Set Up a Pet Picnic Playgroup

Similar to a kids playgroup, a doggie playgroup is a group of owners and pets who know each other and agree to meet up weekly for play dates. A great way to start a puppy playgroup is through local puppy obedience classes. Here's how:

• After attending a few classes, make an effort to get to know the other dog owners who also seem to genuinely care about raising a healthy, well-trained and socialized puppy.
• Share your idea about starting a puppy playgroup with them and collaborate to choose a time and date that works well for your schedules - Saturday morning, or Sunday afternoon perhaps.
• Once a month, or during the warm months, plan a pet picnic that lasts a few hours longer than the usual play date. Encourage the dog owners to bring their families and friends for a festive, furry weekend picnic in the park.
• Create a potluck list, and rotate responsibilities to bring meals. Or, ask everyone to bring their own picnic for their pooch and guests, and simply rotate the responsibility to reserve picnic tables.