Dog Care
Dog is man’s best friend, we’ve been told. “My dog is a member of the family,” we tell each other. Yet the book “The Truth about Dogs” points out another side of our canine friends: dogs steal the food off our plates, take the best spot on the couch, and routinely destroy our property. Just who is this dog creature, anyway? Perhaps only you, in partnership with your dog, can determine that. But this guide can surely help you find the Web’s best resources for care of this mysteriously lovable pet.
Expand All Guide SectionsDog Ownership
Adding a dog to your family is a big step—and a bigger commitment than most people realize. Some dogs live to be 10 to 15 years old. Are you ready to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love for the lifetime of the dog? This section of the guide can give you and your family a clear picture of what it’s like to care for a canine companion.
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- Don’t forget to consider the significant cost of owning a dog: food, toys, medical care, grooming, collars, crates—it all adds up. Take a look at this chart on Petfinder.com for the estimated yearly cost of owning a small, medium, or large dog.
- If you’d like to adopt a dog but are worried about leaving the dog alone for long stretches due to work or travel commitments, never fear: dog walkers, doggie day care, and dog boarding kennels come to the rescue. These are covered later in the “How do I care for my dog?” section of the guide.
- Established in 1954, the Humane Society of the United States is the largest animal protection organization in the United States. It’s a trusted source of information with an extensive, user-friendly Web site full of advice for the new and experienced dog owner. For that reason, the Humane Society’s site is mentioned several times throughout this guide.
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For a general introduction to dog ownership…
Hornell Animal Shelter
has a quick, eight-question quiz that can help you determine if you’re ready to adopt a dog. Issues such as your home environment, how often you travel, and expectations for the future are all considered.
The American Kennel Club
(AKC) emphasizes that dog ownership is not only a huge responsibility, it’s also a privilege. Beyond the basics of food and shelter, the AKC offers advice on ways to be the best dog owner you can be. Use the linked headings to skip to topics of interest like “Bring Your Dog Home,” “Keep Your Dog Healthy,” and “Be a Friend.”
The American Veterinary Medical Association
has an electronic brochure on selecting a dog that introduces the special needs of dogs and the lifestyle considerations every prospective dog owner should take into account. Don’t miss the very comprehensive “What must you do to prepare for your dog?” section near the bottom.
For information on allergies and other health concerns …
The Partnership for Animal Welfare
(PAW) offers basic facts about pet allergies and coping strategies for people who wish to have a pet despite their allergies. Get tips on how to properly handle and groom your dog, clean your house, and control environmental factors. The site also offers other strategies for minimizing allergic reactions, recent findings in animal allergy research, and suggestions of things to consider before you get a pet.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s
“Diseases from Dogs” article begins by pointing out that owning or petting a dog probably won’t get you sick. However, dogs can harbor germs and parasites, and some people are at greater risk of contracting diseases from dogs than others. Use the “Special advice” link in the text to learn who is at risk and how they can protect themselves, or browse the list of dog-related diseases for more information on each disease and how you can minimize your risk.
Choosing a Dog
Once you’ve determined you’re ready for a dog, the fun part comes: what kind of pooch is best for you? Whatever form your dream dog takes, this section can help you find the best fit for your lifestyle, pointing you to sites with advice on where to adopt, information on different breeds and mixes, the lowdown on puppies vs. adult dogs, and how to spot “the one” that’s right for you.
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- Whether you want a purebred dog or a mixed breed, a puppy or a senior dog, consider adopting from a shelter. Not only will you be helping a homeless dog in need, you’ll also have your pick of a variety of great dogs. Read on in this section for information on adopting dogs from shelters, humane societies, and rescue groups.
- Be aware that some dogs may be stressed or depressed in the shelter environment, and thus might not appear so eager or friendly. Most shelters have a playroom or “get-acquainted” area where you can spend some one-on-one time with your prospective companion and get a feel for the dog’s true personality.
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For help starting your search …
The American Pet Association
can help you decide between purebred and mixed-breed dogs. The advantages and disadvantages of each are presented clearly and succinctly.
St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center
is a great place to begin once you’ve decided you’re ready for a dog (although the site also devotes a lot of attention to helping you decide if you are ready, too). Scroll down to “Starting Your Search” for advice on factors such as age and breed. Don’t miss the “Picking A Winner!” section for valuable advice on how to choose a dog or puppy that is social, affectionate, and well adjusted.
For help selecting a dog breed …
Iams
’s “Dog Breed Selector” is an excellent, interactive tool to help you identify the perfect pooch. Selection criteria include the size, coat, and look of the dog; the amount of training, exercise, and grooming you plan to lavish on your dog; and doggie personality traits. Answer the questions to find your best fit or simply browse the alphabetical list of dogs in the “Dog Breed Guide” for the history, description, personality, behavior, and grooming needs of each breed.
The Dog Owner’s Guide
addresses dogs living in apartments and asks if the domestic dog can be content in such a setting. Although the article focuses on a program in San Francisco, a majority of the information will be relevant to apartment dwellers anywhere. Of particular interest are the “Dogs that do well in the city” and “Dogs that do poorly in the city” sections—look to these for information on breeds that are typically low energy, high energy, noisy, or prone to guarding.
To decide between a puppy and an older dog …
Growing Up With Pets
’s article “Choosing Between an Adult Dog and a Puppy” offers a list of questions to keep in mind as you think about adopting. Use the links on the left for more specific information on adults and puppies. Growing Up With Pets is an educational site of Novartis Animal Health, manufacturers of a parasite product for dogs.
The Senior Dogs Project
was created to promote the adoption and special care of older dogs, and it uses its Web site to document the strong bonds that exist between owners and their mature canine companions. Use the “Top Ten Reasons” link for a quick overview of the benefits of adopting adult dogs and visit “Before you adopt” for answers to some of the questions or concerns you may have.
To find a dog, shelter, or breeder …
Petfinder.com
is the most extensive searchable database of adoptable pets online. Use the search box on the left of the homepage to find a dog or search under “Classified Ads” for adoptable dogs that aren’t in shelters. Don’t miss the site’s insightful article on how to evaluate not only shelter dogs but the animal shelters themselves.
The Humane Society of the United States
offers tips on how to identify a good dog breeder. Be sure to download the PDF checklist for a list of specifics that you can take with you when you meet the breeder.
The American Kennel Club
goes into great detail on what to look out for when buying a puppy. The article offers tips for finding a reputable breeder and recommends only buying dogs that are AKC registered. Although the AKC does not certify or recommend specific breeders, it does offer resources to locate breeders through local AKC Parent Clubs and it can connect you with purebred rescue groups. AKC, in conjunction with the Better Business Bureau, also warns buyers to be wary of puppy scams.
Caring for a Dog
There’s a lot that goes into the day-to-day care of a dog, like establishing a daily routine as well as training and dealing with problematic behavior. If your dog is an escape artist, you’ll want to have a plan in place should it wander off. And what about dog service providers? Whether choosing a groomer, a dog walker, or a doggie day care center, you’ll want to find the best match for your dog—and for your wallet. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the local laws pertaining to dogs in your area. Use this section for Web sites that can help you through all your dog care needs.
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- To find dog services in your area, get referrals from your vet and people you trust. If you’re still at a loss, try an online directory like YellowPages.com or type what you’re looking for into your favorite search engine (for example, if you’re looking for a dog walker in Toledo, try searching for “dog walker, Toledo, Ohio”). Once you’ve gathered a few names, check them out on the Better Business Bureau’s Web site in addition to using the sites we recommend below to help you evaluate canine services and find the best of the bunch.
- If your dog should wander off, use the power of the Internet to launch an online search party. Sites like PETS 911, Petfinder.com, and Craigslist all have message boards or classified areas where you can post a “missing dog” notice and search through “found dog” postings.
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For help with those first few days in the new home …
The Humane Society of the United States
offers an article called “Bringing Your New Dog Home” that explains how to prepare your furry friend for its new home. Get tips on choosing supplies and establishing house rules that can help to ease the transition.
The American Animal Hospital Association
offers tips on making your home a safe, comfortable place for your pet. Start with the “Ten Tips for a Poison-Safe Household” link to learn about the common household items, plants, and foods that are toxic to dogs. You’ll also find plenty of tips on settling in and building that all-important bond with your new family member.
For general dog care information …
The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
has an excellent primer on caring for a canine. Whether you’re new to dog ownership or an old hand, you’ll find everything you need to get started, including information on feeding, housing, exercise, licensing, training, and much more.
To care for an older dog …
Petfinder.com
gets into the nitty gritty of caring for a companion animal in its golden years. Learn about the health problems and challenges of older pets and how to tailor their care routine to meet their special needs.
For help with behavior problems …
Animal Planet
gets down to business on bad behavior in dogs. Scroll down to the “More Information” box for a list of annoying habits your canine friend might have, like digging, barking, begging for food, or playing escape artist.
Cesar Millan
is better known as the “Dog Whisperer” on the National Geographic Channel, and his site is a must-read for his insightful—and highly successful—methods for handling dogs. Read “Cesar’s Tips” for guidance on specific nuisance behaviors, how to communicate in dog language, and how to “start off on the right paw” with your new addition.
PetEducation.com
examines dog biting and offers ways to reduce the risk of your dog biting someone, namely through spaying/neutering, training, and socialization. You’ll also find tips on how to avoid being bitten and what to do if you are bitten.
For information on doggie day care or dog walkers …
The Humane Society of the United States
covers everything you’d want to know when choosing a pet sitter. Find suggestions on what to look for in a prospective sitter and how you can prepare your dog for your absence. The article provides phone numbers for two organizations that offer pet sitter accreditation and referrals.
Dog Owner’s Guide
provides an introduction to dog day care with information on the screening process (most facilities require your dog to pass an entrance exam or interview) and offers a list of things to consider when choosing a facility.
For grooming info …
PetPlace.com
has an excellent assortment of articles on dog grooming, although you’ll need to navigate through a tangle of ads and pop-ups. Don’t let these deter you, because the articles here are veterinarian approved, ensuring that you get trusted information on how to bathe your dog, clean your dog’s ears, and trim those toenails, to name a few examples. If you’d rather leave the grooming to a professional, don’t miss the article “How to Pick a Groomer.”
For help getting your lost dog home …
Animal Planet
offers some brief advice here on what to do if your dog becomes lost. Also visit the “Dog Tags” link for information on dog IDs, including an introduction to tattoos and microchips.
For laws relating to dog ownership…
Dog Law
is a collaborative project of Nolo (a legal publisher), Justia (an online repository of legal information and services), and Mary Randolph (a lawyer and author with a love for pugs). The site provides an excellent introduction to the state and local laws affecting you and your dog, such as “Licenses,” “Leash Laws,” and “Pooper-Scooper Laws.”
The Animal Legal & Historical Center
of Michigan State University College of Law has a table that groups the U.S. states by their different types of leash laws. Click on your state for a summary of the law and the full statute. Not all states have leash laws in place; if your state isn’t listed on the table, check out “Which States Have General ‘Leash Laws?’” for more information.
The Animal Legal Defense Fund’s
“Public Resources and Information” section is loaded with legal advice on issues relating to dog ownership. Find helpful articles on what to do if your dog has bitten someone, what to do if you’re involved in a custody battle over your dog, how to handle landlord/tenant disputes, and more.
Dog Health Information
Armed with the right resources, there’s a lot you can do to help keep your dog healthy. Finding the best diet, choosing a veterinarian, getting the proper vaccinations, spaying or neutering, establishing a disaster preparedness and first aid plan, and researching pet insurance are a good start. Overwhelmed? Read on for the Web’s best to help you make informed decisions about your dog’s health and well-being.
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- There’s plenty of reliable medical information online, but the Internet (and your good intentions) are no substitute for a trained veterinarian. It’s important to develop a relationship with a vet as soon as you get a dog. And remember to schedule regular checkups, which can detect possible problems before they become major health concerns.
- If your vet prescribes medication for your dog, or you need to purchase maintenance items like flea and tick medications, you’ll often save time and money by purchasing these items online. And with the wide selection on the Web, you can even buy your dog’s food online. See the “Where do I shop online for my dog?” section of this Web guide for our suggestions.
- Tempted to try a new dog food? Proceed slowly and with care: a sudden change in food can lead to digestion problems in your pooch. PetEducation.com advises a mix of 25% new food with 75% old food for at least three days to begin, then gradually increasing the new-food-to-old-food ratio.
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To choose the right dog food …
The Pet Food List
came into being as a result of the pet-food recall that began in March 2007. The list puts recalled foods in red for ready identification, and it’s also a useful source of information about the ingredients in many types of nonrecalled products.
Whole-Dog-Journal.com
has an article on how to choose from the wide range of dog foods available. For those determined to provide the perfect meal for their canines, this is the place to go.
Dog Owner’s Guide
is the online version of the publication of the same name, published by Canis Major. Here it offers an annotated essay on the BARF (bones and raw food) diet for dogs, a controversial diet that has grown in popularity. The article presents a balanced look at the diet, citing pros and cons.
ThePetCenter.com
is owned and operated by PetFoodDirect.com, a site that sells pet food and products. Given that, you might expect a bias in favor of the food products sold on that site. However, ThePetCenter.com does a great job of presenting an informed (though technical) look at what constitutes a balanced diet, with references from companion animal nutrition studies from the 1990s. Take a look at this lengthy yet thorough evaluation of grain-based vs. meat-based diets.
To find a veterinarian …
The American Veterinary Medical Association
has a comprehensive guide to choosing a veterinarian for your pet. The site offers tips on where to look for a vet and things to keep in mind when choosing a practice, such as office hours, services provided, and whether emergency care is available.
The American Animal Hospital Association
is the only agency that accredits animal hospitals and veterinary clinics throughout the United States and Canada. It provides a searchable database of facilities and a pet care library covering important health care issues.
For dental care …
Pet Dental
is devoted to raising awareness of the importance of your dog’s dental health to its overall health and well-being. The site recommends asking your vet for a dental exam if you suspect a problem and offers tips for a home dental care regimen. Note that the site is sponsored by pet food manufacturer Hill’s Pet Nutrition.
For information on vaccinations …
The American Veterinary Medical Association
introduces vaccinations, including what they are, why they’re important, and the associated risks. The article stresses the importance of working with your vet to determine the vaccines that are right for your dog and the appropriate vaccination schedule.
For advice on spaying or neutering your dog …
The ASPCA
(American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) features the “Top 10 Reasons to Spay or Neuter Your Pet” and offers a searchable database of low-cost spay/neuter providers. Simply enter your zip code and the distance you’re willing to travel and you’ll get a list of providers with contact information.
SPAY/USA
works to reduce the number of dogs and cats euthanized each year by advocating spaying and neutering services. The site can help you locate a low-cost clinic in your area.
East Tennessee Doberman Rescue
is a bare-bones site that offers some points for and against sterilization. Written by a veterinarian, the article deftly touches on some health concerns associated with the procedure. Don’t miss “Myths About Sterilization” near the bottom.
For first aid and disaster preparedness …
The American Red Cross
has courses to teach you how to give first aid to your dog. This article includes links to pop-ups with tips to deal with CPR, choking, and fractures. Search for pet first aid courses by state by clicking on the map or scrolling down to find your state in the alphabetical list.
The Humane Society of the United States
offers a well-organized article on how to prepare for an emergency or crisis situation with your pet in mind. Be sure to visit the links in the “Before the Disaster” section for a pet supply checklist.
For information on pet insurance …
The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
offers an insurance plan that is the recommend choice of many vets. And it’s also a good deed: the premiums help the ASPCA to continue its work to improve the welfare of America’s animals.
Veterinary Pet Insurance
is a popular company that provides competitive services and, like many of the more up-to-date providers, also offers a plan that covers wellness support to help with checkups and routine procedures such as flea and worm prevention.
For alternative therapies …
MedicineNet.com
examines a debate that rages in both the human and canine medical worlds: conventional medicine or alternative therapies? The article focuses on the rise of veterinary acupuncturists and chiropractors, takes a look at some case studies, and offers advice on how to proceed if you’re considering alternative therapies.
Urbanhound
has local guides for New York, Chicago, and San Francisco but also offers tons of information helpful to dogs living anywhere. Here it tackles alternative treatments like acupuncture, homeopathy, herbs, and massage.
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Chronicle Books
aims to show that our furry friends should not be deprived the health benefits of yoga. In fact, as Doga: Yoga for Dogs illustrates, dogs have been practicing it for centuries. Get an introduction to doga and meet some dogis with this interactive Flash tutorial, or buy the book from Amazon.com.
Buying Dog Supplies Online
Whether you want to save money on flea medication or dog food, find a snazzy dog sweater, or buy a new leash at 3 a.m., the Internet offers the convenience, wide selection, and discount prices you crave. Read on in this section for advice on what to buy and where to find the best sites to get dog chow, toys, accessories, medications, carriers, and crates.
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- If you have a purebred dog, an older dog, or a dog with health concerns, be sure to consult your veterinarian for recommended brands of food and medical items. An experienced professional who is familiar with your dog (and its specific breed, age, and health condition) can make the best suggestions.
- For an overview of the different diets and foods available for dogs and how to select the right one, see the “Where can I find the best health information for my dog?” section of this Web guide.
- For more general pet shopping sites, visit the findingDulcinea Pet Care Web Guide.
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For advice on what to buy…
eBay
has an excellent guide on pet gear. Visit the guide for tips on things like dog toys, collars, leashes, training guides, food and treats, crates, and more.
PetEducation.com
offers a detailed introduction to the different types of collars and leads (leashes) available. You’ll find information on sizing and descriptions of the different collar styles most suitable for certain types of dogs. Learn about harnesses, halter-type collars, chain-slip collars, and pronged collars.
For dog food, toys, and accessories …
Dog.com
promises “Everything and Anything Dog,” and it delivers. From high-end dog food and treats to dog beds and dog collars, you’ll find what you need—and a lot more. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, scroll down the homepage to find the most popular categories and see the best-selling items in each for inspiration.
PetFoodDirect.com
provides detailed write-ups for all the food products the site carries and stocks a raft of grooming devices, toys, collars, and all the necessary accoutrements of the modern household dog. The site also offers discounts on quality products, definitely making it worth a visit.
SitStay.com
has a long list of must-haves for the special dog in your life. Look for beds, crates, collars, grooming supplies, supplements, and more. There’s even a section called “Cooling Your Dog,” full of gadgets to keep your pal cool on a hot summer day.
OhMyDogSupplies.com
promises “Unique dog gear you’ll never find at the local pet store.” It backs up the claim with a money-back-plus-$100 “uniqueness guarantee.” Browse the extensive selection of natural and organic dog foods, luxurious dog beds and couches, sterling silver ID tag bling, and ultra-hip dog travel accessories.
For medications …
1-800-PetMeds
is a licensed pharmacy and a convenient—and often cheaper—alternative to visiting the veterinary clinic. If a prescription is required for any medication that you order, then 1-800-PetMeds will contact your vet to verify.
For carriers and crates …
PetTravel.com
details the airline requirements for pet carriers and crates and includes links to purchase authorized carriers for in-cabin travel and approved crates for dogs traveling as cargo.
Pet Dreams
sells crates made by Midwest (the largest manufacturer of dog homes in the United States) as well as a variety of crate covers, beds, and bumpers. Choose from classic, plush, side-door, or designer Cratewear to transform your dog’s crate into a royal boudoir.
HandsNpaws
sells a wide variety of pet products but specializes in items for the dog who travels and enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle. Marvel at the huge selection of carriers, car travel accessories, outdoor gear, and outerwear.
Who knew?
DogBirthdaysAndParties.com
brings new meaning to the term “party animal.” Whether it’s a birthday party, a puppy shower, or an obedience school graduation fiesta, the site has you covered with party supplies, invitations, activities and games, and free dog birthday cake recipes.
For the Traveling Dog Owner
If you’re of the “have dog, will travel” mindset, you’re in luck: the Internet is teeming with information on pet-friendly accommodations, airline guidelines, and travel advice so that you and your dog can travel together in style. And if your pooch is more of a homebody, never fear: we’ve also rounded up some great Web sites that can help you find reliable, trustworthy lodgings that specialize in making dogs feel right at home. The Wald-Arf Astoria, anyone?
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- Especially in the summer months, dogs are at risk of dehydration, which can lead to heatstroke. If you don’t want to lug your dog’s water bowl with you everywhere, there are lots of lightweight travel bowls to choose from. Use a site like NexTag to find one that meets your needs.
- For a look at how individual airlines have performed in handling pets onboard, take a look at “Animal Airline Incident Reports,” based on reports filed by U.S. airlines since May 2005. Any incident involving a pet on a U.S. airline must be reported here, making this a reliable place to see trends.
- The best approach to finding a boarding kennel is to gather recommendations from people you trust: your vet, and friends or family members who have experience with the facility or provider. The American Boarding Kennels Association can be of some help, but information from locals will probably be more extensive and reliable when it comes to services in your area.
- If you need to purchase a pet carrier or crate, consult PetTravel.com, listed in the “Where do I shop online for my dog?” section of this guide. There you’ll also find airline requirements for pet carriers and crates.
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For general travel advice …
The American Veterinary Medical Association
offers excellent planning and preparation tips for travel by air or car with your dog.
PetTravel.com
has lots of information on traveling with your dog by air, train, or car. If you’re planning overseas travel, carefully review the “Pet Passport, Immigration and Quarantine Info” page for important things you’ll need to know about travel to more than 100 countries.
When traveling by car with your dog …
ThePetCenter.com’s
“How To Travel Safely With A Dog” gets you and your pooch prepared for the road. Use the linked headings at the top to skip to topics of interest, such as “Motion Sickness,” “Food and Water,” or “Rest Areas.”
When you need to fly with your dog …
The Humane Society of the United States
provides a summary of the pet travel policies of many of America’s airlines. Links are supplied to the airlines so you can easily check to see whether requirements have changed since the society compiled its information.
For dog-friendly lodgings …
DogFriendly.com
should be your first stop when planning a trip with your canine. The site has an extensive list of hotels, RV parks and campgrounds, beaches, and even restaurants that welcome dogs, as well as a valuable list of U.S. and Canadian public transportation systems that allow dogs, including light rail, buses, ferries, and trains.
BringFido.com
has a huge variety of dog-friendly hotels—more than 10,000 throughout all 50 states—that rivals that of any people-friendly hotel Web site. Choose your destination state on the clickable map to get a list of cities with hotels that welcome dogs. Each hotel comes with a profile, photos, pet policies, a map, and, in some cases, traveler reviews. Check room availability and even make reservations from this site.
For boarding your dog …
The American Boarding Kennels Association (ABKA)
provides accreditation to kennels and day care centers that meet the association’s standards. Here it offers a long document about what to look for in a kennel and how to guarantee a comfortable, stress-free stay for your dog. There’s also a pet services locator that searches for accredited kennels and day care centers.
The Dog Owner’s Guide
knows how difficult it is to leave your dog behind when you go on vacation. The site provides a thorough introduction to the different types of kennels, things to look for in a kennel and its staff, and ways to prepare your dog for the kennel environment.
PetSmart PetsHotels
are ABKA accredited, generally well reviewed by customers, and reputedly very clean; in addition, each “hotel” has a vet on 24-hour call. PetsHotel provides grooming, training, play, and day care services at indoor facilities that many owners will find more welcoming (if more expensive) than the traditional chain-link-fence-encircled kennels.
Who knew?
Wired
magazine takes a humorous peek at a luxury $85-a-night canine hotel in San Francisco.
Dog News, Blogs, and Forums
The Web is overflowing with magazines, blogs, and communities devoted to all things canine. We’ve pulled together a few of the best to help keep you informed and entertained.
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- When you find a kernel of wisdom or advice from a blog or forum, confirm the information on a trusted and unbiased site, like those we’ve included in the “Where can I find the best health information for my dog?” section of this guide.
- If you’re looking for publications that deal specifically with your dog’s breed, research clubs dedicated to the breed, as most will have newsletters. Visit the American Kennel Club Web site to find local AKC Parent Clubs.
- There are also many blogs devoted to specific breeds. Use a blog search engine like Technorati or BlogPulse to find blogs on your favorite breed.
- If you’ve got lots of canine advice that you’d like to pass on to others, consider starting your own blog. For more information on how to do this, see our findingDulcinea Blogs Web Guide.
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Urban Dog
is a quarterly magazine that pays tribute to our canine companions without the saccharine fluff found in many other publications. Enjoy the spare design and hip articles on the site and don’t miss “the inner dog” column, a collection of interviews with notable dog owners (mostly writers, actors, and producers).
Dogster’s
blog is loaded with news and tasty tidbits on all things canine. Scroll down the right side of the page to find categories like “Breed Specific Legislation,” “Dogs and Science,” “Dogs from the Past,” and “Working Dogs.”
The ASPCA
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) hosts a vibrant and active forum featuring live chats with animal behaviorists, discussion groups, and a place to post photos and videos of your dog in action. Overwhelmed by all of the options? Use the “Community Guide” on the right of the page for a tour.
Connect With Dog Owners
If your canine companion isn’t really a dog park kind of guy and you’re just not meeting other dog owners, use the sites below to connect with like-minded people. Dog lovers from all over come together on these community sites to share pictures, swap stories, glean dog care tips and advice, and make new friends.
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- As with any situation in which you post a profile on a Web site, be careful about how much personal information you provide on any of these sites. Not everyone has the best intentions, and even dog owners can be deceitful and potentially use your information for unscrupulous purposes.
- Use common sense when meeting an online acquaintance in person. Consider meeting in a public place and let someone know ahead of time where you are going and whom you’ll be with.
- If you’ve arranged a play date for your pup with a new dog that you’ve “met” online, be aware that dogs have a very complex social structure, and the introduction may be a tense one. Use the advice offered by the Humane Society of the United States to help minimize any “first date” jitters.
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Meetup
is a community meeting place for people who share a common interest. Enter your zip code and interest, be it boxers or pugs, deaf dogs or senior dogs, and you’ll find a list of groups that share your passion. Take a look at the Meetup Group pages for descriptions, event calendars, photos, and member profiles.
Dogster
, as its name might suggest, is the Friendster/MySpace/Facebook of the canine world. It’s a social network of dogs—and the people who love them. Create a free Web page for your dog with photos and stories, and connect with other dog enthusiasts.
DateMyPet.com
takes some of the stress out of the whole online dating scene: while you’re busy finding a “date” or friend for your dog, you might find one yourself, too. Make a joint profile for yourself and your dog, type in your zip code, and explore the dating community.
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