Meanwhile, see if you can meet people right in your building who share your interest in animals
. There are 72 million pet dogs in American households overall. That means you are highly likely to meet other dog lovers just by introducing yourself to your neighbors as you spot them. As you get acquainted, one of your neighbors might become a person who is happy to watch your dog during a family emergency, when you travel for work, or even when you go on vacation. Any influence like this can relieve the separation anxiety of long absences which can threaten an otherwise very pleasant pastime.