Hertz Launches Gold Squad with Dogs to Comfort Travelers NOW
BREAKING: Hertz has just announced the launch of its innovative “Gold Squad” program, featuring trained Golden Retriever service dogs at select U.S. airports to provide comfort to travelers. This initiative aims to enhance the travel experience while promoting Hertz’s Gold Plus Rewards program, which offers quicker rentals and exclusive pricing.
The Gold Squad officially debuted on August 18, 2023, at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, where the dogs engaged with weary passengers from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with travelers flocking to meet these friendly canines during peak travel hours. Hertz spokesperson Lauren Luster confirmed, “It was a huge hit, and so we want to bring it to other airports.”
Hertz is taking a page from successful marketing strategies, similar to Subaru’s use of dogs in their advertising. The Gold Squad will consist of about 20 Golden Retrievers from local service dog organizations, expertly trained to provide emotional support. The initiative not only aims to brighten travelers’ days but also encourages participation in the Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program.
Travelers can now vote for the next airport destination for the Gold Squad via Hertz’s Instagram post, with options including Chicago, San Diego, or Atlanta to conclude this year’s appearances. The program hopes to expand further in 2024, potentially reaching Detroit Metro Airport and other major locations.
The emotional impact of this initiative cannot be overstated. Many travelers find the final leg of their journey exhausting, and the presence of these friendly dogs can provide a much-needed lift. Hertz Vice President of Operations Excellence, Kari Birdsall, emphasized this point, stating, “We want to ease the travel experience, especially during peak travel.”
The program has already garnered significant attention, with posts featuring the Gold Squad amassing over 88 million views across platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and 9.9 million views on TikTok. This substantial engagement indicates that the initiative resonates well with the public, making it a trending topic among travelers and pet lovers alike.
Each dog in the Gold Squad has its unique personality. For example, one dog named Sammy enjoys swimming and making her owner’s rental experience more affordable with members-only rates. Another, Duke, is known for his love of tennis balls, while Mulligan is a peanut butter enthusiast who enjoys the convenience of skipping the counter thanks to Gold Plus Rewards.
Hertz assures that all dogs will be stationed in open areas of the rental car zones, allowing travelers to choose their level of interaction. The dogs will be accompanied by trained handlers to ensure safety and comfort for all passengers, including those who may have allergies.
In addition to the canine companionship, Hertz will provide fun giveaways such as Gold Squad branded stress balls, snacks, and phone chargers, further enhancing the travel experience.
This innovative program not only showcases Hertz’s commitment to customer satisfaction but also highlights the growing trend of integrating pet therapy into public spaces. As travelers gear up for the busy fall season, the Gold Squad is poised to make a memorable impact.
Stay tuned for updates on the Gold Squad’s next adventure and how you can get involved in shaping their journey.
