Most of our apartment complex inhabitants have dogs–or perhaps it just seems that way since they’re the ones out and about several times a day. Cats lurk on a few screened in lanais, mostly invisible during the daylight hours; their presence after dark only betrayed by glowing eyes.

Dog walking has a certain unwritten etiquette: clean up is the first commandment and the easiest to remember, with “dog relief” stations located at intervals, complete with tiny green disposal bags. Dog walkers acknowledge each other in passing, with a nod or smile. You also cede the right of way to walkers, joggers, bikers, fisherfolk and the ubiquitous golf carts driven by the maintenance and office staff.

Many dogs want to say “hi” to your puppy. The greeting routine includes nose to nose, the ever popular nose to tail end, play bowing and lots of dancing around, stretching leashes taut. Facile friendships are formed between the owners and the dogs themselves. If you are letting your canine romp in one of the dog parks, count on being joined by one, two or even four other dogs and their owners.

In the park, the dogs chase sticks, tennis balls, dig holes and generally run amok, generating dust clouds and flying mulch chips. Unless we owners know each other, conversation is stilted unless we’re discussing our furry friends.

Canines find nirvana and jump into instant playful relationships in a dog park. Humans, on the other hand, aren’t as open to exploring new friendship opportunities.