Welcome to paws for connection

Who is it for?

This guide is for adults who live alone, regularly walk their dog, and would enjoy a little more social interaction in their everyday life.

Did you know that even a brief hello or chat with a stranger or familiar face during a dog walk can give your day a small lift?

What does it involve?

The guide has four short sections: Understand, Prepare, Engage and Reflect, and Review and Build.

Learn about the importance of connection

Plan what feels right

Try it out on five dog walks

See what worked for you and choose what, if anything, to keep doing

Based on research

The guide draws on research into social connection, brief everyday interactions, and how dogs can create opportunities for conversation and connection.

That research has been turned into practical ideas you can try during your usual walks.

Your dog’s comfort, other people’s cues, safety, and what feels right for you all matter. There is no pressure to interact.

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