While Vancouver boasts easy access to numerous dog-friendly hiking trails, beaches, parks, and patios, a local couple says they couldn't find many scheduled events for pet owners to mingle.
"We always heard Vancouver is dog-friendly," Michelle Chua tells V.I.A. "But it is lacking in organized events compared to Toronto."
Chua, along with her boyfriend, Craig Pham, created Dog Society to bring canine owners from across the Lower Mainland together for fun and informative activities - and they haven't had to spend too much time raising interest in their events.
"Honestly, we haven't spent that much time getting the word out...just online on Facebook and by word of mouth we already have 20 to 30 people signed up," says Pham.
Chua says her passion for dogs developed when she was young but intensified over the pandemic when she started dog sitting and walking part-time. The couple bought their toy poodle, Charlie, last year.
"We've travelled a lot together and always want to create new experiences, connections, and memories...and make our dog happy," Pham explains.
Dog yoga offers "pawsitive" social event for pet owners
On June 8, the couple will host the first event for dog owners in Deer Lake Park. The free group doggie stroll starts at 2 p.m. and runs until 3:30 p.m. Attendees will get a free goody bag with dog treats, toys, and more.
To attend the events, participants must register for a free membership. The membership qualifies dogs for events based on their behaviour, size, and, most importantly, vaccination record, explains Chau.
On June 15, the couple will host Pawsitive Yoga: Yoga with Your Furry Friend at Stretch Studio. The event is ticketed and the size limit is 60 pounds for participating pooches.
"We will make exceptions on an individual basis for larger dogs if the owners email us," says Chau, noting that well-behaved big dogs might get the green light.
The event will start with a 15-minute mingle and meet-and-greet followed by 45 minutes of yoga.
Other events in the future include hikes with picnics and "Bites and Banter," which is a "foodie night" for pet owners and their furry best pals.
The couple is checking out pet-friendly patios to have brunches and other spots welcoming pooches to organize further events in Vancouver.
They also plan to have dog paint nights where an artist draws the outline of the canine and the owner paints it in (all accompanied by wine and bites). Down the line, they hope to host workshops and collaborate with dog training groups.
Pawsitive Yoga: Yoga with Your Furry Friend
When: June 15, from 4 - 5 p.m.
Where: Stretch Studio - 180 E Pender St
Cost: $33.28. Get tickets.
