Now, dogs get cyberspace for networking

Sites empower dog owners to form groups, create relationships with like-minded people

Devanshi Joshi. Vadodara/DNA
Monday, August 11, 2008

Now social networking is meant not only for humans but also for entertainment of dogs. Dogbook, Doggyspace, Dogster are the online social networking sites for dog lovers and owners. These sites feature photos, videos and other facilities alike regular networking sites empowering dog owners to connect, form groups, and create relationships with like-minded people around the globe. Dog networking sites also allows dog lovers to create personal profiles for their pets, set up friend networks and exchange messages. Vrushang Arya, a schoolgoer in Vadodara, says, "I learnt about social networking sites for dogs during my visit to the USA last year. My cousin in the USA has his dog's profile on one dog social networking site. I also have my dog's profile on Dogster. Here one can form groups and post favorite photos and videos to other friends across the globe." Praharsh Modi, a 20-year-old student living in the USA, created a profile on one of the networking sites, of her five-year-old great den named Deccoo, who has more than 100 friends on the site. "I have uploaded Deccoo's photos and videos. With other members, I discuss dog habit, problems, grooming style and also exchange tips to train them. My dog sits with me near the computer while I do the work for him," Praharsh said in an e-mail.Urvin Shah, a dog lover and a cyber expert, said: "People are signing up pet-specific sites to get help and support on specific issues. However, the concept of social networking for dogs is not in trend in India but is very popular in the USA and the UK."An interesting thing about dog social networking is that members greet each other like dogs by saying 'woof woof', 'vooooo' and all other dog-like acts. Information on dog breeding, health, grooming, food advice, etc are also available on these sites. Apart from this, different competitions for dogs are also held on basis of different games and looks. They also indulge in matchmaking for dogs and also help in tracking the lost dogs.