Waukegan — North Shore Gas today unveiled Teddy, a mixed-breed rescue pup from Grayslake, as its new safe digging “ambassadog.” Teddy’s new job title was announced as the pup stood proudly before cameras.
Teddy digs joyfully and is in tip-top shape. She has an intense cardio routine that includes 5 to 10 miles of walking per week in a local forest preserve. She also has Southern charm. She came to Chicago’s northern suburbs via Louisiana, where she was living on the streets before being adopted. Teddy’s family says she’s about 2 years old. Apart from digging and long walks, Teddy likes pup cups and doing zoomies in the snow and sand.
Teddy became the safe digging ambassadog after entering the North Shore Gas “Doggone it!” contest. More than 140 dogs entered the contest, thousands of votes were cast, and Teddy’s trustworthy face made her the top dog. For the next year, Teddy will be featured in North Shore Gas promotional campaigns to raise awareness about safe digging and the importance of dialing 811 at least 72 hours before starting any digging project.
About 811 Day and safe digging
Teddy’s big win was announced today because it’s National 811 Day (8/11), a day to elevate awareness about the need for people in the northern suburbs to call 811 at least three days before starting any outdoor digging project. Digging without knowing where utility lines (e.g., natural gas, electric, water, sewer, communications) are located can lead to line strikes, serious injury and property damage. When people in the northern suburbs call 811 at least 72 hours in advance, expert technicians will come to their properties, at no charge, and mark the spots where underground utility lines are located.
Calling 811 is easy, it’s free, and it’s the law. Go to the North Shore Gas website for more information about 811 and safe digging practices.