NEWS RELEASE
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Visit Kingsport & Downtown Kingsport Association launch “Dog Approved Kingsport” campaign
Kingsport, Tenn. – Visit Kingsport and Downtown Kingsport Association are excited to announce the launch of Dog Approved Kingsport. The campaign rolls out on National Dog Day (August 26) and is a year-round effort.
Dog Approved Kingsport aims to promote pet-friendly locations around the city. The initiative celebrates Kingsport as a dog-friendly destination, while highlighting local businesses, parks, restaurants and events that are welcoming to our furry friends.
“Kingsport has always been known for its welcoming spirit, and Dog Approved Kingsport is an extension of that hospitality,” says Chelsea Ketron, Director of Marketing for Visit Kingsport. “By highlighting our dog-friendly businesses and outdoor spaces, we’re making it easier for visitors to enjoy all that Kingsport has to offer, together with their pets.”
Kingsport residents and visitors are encouraged to explore Kingsport with their pets and support our local dog-approved businesses. Look for the new Dog Approved KPT decals in store windows and use the hashtag #DOGSLOVEKPT. Participating businesses include a number of restaurants with outdoor seating areas, breweries, trails, parks, shops and dog-friendly lodging. Some dog-friendly locations include: MeadowView Marriott, Rural King, Hudson’s General Store, Chef’s Pizzeria, 6ix Grist & Grind Brewhouse and the I-26 Welcome Center Dog Park. To view the full directories of dog-friendly locations, visit visitkingsport.com/pets or downtownkingsport.org/dog-approved.
“Downtown Kingsport recognizes that our four-legged friends are part of the family,” says Robin Cleary, Downtown Kingsport Association’s Executive Director. “The addition of the Dog Approved section on our website offers a fun and convenient way for pet owners to discover dog-friendly businesses and outdoor spaces throughout the downtown district. We’re proud to support a community where everyone – paws included – feels welcome.”
Becoming a dog-friendly city creates benefits for more than just our pets, it opens the door for growth in Kingsport and encourages people to get outdoors and spend more time with their animals. Dog Approved Kingsport looks forward to growing business participation, promoting responsible pet ownership, strengthening connection among residents and positioning the city as one of the region’s most pet-friendly destinations.
Dog Approved Kingsport was born from a project from the Leadership Kingsport Class of 2025. The class also developed the logo and branding for the initiative.
