owner – an exclusive, inspirational and unique dog-friendly holiday in Scotland in 2016*.
To apply, dogs should get their owners to go to www.denholmassociates.com (from 8am today 9 March) to complete the application process. They will be asked to provide, in no more than 500 words, a reason why their dog would make the best ‘Ambassadog’ of Scotland. This should include references to the dog’s personality, where they have travelled to in Scotland and any special talents they may have! Six dogs will be shortlisted to attend an interview event this spring.
Helen Campbell, Head of Global Brand and Marketing Communications at VisitScotland said:
“We are very excited to begin our search for an Ambassadog for VisitScotland. We are looking for an outgoing, sociable pooch who is able to capture the spirit of Scotland through their adventures and share them to inspire the world to visit.
“Scotland is the perfect destination for going on holiday, whether with a dog or not. You can explore ancient forests and shaded glens, take a walk along an award-winning beach and discover fascinating history in castles. We can’t wait to meet our new furry advocate and we hope lots of fabulous dogs and their owners apply.”
Nicki Denholm, CEO of Denholm Associates, said:
“Denholm Associates attracts top talent from CEOs for global brands to junior positions in the creative sector to Ambassadogs. All of these top dogs have one thing in common – they are the very best at what they do.
“We are seeking a dog who loves Scotland as much as we do. Sniffing must be in your DNA. The successful candidog will have good banter, unwavering enthusiasm and relish the opportunity to tour the country. Good manners are a bonus.”
The search for a Scottish Ambassadog is part of the national tourism organisation’s new Spirit of Scotland campaign, launched in February 2016. The global campaign is built on extensive research which shows that people think Scotland has a unique spirit– whether it’s the magic of the landscapes or the warmth of the people. Everyone who has shared their #ScotSpirit will become part of a special social movement. To find our more, visit www.visitscotland.com/scotspirit
VisitScotland begins the search for its new Scottish Ambassadog from 8am today (Wednesday, 9 March). This search continues for four weeks and a shortlist of dogs will be announced at the end of April. For more information, or to be involved, visit www.denholmassociates.com
Please note Terms and Conditions
*Terms and Conditions for the submitting entries to the Ambassadog campaign:
• The Ambassadog search is open to all dogs from all regions of Scotland.
• Any dogs considered must currently reside in Scotland.
• Six dogs and their owners shortlisted for the ambassadog ‘job’ will be invited to attend an interview in Edinburgh in late April/ early May. Attendance at this is vital to be considered for the ambassadog role. Travel expenses for the dog and owner will be covered if the dog and owner live outside of Edinburgh for the cheapest transportation option available. Accommodation can be provided if travel takes longer than three hours each way to Edinburgh.
• The chosen Ambassadog and owner will have a holiday paid and arranged for them to a destination in Scotland (negotiated through the dog owner and VisitScotland) in 2016. No cash alternative may be given. This will be for a maximum of three nights and at a destination agreed between VisitScotland and the dog’s owner.
• The dog owner will be expected to share their travels and adventures in Scotland with their dog on social media (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram) throughout 2016. This account will be managed and updated by the dog’s owner, with some input by VisitScotland.
• The dog owner must be happy to be involved in PR opportunities for VisitScotland campaign throughout 2016. This could include travel outside of Scotland. Examples of PR opportunities including being interviewed by a writer for a magazine, or appearing on live TV for an interview. Travel expenses will be covered for these kinds of opportunities
