February doesn’t need to be a loveless month

This can be exasperating for those who cannot proudly say they have a ‘boo’ or ‘bae’ or, simply put, someone to exchange cards and chocolates with on 14 February.

A fake ‘Rent me for Valentine’s Day’ advert has been making the rounds on the Internet ahead of Cupid’s favourite day of the calendar. For those who have been missed by his arrow, this imaginary knight in shining fake armour will come to the rescue. For a fee. According to the advert, this unknown man is advertising his services for between R200 to R800 and he will pretend to be your boyfriend for two weeks after Valentine’s Day. Obviously, the advert is a spoof meant to poke fun at those lonely singletons on the year’s most romantic day.

For those singletons out there who are already practising popping heart-shaped balloons and making gagging noises at happy couples, February is not a month to be loathed. As the saying goes, “If you can’t beat them join them.”

Dogtown SA, an animal rehabilitation centre has launched a Be a Furry Valentine campaign. For just R250 one can receive a personalised Valentine’s Day card from a furry friend. The centre can either choose a dog for you or you can pick one yourself. The card is also a great gift idea for a loved one.

Also on the cards, is virtual love. No, not Internet dating. HDI marketers have joined the love movement and launched #ShareTheLove which is basically a free hugs campaign on social media. The campaign is aimed at encouraging all social media users to share virtual hugs from 12 to 14 February. “You don’t need to spend a cent to show someone you love them,” said Jason Levin, managing director of HDI.

“There is no price tag on love,” he added.

Details: pat@dogtownsa.org