It may look like the Halifax County Convention and Visitors Bureau has gone to the dogs but there’s a reason behind it — to drive tourism.

The plan for a dog run beside the building on Premier Boulevard became a hit with travelers before the official opening today, right when signs advertising the feature went up on Interstate 95, said Lori Medlin, president and CEO of the bureau.

“The number one thing is people will travel with their pets,” she said, before a leash-cutting ceremony that replaced the traditional ribbon-cutting rite. “We decided to a do a dog run.”

Michael Dunlow leased the bureau the land, which is fenced in and has gated areas for large and small dogs. It also has a water spigot with bowls and will be open from sunrise to sunset.

Axel plays with Medlin's dog, Roxy.

The goal to having a dog run is greater than just giving motorists a place to exercise their pets after a long journey. “We want people to come in the visitors center. We have dog treats in there. We’re officially a pet destination.”

The requirements are simple, Medlin said. Guests are asked to clean up. Other than that, Medlin asks that people come and peruse the many brochures that are in the building.

Three picnic tables are set up around the run, which also features the latest fish in the Roanoke Valley Rocks campaign, a fish designed to look like a dog holding a catfish in its mouth. Virginia artist Leary Davis painted the fish.

The leash-cutting ceremony.

Gene Minton, chair of the bureau’s board, said, “A lot more people are traveling with their dogs. I was out here yesterday and a lady with two dogs was out here. She was excited it was here.”

Roanoke Rapids Parks and Recreation Director John Simeon was helping the bureau before the leash-cutting ceremony. He brought his Saint Bernard, Axel. “It gives people the opportunity to bring their dogs out whether they’re traveling locally or traveling I-95.”