4 Places to Find a Date when You Are Single with Dogs

You may find yourself single again after years of being in a relationship. Suddenly, due to death, divorce or mutual agreement, you are alone except for your beloved dog. Eventually you may decide to date again. I haven't dated since losing my husband three years ago, but now that I am thinking about it, I realize there is a lot to consider.

First of all, my dogs have become very attached to me, since it has just been us hanging out here at home. Secondly, anyone I dated would have to be a dog lover like me or I wouldn't even be interested. Thirdly, my dogs take up a big part of my schedule, so anyone I dated would have to understand that. So where do you find a single guy to date that would understand your devotion to your dogs?

1. A Dog Park: Paying attention to people who bring their dogs to a dog park is a great way to find a date. They must be a dog lover, or they wouldn't be there. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone that looks interesting to you. Watch how this person interacts with their dog, or even if they appear to be friendly with your dog. If you have seen them at the dog park before, it's a sure bet they live close. How convenient is that? Just be sure it isn't some married person hitting on you!

2. A Pet Supply Store: Surely you have heard of people finding a date in a grocery store, so why not at a pet specialty store? Take your dog with you and spend some time browsing the aisles. Sometimes these places even have shelters set up adoptions in the store or parking lot. It's a great time for you and your dog to socialize and you just never know who you might meet.

3. Dog Related Events: My local humane society puts on a dog social in a park nearby. They have contests for agility and for cutest dog. It is meant as a fundraiser, yet it is a great way to spend quality time with your dog and to meet other dog lovers.

4. Hiking Trails: If you have an area that allows you and your dog to use their hiking or walking trails, take a walk and a chance. Just be sure to carry a back pack equipped with some doggie snacks, some water and plastic bags to clean up any mess your dog makes. Some of these places have rest spots where you might be able to strike up a conversation with another hiker that has a dog with them. If you are uncomfortable hiking or walking the trail alone, invite a friend who has a dog to go with you.

There is nothing wrong with frequenting places where you might find someone with like interests. People who like country music and line dancing will go to a country bar to meet people, so the best place for a dog lover to meet people is at a dog related place.

More by this contributor:
Would You Give Up Your Pet for a Relationship?
Leaving Pets Home Alone: How Long is Okay?
Moving with a Pet: Things You Need to Research First