Dog Lovers
Stuff has a story:
Dogs have long been labelled man’s best friend, but it appears that pet pooches are also helping us hook up with other humans.
Romantic or otherwise, relationships are being fused between those who frequent dog parks for more than just the fresh air and exercise.
Melbourne-based town planner Virginia Jackson says dog parks have become social networking hotbeds, bringing together people from all walks of life in a kind of informal social club.
She spent more than two months interviewing 150 Melbourne dog owners, quizzing them on the social dynamics of their local dog park.
Almost 95 per cent of respondents said their dogs were a conversation starter, while 38 per cent said they had developed friendships that were stronger than an acquaintance.
Having gone out with friends who have dogs, I absolutely agree it canbe a great way to meet people – you end up conversing with all the other owners as your respective dogs lick each other all over.
However what amused me was the photo with this story:
The caption is “BEST FRIENDS: Take your pooch out to improve your social life.”
In her case, I don’t think it is the fact she has a dog with her that improves her social life!
December 9th, 2009 at 7:15 pm
I’m not sure what you’re getting at, DPF?
Quite clearly she has her puppies hanging out, and they’re what would be attracting potential suitors, not the bedraggled fleabag she’s holding
December 9th, 2009 at 7:35 pm
Back in the days I would take my friends “cute” dog out for a walk, but what I’d do is go to a suitable part of town for a coffee and without doubt the “cute” would stop for that awwww moment.
Never got a relationship out of it, but nice times
December 9th, 2009 at 7:39 pm
I am a huge dog lover myself, and can totally relate to the “social connectivity” that comes with owning a dog.
My teenage son shares this understanding and offers to walk our dog regularly.
On an unrelated note – could someone please point this young lady to Kirkcaldies lingerie department for a properly fitting bra!!!
December 9th, 2009 at 7:40 pm
Michaels, I know exactly what you mean.
A freshly groomed Newfoundland is an almost sure way to meet people…lol.
December 9th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
Hmmm … that what happens when girls raid their younger sisters top drawer!
Edit: democracymum, you beat me to it.
December 9th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
I love dogs but couldn’t eat a whole one.
cats on the other hand…….
December 9th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
What IS she doing to that dog??????????????????
December 9th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
Stop it Don,
You know exactly what she is doing, the dog has separation anxiety.
And that Steve will cost you 50 demerits
December 9th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
I’m not surprised. People who have to pick up their dogs crap must share a special bond.
December 9th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
Dogs are a substitute for liquor in the middle of the day.
Any self respecting male or female knows that.
At the bar you say “What is that you’re drinking?” Or similar.
In the park you say “What breed of dog is that?” Or similar.
Doesn’t everyone over fifteen know this?
December 9th, 2009 at 9:42 pm
It looks like Obama and John Key have finally established a same trade deal. Their union is symbolised by a poodle in the form of a US ambassador. And now their mission is to conform all NZers to become same sex families with a poodle.
December 9th, 2009 at 11:08 pm
I prefer arranging my hair in an eccentric manner and throwing cats at all manner of socialists, but that’s just my thing.
ps : all cats are sedated by recordings of Phil Goff’s Parliamentary Questions before the throwing begins. Some have been known to surrender their 8 other lives before the recordings begin.
December 10th, 2009 at 6:38 am
Sadly, the only men in my dog park are gay. I apparently need to change neighbourhoods.
My dog does get a ridiculous amount of attention though.
xx K
December 10th, 2009 at 8:20 am
More info from the state the blindingly obvious file.
At lest these wasn’t the result of a multimillion dollar study.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:30 am
“take your pooch out to improve your social life” are you kidding. If I took my pooch’s to town there would be pandamonium, then probably a spell in a jail cell. Huntaways are not designed for the social scene.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:36 am
SSB – let your Huntaway loose in the debating chamber. Would give a whole new twist to sheepdog trials.. rounding up of MPs into pen. It would improve Parliament TVs ratings.
kiwigirl – Yes another park. For your dog’s sake.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:45 am
If we’re going to let canines loose in the chamber then I’m voting for 30 very angry rotties thanks.
Get that Brownlee bugger, plenty of meat on him! Run Parekura RUN!!!!!
Now thats pay for view.