SARASOTA, Fla. (SNN) — When you think of an ATM, you probably think of cash, but one bank in Sarasota is catering to customers who prefer biscuits over bills.
TD Bank on Clark Road has unveiled the city’s first-ever “Dog ATM,” following last year’s successful debut in Philadelphia and a new installation just last week in Coral Gables. The interactive machine gives dogs a chance to make their own kind of withdrawal — a free treat.
Here’s how it works: the ATM features a puppy paw mat equipped with a motion sensor that automatically dispenses dog biscuits. It even includes dog-friendly audio that “talks” to pups, creating an experience designed for wagging tails and smiling owners.
“We chose this location because we have a heavier foot traffic here,” said Boris Ayala, TD Bank store manager. “We have a lot of K-9 people and their pets going to the school, and now they’ll have the opportunity to have a self-service ATM.”
While it looks like a typical ATM, this one trades cash for kibble — complete with a bone and hydrant motif that plays into TD Bank’s “Unexpectedly Human” approach to customer experience.
“We would love for one of the dogs to open an account with us,” Ayala joked. “But with the owners being part of the TD family, we’re very happy. Any dog is welcome in our premises.”
The Dog ATM is part of TD Bank’s broader effort to create fun, community-driven spaces at its locations. It’s the first of its kind in Sarasota and one of 14 new Dog ATMs being rolled out this year along TD’s Maine-to-Florida footprint.
TD Bank plans to open additional Dog ATMs in the coming months, with the next one debuting in Coral Gables.
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