Interview with entrepreness Jen Procter “Portland Dog Runner”

April 2, 2010 by Mai T. | Comments (0)

Do you have a beloved four-legged pet that can’t seem to control his energy or know where to place it? Jen Procter is the owner of a dog running business and is known as the Portland Dog Runner. She truly believes that dogs who have the opportunity to exercise are happier, healthier, and make for a calmer, happier environment at home with their families! Jen shares with us her experience and history with dogs and gives several helpful tips and tricks to make your pets happier! Also, visit Portland Dog Runner’s Facebook page to see all of Jen’s doggie clients!

Interview conducted by CRAVE Portland’s Tina Le.

I understand that you’ve always had a fascination with dogs, but not necessarily with running! Can you tell us about how and why you fell in love with running with dogs?
When I was younger, I adopted a dog that simply needed exercise. I lived in an apartment where I had to walk my dog several times a week. I then realized that walking my dog a few times a week wasn’t enough to keep my dog happy and healthy, so I slowly began a running regime, which lead me to where I am today. I played softball in high school, and ran a little bit then, but not often. My personal trainer at the gym also recommended that I start running, so this was a great option for me.

Congratulations on completing your first full marathon last October! What’s the process like preparing for a marathon? Can you share any special moments you’ve experienced during this process?
Running with a dog comes very naturally to me. It’s revitalizing and it’s inspiring to see the dog so happy to run. The process to train is to keep running, and also find a support system to make the experience more fun and challenging as well.

You’ve worked with many dogs during your lifetime. Which experience was the most inspirational?
Frodo was my first dog that was around when I was born. He was a St. Bernard, and I learned how to walk by hanging on his fur and walking with him.

Susie was a stray border-collie mixed that I brought home from school. She would follow kids to school everyday, and one day I decided to take her home. My parents wanted me to be responsible for her, so I enrolled in a 4H dog training program. I’d show her at local county fairs, and state fairs as well. I had her all through high school and she taught me how to really care for a dog.

Polly was the dog that inspired me to run. She was a dog that needed a lot of exercise, and running with her was the best option to keep us both happy.

What are some important health tips for dogs that most dog owners tend to overlook?
Food and exercise! It is very important that dog owners pay attention to what their dog is eating. Their diet can determine all factors of their lifestyle, such as mood, energy level and overall health, just like humans. I recommend a raw food diet for dogs. I had a friend who had a dog that was extremely ill, and her veterinarian kept on prescribing medication that just wasn’t working. Then she took her dog to a holistic veterinarian which recommended to start from scratch and begin with a raw food diet. The dog recovered from illness completely and is a healthy dog today. My friend owns a pet supply store called Meat that focuses on raw food for dogs. I highly encourage a raw meat diet along with exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle for your dog.

Through the process of running and caring for dogs, what have you learned about yourself that you didn’t know before?
My experience with them has grown to a higher level of appreciation, and I’ve realized that I love dogs more than I possibly could. I’ve also learned to be a lot more resourceful, maintain my personal drive and motivation, and boost my stamina as well.

Where are your favorite places to run with dogs? What type of environment do you prefer?
My favorite places to run include Mt.Tabor, Forest Park, and a trail in Washington that runs from Scappoose to Verona.

What do you love most about your job and why?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is enriching the lives of the dog and its owner. Dogs are much happier once they get opportunities to exercise, and that makes a much happier, and calmer relationship with its owner.

Do you have any tips for beginners who would like to start running with their dog?
Most important factor is to know and understand your dog. Check with your veterinarian first before you begin a running regimen with your dog. They need to have their nails clipped and their paws checked, especially if they’re under a year old. Be alert when running your dog and make sure to keep them on a leash at all times. There are many distractions in the environment that can be dangerous if you’re not paying attention.

What is your inspiration on days where you find it more difficult to run?
Knowing that I get the opportunity to make a dog’s life better by spending time with them and take them on a run.

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