Good morning, Arlo, how are you?
Arlo is a 9-month-old from Tomahawk named after folk singer Arlo Guthrie. He’s also Wisconsin Public Service’s (WPS) new voice for safety as the company’s first-ever safe digging “ambassadog.”
WPS customers and dog lovers alike cast thousands of votes last month for the best canine in the company’s first safe digging photo contest. Arlo will now spend the next year starring in a social media campaign to remind everyone to call 811 at least three days before digging.
Arlo also will be featured on digital billboards across northeast and north central Wisconsin on National Safe Digging Day, Sunday, Aug. 11 (8/11).
Discovering a safe digging sensation
Arlo’s road to the title of top dog began this spring, when his soon-to-be owners were searching for a new dog after their previous one passed away. They initially didn’t want a puppy, but couldn’t get enough of Arlo’s unique coat and his personality. He reminded them of the narrator in the “The City of New Orleans,” so his owners named him after Guthrie, who popularized the song.
Arlo’s favorite activity is digging, especially when searching for toads in the garden at his home. His energetic nature also leads him into playing with other dogs or wrestling matches with pine branches. He’s got a soft side, too — his owners say he loves to snuggle and sleep on top of his family.
About 811
Digging can be dangerous if you don’t call 811 or go to diggershotline.com at least three days in advance. Whether you’re planting a garden or installing a fence, it’s important to have the location of underground utilities marked to keep yourself and your family safe. Contacting Diggers Hotline at least three days in advance by calling 811 or going to diggershotline.com is easy, it’s free and it’s the law.