Social Networking Goes To The Dogs
Social media isn’t just for us humans anymore. Pet lovers around the world are using social networking sites to connect their pets, as well as each other. Sites and apps like Dogbook, Catbook, Petizens, and AnimalAttraction.com are just a few of the pet-themed social media sites popping up on the Internet recently.
Most of these sites are via Facebook or similar to the networking site in that users are able to post photos and create a profile that includes their pet’s sex, pedigree if they know it, favorite toys, and other info. Their owners are then able to post messages and share information as with other social networking sites.
Many of these sites are general networking pages for animal lovers, while others have a specific focus. AllAboutPets.com is a forum for pet lovers to share ideas on pet care, and PetPassions.com is basically an online dating site for pet lovers. These sites aren’t exactly new—just as there are plenty of niche online dating sites on the web, there seem to be just as many animal-focused and other specialized sites—but with the growing popularity of sites like Facebook and Twitter, the idea of “niche” social networking is receiving more buzz than ever before.
As a professional dog trainer I find that people find so much joy in their pets that building activities around their best friend is common.
It makes sense that social media would start to take off around the dogs as well. Activities around the dogs are on the rise… things like Canines and Cocktails… and my latest online program that has really taken off… getting fit with your dog as your training partner.
Good stuff. Wag!