A Holiday Inn Express in Virginia treated a young guest’s stuffed animal to a “vacation” after the toddler accidentally left it behind following his family’s stay.
It all started last week when a 4-year-old left his stuffed puppy at the Holiday Inn Express Richmond I-64 Short Pump Area hotel while his family was traveling out of town, IHG Hotels & Resorts told PEOPLE in a statement.
When the family noticed the toy was at the hotel, the boy’s dad contacted the company that owns the franchise, according to a post he shared on X Tuesday (formerly known as Twitter).
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Although Dad knew the Holiday Inn Express location would send him back to their family, he ended up getting some surprising news when he opened his email and learned that the stuffed animal had been treated to a “vacation.”
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The message even included pictures showing the toy at the front desk, enjoying snacks, napping and even getting some exercise “to make sure he’s strong and can get home faster.”
“We’re happy he’s headed home to you! It’s been a pleasure having him here!” it’s rumored, according to the dad’s post, which by Wednesday afternoon had received more than 82,000 likes and 8,000 reposts.
Seemingly impressed by the hotel’s attention to detail, the dad shared the story on social media.
“Help them get recognized for excellent customer service!” wrote dad under the username HappyCaptain.
A stuffed animal at the Holiday Inn Express Richmond I-64 Short Pump Area in Virginia.
Holiday Inn Express Richmond I-64 Short pump area
Michael, the boy’s father, tells PEOPLE that the gesture is “an incredible display of humanity.”
“He was very upset that it disappeared because it is one of his favorite toys,” she adds. “The message changed his perspective on the situation. He was so happy to see how much fun his snuggle dog was having and he wanted me to read it over and over for everyone to hear.'”
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A stuffed animal at the Holiday Inn Express Richmond I-64 Short Pump Area in Virginia.
Holiday Inn Express Richmond I-64 Short pump area
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Katia Diaz, general manager of the Holiday Inn Express Richmond I-64 Short Pump Area, tells PEOPLE that taking care of their guests continues “after they check out.”
“Our team sprung into action when we learned that a toy puppy was missing on the property,” says Diaz. “We found the lost stuffed animal and arranged for it to be returned.”
Diaz adds, “To help their son feel better without his friend, we had a little fun and shared photos of the toy pup’s adventure during his time with us.”
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Source: HIS Education