This pup was dressed to impress. Photos: Holdfast Photography.
Ever swiped right on someone’s dating profile that had a picture of a dog, just because of the dog? There is a reason behind the countless photos of dogs on dating apps – everybody loves canines and they almost always guarantee a match.
After all, cute puppies are the best type of wingman because let’s admit it, dogs get dates.
Based on this universal truth, a Canberra woman has organised the perfect dating event to find a partner for you and your hairy friend.
After swiping through Tinder, Bumble and all the other online dating apps, Tatum Brown’s search for love was unsuccessful.
“I was always attracted to people with dogs and I would always swipe right on a profile with a dog picture but it never went anywhere,” she shared. “So I decided to create an event that combined dogs and traditional dating where you can meet genuine people who genuinely wanted to meet other people.”
Called Dating with Dogs, the event is for dog owners who are looking for more than puppy love. Providing a fun and flirty atmosphere – where butt-sniffing on the first date is definitely permitted – local singles can mingle with other dog lovers.
“Take this strawberry. Now follow me and I’ll introduce you to my human”..
Just like the classic movie scene where Pongo and Roger bump into Perdita and Anita in the park, Ms Brown said the presence of dogs causes people to relax and the canine friends can even play matchmaker.
“This event requires people showing up and putting themselves out there, which is perfect for people wanting to meet someone face-to-face rather than ghosting them on Tinder or Bumble,” she said with a laugh. “Dogs break the ice and instantly let people relax. Dogs actually calm people and their nerves and give them something to discuss and to bond over.”
While the humans enjoy a complimentary drink and canapes in a private beer garden, their four-legged friends will be served their own doggie canapes on little platters while getting acquainted off-leash.
There is no room for awkwardness with fun mingle mixer games giving people the chance to meet 30 other dog-loving singles. Ms Brown has been running these doggie-dating events since April last year and believes this event has a lasting effect on people’s lives.
Drool over the pups – and their owners.
“We have had some dogs adopted due to the events and I know of people who have gone on dates as a result of these events,” she said. “I’m not sure if they are lasting relationships but there are friendships that blossom from these events.
“I myself am now living with a girl who I met at one of these events. The events turn into a little community.
“Even if you don’t meet the love of your life, with a portion of ticket sales goes towards the Australian Deaf Dog Rescue, you will feel good about being there.”
Dating with Dogs Canberra
2pm – 4pm, 10 February and 10 March
Old Canberra Inn, 195 Mouat Street, Lyneham
Tickets: $39 each
Loading ...
