Huey P. Back on the Move in Downtown Baton Rouge

In downtown Baton Rouge, Hotel Indigo has begun offering new amenity that is receiving rave reviews from regular guests: a hound to take out on the town. This past December, Hotel Indigo adopted a three-year-old terrier mix, who serves as its pet ambassador.

Just like his namesake, Huey came from humble beginnings. A month after being plucked from the streets of Bayou Goula by Iberville Parish Animal Control, the little guy came to the attention of LSU School of Veterinary Medicine staff.

With its pet-friendly accommodations, Hotel Indigo had developed a relationship with the SVM as welcoming place for its out-of-town clients and pet patients to stay. “We have wanted to rescue a dog for quite some time,” says hotel general manager Francis Grayson. “It was great to work with LSU to make sure we adopted a dog who had the right temperament for living in a hotel and being around new people all the time.”

Once they found the right dog, choosing a name was a no-brainer. “Hotel Indigo works hard to be part of the community and to reflect its surroundings,” Grayson added. “It’s appropriate to name our pooch after the late governor Huey P. Long, since he is so engrained in the history of Baton Rouge.”

Studies demonstrate pets in the workplace can lower stress, boost morale and create a bond between coworkers. So, it no surprise Grayson reports, “It’s hard not to smile with Huey around. We’re happy that our team is enjoying him and even more excited that our guests have taken to him.” In fact, pet-loving guests are encouraged to check Huey out—literally. With a simple signature on the dog walking register, they can tour the town with a local celebrity.

Follow in Hotel Indigo’s footsteps and adopt your own sweet furry friend from Yelp.