During this economic downturn, it can be a challenge to find fun activities to do that don’t require a lot of money. The newest trend, that doesn’t cost a lot, is taking your pet out on a date!

There are groups you join that have weekly or monthly “group dates” for your pet to get some playtime in with other animals. It’s also a great way for you to meet other pet owners. There is usually little or no cost to join these groups.

Where can I sign up for a pet date?

• Find My Dog a Date – If you are located in the Phoenix area, a local man named Michael D’Elena started a group called “Find My Dog a Date.” Visit the website and get connected to other dog owners and sign up for the emails, so you know when the next meeting will be held. Owners can find dog dates by zip code as well as type of dog by using age, weight, breed, temperament and preferred activities.
• Meet Up – Another website to try is called “Meet-Up.” This website offers you an array of groups that “meet up” in your city. You can choose from many different types of pet groups, including ones exclusively for a certain breed of animal, small or large animal, and much more.

Do you know of other great websites for pet dates? Let us know!

Karen Myers is the Marketing Specialist for Arizona Central Credit Union, where she has worked since July 2008. She moved to Phoenix from Boulder, Colorado last year.