While our pets provide plenty of love and affection, they do not entirely fill the void of social interaction. Connecting with other pet owners is a great way to meet people with whom you have something fundamental in common. If you are looking for ways to connect with other pet owners in this area, be sure to try these tactics: 

1. Go to the Dog Park

The dog park is one of the best resources for both pets and their people. Not only do your dogs get the chance to spend time with other pups, but there is also ample opportunity for you to stand around and talk to people next to you. Whether you comment on a funny thing your dog just did or start a conversation about someone else’s dog, your pets are an instant icebreaker. If you are a little shy, the dog park is an easy place to visit regularly to make you feel comfortable before you try to talk to someone else.

2. Check Out a Pet-Friendly Restaurant

We’re lucky to live in a place with a wide variety of pet-friendly restaurants and breweries. If you are looking to expand your social circle, these are the perfect spots to go with your dog. With a comfortable, laid back environment, you and your pet will feel better about socializing with other patrons. Order a beer or some food and talk to the fellow pet owners who are also out and about with their furry friends. You can fill your stomach and your soul in one trip.

3. Volunteer at Animal Shelters

Why not turn your desire to meet other animal lovers into a way to give back to the animals you love so much? Volunteering at animal shelters is a great way to do something good for local animals while expanding your social circle. Meeting other volunteers in an animal shelter lets you know that you automatically have something strong in common.

4. Go to a Cat Cafe

If you are more of a cat person, a cat cafe is a great spot to play with cats while meeting other feline fans. Whether you go for some of their coveted activities or just to spend time with the cats, this is a great spot to bond with fellow cat lovers.

5. Join a Training Class

Training classes offer the benefit of training your pet while meeting other pet owners in similar situations. When you meet people in classes like this, you not only both own pets, but you are both also working through the process of training. You can make a new friend, and you can also have someone to help you through the process of training. And maybe with whom to commiserate over a glass of wine.

If you’re looking to connect with other pet owners in your area, use our five methods for meeting great pet-loving folks in your community. 

At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services, we want to help you through every stage of pet ownership. From the first day with your new pet to the golden years, we are here for you. Call (248) 334-6877 to learn more about our specialty veterinary and emergency services.