Pedigree Matches Kids’ Doodles To Lookalike Adoptable Dogs With New AI Tool

Image via Pedigree

Children can actually visualize a dog into reality, thanks to a new adoption drive powered by artificial intelligence… and doodles.

Launched by Pedigree and Adopt-a-Pet.com, Rescue Doodles connects families to their dream pets by pairing sketches with real-life, similar-looking adoptable dogs that are located at nearby shelters.

To start, US residents will first need to text “Doodle” to  717-670-6675 before sending in their sketch. The heartwarming campaign, created by advertising agency BBDO New York, will run until April 30.

Image via Pedigree / PR Newswire

According to a 2019 study quoted by Pedigree, 3.1 million dogs enter shelters in the US every year. The company is inviting kids to “take the reins in finding the perfect adoptable dog for the family” through the machine-learning tool and ultimately create more kindred connections.

"This program is unique because it takes a simple, everyday activity for children—doodling—and turns it into a fun way to add a new member to the family,” shares Jean-Paul Jansen, Vice President of Marketing for Mars Petcare North America. 

Upon being matched, families are urged to meet the dogs at the shelters to ensure they’re a good fit before adopting.

[via It’s Nice That, The Drum, The Stable, images via Pedigree]