How to Be a Good Dog-Owner in San Francisco

Step 5 YOUR DOG ON A WALK: THE EXPERT

Really it's quite easy to be an expert dog-owner. So far all you've really had to do is pick up some poop and say hello to other people with dogs while you take yours out on a walk or for a beer. To really up your dog-owner game, try the following:

-Walk your friend's/neighbor's dogs.
Yes, I said it. It sounds outrageous at first, but really it's quite easy. If you're going to take your dog for an afternoon in Golden Gate Park, why not call up your neighbor and ask if her/his pup would like to come along too?

-Bring your dog to a Giants' game.
Once a year, Giants fans are allowed to bring their dogs with them to the games. Get one of those $5 hot-dogs for your hot dog and sign them up for the pre-game parade on the field. (See the Giants official website for more details.)

-Go to the Bark and Wine Ball
CLAW (Critter Lovers at Work) hosts a benefit ball where you and your dog can dance the night away and enjoy a full bar and buffet, all while raising money for animal shelters.

-Check out Pugs in the Park
At around 2:30 on the first Sunday each month, pugs (and their much larger owners) gather at Alta Plaza Park (in Pacific Heights) to all run around huff loudly together. The optional-yet-appreciated costumes are hilarious to say the least.

-Take your dog on the MUNI
Why not let them enjoy a cable car ride up the hill? Check out my other Instructable for all the details.

-Cruise dog blogs
Start with Dog Blog which features pictures of dogs tied to things and imaginative commentary. Or try this one, aptly named "Halloween Pet Costumes (a.k.a. Why Dogs Bite People)".

-Do good with your dog
Visit the elderly in your neighborhood, or bring some canine love to the children's ward of a hospital. There are plenty of groups out there that can teach you about volunteer opportunities for you and your pet. Try The Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs, Inc., Therapy Dogs International, Inc., or Delta Society.