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After Lori Riegler moved back to her hometown of Milwaukee, she took on a side gig walking dogs. A volunteer at the Humane Society, Riegler had always been passionate about animals and enjoyed the work – but soon she realized that it didn’t have to be part time. “Within about eight months I was able to leave my job and start walking dogs full time,” she says.
She officially opened Off Leash MKE, a dog-walking business, in 2016. The company quickly grew from just Riegler herself to a trusted team, including Marsha Zay, a certified dog trainer, who brings seven years of professional canine care experience. “Pets are such an important part of people’s lives,” Riegler says. “It’s an honor to be trusted with them.”
“I’m incredibly proud of the team we’ve built.”
– Lori Riegler
Q&A
What achievements are you most proud of?
Getting to 10 years is a really big achievement. Creating and building this team, I am so proud of our team. I get a little verclempt just thinking about it. I never thought that we would be here.
What makes a strong team member for Off Leash?
Somebody who has prior experience working with dogs, somebody who has a calm demeanor, mindset. They’re able to manage multiple tasks. They’re technologically savvy. They are good with people as well as dogs because they have to be able to manage our client relationships. Being resilient and able to think on their feet and transition from one environment to another.
