"Where was that tip again? And who had shared that photo?" For many dog lovers, their community takes place online. At first, it was often through a forum. Later, many groups moved to Facebook. Convenient, but also cluttered. Messages quickly disappear into the background, conversations get scattered and valuable information is hard to find.
For Cecilia and Bianca, that was exactly the reason to look for an alternative. They wanted one central place for Schapendoeslhebbers again. A place where everything comes together and where members can easily keep in touch with each other.
Can you tell a little more about your community?
The Schapendoezen community is for lovers of the Dutch Schapendoes. People with one dog, multiple dogs or just a big heart for the breed.
According to Bianca, there is something special about the group.
"Sheepdogs do attract a certain type of people. You often have a click with each other besides the dog."
Many members have known each other for a long time. Some built up a large circle of friends through the old forum. Cecilia and Bianca wanted to bring back that atmosphere in their own community.
Why did you start using the Socie app?
"We were missing oversight, engagement and a private place for our community. Facebook no longer felt like the right environment. Messages disappear, conversations get scattered."
With the Socie app, Cecilia and Bianca found an alternative to Facebook and a place reminiscent of the forum of old, but in a more modern format.
"You can categorize it neatly. That makes it easy to find things."
Contact with the Socie team is also appreciated.
"If something doesn't work or you don't understand something, you get a quick response. We really like that assistance."
A great value of Socie is that you are not tracked by algorithms, there are no advertisements and your privacy is guaranteed is guaranteed. This is also what Cecilia and Bianca mean by a safe environment.
How did the rollout of the app go?
The app was promoted through Facebook and within its own group of friends. This went step by step. Not everyone was waiting for another app right away. Still, our own network helped to get the first members on board. People who missed the old forum quickly recognized the added value of a private and clear place.
What parts do you guys use the most?
The bulletin board is widely used, with chats such as Doezenpraat, Koffiepraat, grooming and birthdays. There, members share photos, experiences, tips and questions. The latter is especially important. In a private environment, it feels safer to ask something or give advice. "It feels freer. People dare to share something more easily."
How do you keep the community alive?
By regularly posting something and starting conversations. Consider contests with the prize being a picture of the dog as the cover photo of the month or a poll. Small incentives keep members participating. This keeps the community stays active and enjoyable.
What does the Socie app give you?
For Cecilia, this is above all sociability, relaxation and inspiration. A social place for the hobby, without the distractions of major social media. Members can find information, share photos and keep in touch with people who share the same love for the breed.
What do members think of the app?
Feedback has been positive, especially on the atmosphere and the private nature. Members like the fact that the app is clear and that it is really about Schapendoezen. However, keeping the community active does require attention. Some members mainly watch. Others post pictures or start conversations. In this way the community grows naturally.
Why would you recommend Socie to other animal clubs?
For animal clubs that want to keep in touch with members or enthusiasts, Cecilia sees many advantages. The app is clear, flexible to set up and easy to use. Also, the support plays a big role.
"You are taken seriously by the Socie team. They are helpful and thoughtful."
For a community around an animal or hobby, it is not only about sharing information, but also about contact, recognition and fun.
