South Milwaukee Entrepreneur Launches Unique Mobile Dog Gym
A new fitness trend is emerging in Wisconsin, focused on the well-being of dogs rather than humans. In South Milwaukee, a mobile dog gym called Alt Dog Run is now offering a unique solution for pet owners looking to keep their dogs active, even during the harsh winter months.
Owner Andrea Tripp has transformed a large truck into a mobile gym equipped with two treadmills designed specifically for dogs. “In Wisconsin, our winters can be brutal, and it’s hard to take your dog out for even five minutes, especially when they get cold paws from the salt,” Tripp explained. The mobile gym provides an alternative to traditional dog walking, offering a controlled environment for exercise.
Dogs of all sizes can participate in treadmill sessions, with their harnesses clipped to a chain to ensure safety. The treadmills are self-propelled, allowing dogs to run at their own pace. “I saw how my dogs needed the activity, and then I thought, you know, I could make a business of it too,” Tripp noted. She initially began this venture in her basement to give her own dogs extra exercise before deciding to take it on the road at the beginning of the year.
In addition to treadmill sessions, Alt Dog Run offers photography, dog lure courses, and agility lessons, which can be arranged through private house calls, larger events, or partnerships with other pet-related organizations, including Ma, Paws, and Me Pet Rescue. “We had no idea Randy, a puppy mill survivor, would actually do the treadmill, and he killed it. He loves treats. He got up there, he did so good,” said Jen Blossom, co-founder of the organization. All dogs adopted from the rescue receive a complimentary treadmill session.
While some dogs may initially find the treadmill experience a bit challenging, Tripp emphasizes that patience is key. “Not all dogs will immediately start running on the treadmills. For some, it’s a little wonky at first, kind of like the first time you work on ice skates. But after a minute on skates, you can begin to move around smoothly. That goes the same for dogs,” she explained.
Alt Dog Run is one of the few mobile dog gyms in Wisconsin. While it cannot fully replace the experience of a dog park, it provides a valuable alternative for busy pet owners. “It does a lot more than just doing a 2- or 3-mile-per-hour walk around your block a couple of times that your dog is used to. So it’s a new routine, a new experience,” Tripp said.
Sessions at the mobile dog gym range from 5 to 20 minutes and cost between $10 and $30. Pet owners can find more information about Alt Dog Run on Facebook or contact Tripp directly at 262-308-7538.
This innovative venture not only helps dogs stay active but also promotes a sense of community among pet owners in the region.
