"Where Do You Pet A Dog In NYC?" Asks Animal Lover (Or Dog Napper)

This could be you! (Photo by Daniella Zalcman)

A Reddit NYC poster asked today, "Where can I go to pet dogs in NYC?" Let's assume this person is not a dog napper, and let's assume that for whatever reason they don't want to just walk up to people walking their dogs on the sidewalk. A lot of people in New York want dogs, but as we were reminded in the Sh*t New Yorkers Say video, it just wouldn't be fair. So where do you go to hang out with some other man's best friend? Some suggestions:

You can volunteer to walk dogs at BARC in Williamsburg—just check out the volunteer info on their website. Plus, you'll feel all good inside because you are doing something nice for the human-less pups!
One Reddit poster suggest volunteering at the ACC in East New York, which they note is in need of volunteers. It's safe to assume that any shelter will be willing to discuss volunteer work with you.
While dog parks may seem like a good idea, the law will keep you out if you don't have a dog. Though you could try your luck at an off-leash event, or off-leash hours in a park.
Get a job, or a second job, at a doggie day care, a doggie spa, or as a dog walker.
Better yet, date someone with a dog!
Why not just adopt a dog from the shelter? You'd be saving a life!
Not ready for a dog, why not adopt a cat? They're a Gothamist-approved city pet! Some will even play fetch with you.

Where else can urban dwelling dog lovers sans dogs go to pet some pups?

Contact the author of this article or email tips@gothamist.com with further questions, comments or tips.

By Jen Carlson in Arts & Entertainment on January 31, 2012 5:29 PM

Comments [rss]

Peanut_Butter

I would walk a dog, but only the ones I liked. No chihuahas, poodles, labradoodles, or dachshunds.

Peanut_Butter

...or bulldogs, sharpeis (don't know if they get walked or not)

m015094

Move to the suburbs. Owning a dog in a city with a tiny apartment is proof that you are an asshole and that you care more about yourself than your dog.

Also, hey assholes, clean up your dog shit.

Dead_Air

I love going to the dog park at Washington Square Park. Although you aren't technically suppose to be inside the pen unless you have a dog, I just walk in, sit at a bench, and the dogs just come up to you looking for someone to play with. I've never had an owner complain that I was giving his/her dog too much love and attention.

Peanut_Butter

I've sat at the Union Square Park dog park...

nuyakcity

um what about central park before 9 a.m.? dogs everywhere

SFNY

I know a guy who asks "Pardon me, can I pet your dog?" It can take forever to get anywhere with him.

nicemarmot

People are shy about going up to dogs on the street? Not in my experience! I have random strangers sneak up behind my poor dog and pet her from behind, which, you know, dogs don't really like. Though that's not as bad as the parents who will allow their kids to run up and grab my dog like she's a toy.

chuzzlewit

under the chin, behind the ears...same as in most locales.

edit: ah god that was awful, time to go home...

SFNY

No, no, that was awesome!

NewtonCreek

Lady-folk prospective dog petters: I have two of the finest long haired mini dachs an unplanned teen pregnancy can afford. Holla.

dana lovell

i have a long haired mini dach myself and i must say, they are RIPE for the petting!

James Stephenson

Yup, you are correct. Cats are pets for people who aren't really ready for a pet.

SFNY

And deli cats are for petting a cat without having a pet.

The PE Reader

Animal Haven (one of the animal shelters in NYC, located in SoHo) has a mobile van that goes around NYC on the weekends. Come stop by from 12-3 PM and get some dog/cat therapy!
All are up for adoption AND we're looking for volunteers!

February schedule should be up soon, but use this link for reference.
http://www.animalhavenshelter....