RAVENSWOOD — Think networking events are for the birds? Wrong species.
In Ravenswood, they're for the dogs.
On Jan. 29, the Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce is hosting a dog-friendly meet-and-greet for business owners and their pets at Urban Pooch, 5400 N. Damen Ave.
Though some folks revel in networking, plenty of others would rather sign up for a root canal. After noticing how many dogs were welcome in offices and shops up and down Ravenswood, Margaret O'Conor, the chamber's development director, figured an event open to two-legged attendees and their four-legged friends would be "a slam dunk."
"What a great way to get people to come who wouldn't come otherwise," with pups around to play the role of ice breaker, O'Conor said.
The event is open to any business owner, not just to chamber members or those in Ravenswood.
Love it or loathe it, networking can be particularly beneficial for independent contractors/freelancers and those whose business relies on referrals.
"It gets your face in front of people," said O'Conor.
If bought in advance, tickets to the event, which runs 6-9 p.m., are $8 for chamber members and $12 for non-members. Tickets at the door will cost $10 for members and $15 for non-members.
Admission includes a selection of beers from Empirical Brewery and food from Zaytune Mediterranean Grill, plus agility and obedience demonstrations.
Those activities are for the dogs, by the way.
For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here: