New Charlotte-based dating app for dog lovers to launch soon
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Cindy Himmel and her daughter Amanda Pietrick with Artemis, a pit bull she rescued from Char-Meck AC&C. Photo: Adam Rodrigues Photography.
For all those tired of endless swiping, a new Charlotte-based dating app called Frolly aims to change the game by matching people through a shared love of dogs.
Why it matters: Frolly's founder, Cindy Himmel, hopes the new app brings some joy back to dating when it launches in September. She says the traits dog owners usually have — like being responsible, caring and trustworthy — are foundational for great relationships.
- "The qualities that people look for in partners are oftentimes the qualities that they exemplify with their dogs," like being adventurous, Himmel said.
Context: Himmel and her daughter, Amanda Pietrick, who are both dog lovers, also founded The Artemis Cares Fund to provide low-cost pet care for pit bull owners.
- Himmel tells Axios the idea for the app began after a conversation in which Pietrick said she ended things with someone because "he wasn't that into dogs."
How it works: Frolly is similar to other dating apps, where you'll create a personal profile with your background. You'll also include information about your life as a dog owner.
- Then you can create a profile for your dog with details like their size, breed and lifestyle — including their social habits and activity level.
- The app uses artificial intelligence matching algorithms to connect people based on dog-related preferences and lifestyle compatibility.
What they're saying: "The dog section encompasses ... basic things like if your dog is spayed or neutered. Are they allowed in your bed? Are they allowed on your furniture? If you have a cat, are they good with a cat? Is your dog good with children? So all the things that might be important to know," Himmel said.
State of play: The app is open to all ages, and you don't have to be a dog owner to join. But Himmel says you must be a "dog person."
- Himmel says she believes there will be plenty of opportunities to find a love match in the Charlotte area, especially since it's such a pet-friendly city. With dog-friendly patios, parks, and activities, she sees even more potential for fun and meaningful dates.
- "You do not have to have a dog to use the app. Absolutely not. You just have to be someone who shares a passion for them. It's not like everyone has to be obsessed with their dog, but I think they have to be open to their partner's love of dogs," Himmel said.
Zoom out: Frolly will be free to users for the first six months after it launches on the App Store and Google Play Store. After that, there will be a $12 monthly subscription fee. Membership proceeds will be donated to local rescue organizations.
- In Charlotte, around 20-25% of the app's profits will benefit Forgotten Now Family Rescue.
What's next: Eventually, it'll expand to other cities, including Chicago, Himmel's hometown, and partner with local rescue organizations in that area.