Seattle can be rough when it comes to dating, we’ve heard. How ruff the city is clearly led to the creation of yet another dating app directed at the city’s singles — and their dogs.
Wowzer, a dating app for dog lovers, debuts Thursday with the intention of connecting people who share an appreciation for animals that are not cats. In Seattle, that shouldn’t be a tough sell, where two tech companies recently teamed up to determine that it’s the most dog friendly city in the country.
Wowzer was co-founded by Michi Suzuki, a Seattle-native and PR and events professional, and Stephanie Worley, a veteran tech industry marketer. According to a news release, the longtime friends and dog lovers believe having a “wingpup” can relieve some of the anxiety of modern dating and create a more authentic, relaxing experience.
“This business was born out of a desire to help our single dog-loving friends meet people who share their interests and values,” Suzuki said. “The fact that it can help a lot more people is really heartening for us.”
Wowzer follows the Seattle arrival earlier this summer of Dig, another dating app for dog people.
Humans and pets into celebrating the new app’s debut on iOS (Android coming later) can come out Thursday to Downtown Dog Lounge’s “Barktoberfest” event in South Lake Union at 426 Terry Ave N. There will be giveaways, games and a dog costume contest from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
That’s right in the heart of Amazon country, where more than 6,000 registered dogs come to work every day. The tech giant was ranked as the most dog friendly company in America in June.
Wowzer will be free during launch, with a suite of premium membership services to follow. You don’t have to own a dog, just be a dog lover to meet like-minded people. An official launch party will take place at Optimism Brewing on Nov. 3, from 2 to 7 p.m.