Tuesday, January 17, 2012

SociaBulls: Snowy Winter Stroll and Growing our Group

We welcomed our first snowy walk this weekend with plenty of our short-haired pooches decked out in a variety of winter gear:
Until I owned my own short-haired dog, I didn't realize how their own fur often isn't enough to keep them warm in the winter, and it's always interesting to see the array of coats, hoodies, sweaters, and snow suits the pooches wear.
The snow created a peaceful walk and a perfect scenic backdrop for a fun morning walk with our current group.
Since our last walk, and the article that ran in the Chicago Tribune, we have received an overwhelming response from so many people who are interested in joining our group. It's great to hear there are so many people in our area who are excited about dog socialization and responsible ownership; we love how everyone has been sharing their stories and showing us photos of their gorgeous pooches. We have even had over 50 new member requests!
We are very excited about finding so many like-minded dog owners in the city and we are currently working on ideas to grow and integrate those interested in joining into our walks.
We do want to make sure that as we grow we are doing so responsibly. Our structure is very important to allowing dogs of all socialization levels, including timid dogs, leash reactive dogs, and over-enthusiastic dogs, to be successful and at the same time we want to model the importance of responsible dog ownership.
So for those of you who have emailed us about your interest, stay tuned as hope to be getting back with you by early next week with information on membership integration. We do look forward to meeting you, and join our Chicago SociaBulls Facebook page for updates.
We also had many people who had questions about whether there was a dog walking group in their area, or how to start a dog walking group. Stay tuned this week as we have a fantastic guest post from our favorite dog hiking group detailing how to start a group and maintain the structure to keep it successful.

19 comments:

Anonymous said...

All of the dogs look so good in their sweaters and coats (esp Maize - but maybe I'm partial!) I can't wait for the guest post - and I am so excited that your group is getting so popular! Our first walk was small, but successful, and we have had many people express interest in joining!

Laura said...

I love the girl with the horse style blanket and the haltie safety clipped to her collar!

TheQueerBird said...

I love all the sweaters! I admit to feeling silly when we show up and Fae is the only one in a jacket, but oh, her bare belly would be so sad without it! Sad puppy eyes + shivers = guilty owner. Glad to know she's not the only one :)

I've been playing with the idea of trying to start a pit-friendly group in the area (walking group/play group/training group...? Not sure.). Looking forward to the guest post!

Two Kitties One Pittie said...

Great post, as always! I will email the info to our future members tonight. And thanks, Laura -- that is my dog, Zoe! :)

Anonymous said...

I never thought I'd be one to put clothes on my pup, but it really is a necessity in this bitter cold! I love the array of adorable sweaters and coats. Congrats on all of your success! My co-worker and I have started a mini dog-walking group in the 'burbs.

Froggy said...

Maize did look awesome representing both The Sweater Shop AND University of Michigan. It was so great to be back with the pack!

SherBear said...

one idea to grow the group would be to have two different walk options on each Sunday and have someone like myself be in charge of the walk that you guys don't attend...I know I could get either Lex or Bob to help me out with Nala so I could keep the pack under control ;-) Starting on the 29th I have Sundays free for awhile and could lead a Lakeview or LP pack walk!

Anonymous said...

We're so proud to have known you guys before the stardom . . .

Rachel said...

What a great group! I love all the pics and everyone looks so great in their winter gear. Looking forward to the guest post! Thanks again for all your help and I hope you know how many people you have influenced and what a great thing you are doing :-)

Me said...

Awesome!
Was also thinking about starting my own group in Cincinnati (where BSL legislation is in effect, and there is A LOT of negative stereotyping about our beloved pitties).Can't wait for the guest post!
And DUH! Thank you so much for the time, energy, and positive press you two create with your blog and community action. Way to go!

Sagira said...

Love all the coats, very stylish. :)

Tucker The Crestie said...

Everyone looks adorable in their sweaters, coats, and hoodies! Congratulations on the success of your group!

Two French Bulldogs said...

who cares about the snow you guys still had a great get together and walk
Benny & Lily

Brenda said...

Nice to see that there's some snow and winter SOMEWHERE! Hard to complain about 64 degree weather in mid-January, but still... it seems kind of odd. That's quite a group you've got there. Did you ever imagine it would be so popular??

The Daily Pip said...

Everyone looks so stylish in their coats and sweaters.

Your pal, Pip

J Dot said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
J Dot said...

Those coats are awesome. I'd love to know where people are finding those.

sammi said...

Such an awesome initiative and what a fabulous way to spend a day, hanging out with your dog and like-minded people.

Sara Grace said...

Such well-dressed pups! I spotted some Zuke's treats - we looove those! Great pics!

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