Gina Spadafori had this to say in her (excerpted) conversation on The Well:

"But overall, it has become a much a much friendlier world for dogs and
dog-lovers over the 25 years I've been writing about them. More
off-leash dog areas, more hotels/motels taking dogs, more outdoor
dog-friendly dining spots and heaven knows more cool dog gear."

And:

"I look at amenities for dog-lovers as the logical extension of
recreation policy and use of my tax dollars. I support soccer fields,
tennis courts and bike trails. But I expect MY recreational needs to be
addressed as well, and those involve taking my dogs for long walks and
swims, in legal off-leash recreational areas."

She also mentions that "seven of 10 homes has a pet and only three of 10 homes has a child". Who knew? Of course, we're in full support of homes with both children and pets!