Tech-savvy pets looking for love

People aren't the only ones searching for that "special someone" online -- dogs and cats are in on the trend as well.

It looks like there are several Internet dating Web sites for not only pet lovers but also for pets.

(For the record, I stumbled upon these while doing research for a paper).

The slogan for Date my Pet,"Date me. Date my pet," basically says it all.

Here's the basic premise:

DateMyPet.com is the leading online dating website created exclusively for pet lovers. Whether you are looking for a life partner, a buddy for your pet or just someone to hang out with, here you'll be able to find exactly who you are looking for - pet lovers like yourself. It's fun, interactive, safe and anonymous - until you decide to take it further.

And take it further is what many people do according to the site's testimonies.

For example, Charlene wrote:

I have not had much success meeting anyone of quality online before. I had heard of your service online and decided to give it a try. I love all animals and thought it was a great idea to meet other animal lovers.

The site, which was founded by Robert Yau and his dog, Hershey and launched September 2004, is very user-friendly site. On the homepage you can do a quick search to see what the Web site has to offer before you even register. Basic membership is free. When you sign up, you include what pets you have and your options include dog, cat, reptile, fish, horse, bird, small animal and other. You then have your own profile page where you can upload a picture and include details about you and your animal, and what the two of you are looking for.

The site also features the latest "Pet News," and currently there's this story from the AP about candidates and their pets. (Also according to the news feed, My Catspace and MyDogspace recently launched).

There is also a link for "Pet advice" and "Dating tips."

Other sites with similar ideas are Pet Dating Online and Pets Passions.

The philosophy of Date my Pet -- which is probably similar for the other sites -- is that if potential suitors are both pet lovers, the dating process will go a bit more smoothly.

And even though it's a bit unconventional, it could even lead to some puppy love.