Today we’d like to introduce you to Charlotte Roy.
Hi Charlotte, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Germany. I always had a thing for animals, especially misunderstood or left behind/forgotten ones. When I was maybe 10, I started walking my neighbour’s dogs and always let them off leash, even though I wasn’t supposed to. I noticed they were so much happier. Sometimes it can help with behavioral issues by simply letting them run for a bit.
Around 1998, I went through 3 year apprenticeship to become an animal care taker. But I mostly worked with horses.
when I first moved to the USA in 2002 and continued working with horses and started a family.
In 2011 I became unemployed and we had a crazy Border Collie mix named Dot. Dot needed lots of exercise and I would take him on 2h+ off leash hikes every day. I encouraged my friends to let me take their dogs while they’re at work, so the dogs wouldn’t be stuck at home all day and my friends wouldn’t have to walk the dogs anymore when they got home and they could just relax together. With that, word quickly got out. One of my friends worked at my son’s school and would talk about me and what I do. Soon one of the teachers asked if she could pay me to take her dog as well. I happily agreed and Dogs Gone Wild was born. We would have so much fun. We would go to Cascade lakes, explore the mountains and just have a good old doggie time! Long hikes up our many buttes in the area become a staple. Sometimes we bushwhack through unfamiliar territory finding the best views and places. I watched dogs improve their agility, balance and gain strength while becoming a more confident canine citizen. I bring them back home happy and tired. And that’s one of the best parts! And being loved by these wonderful souls!
What changed is, I now have 2 people walking dogs for me. The location we walk has changed over the years with the growing Bend population, but otherwise we are still out there helping the sweetest pups in town to life their best life.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would say overall it was pretty smooth. Of course every business has its challenges and there were some lessons I had to learn to become a better pack leader. For example, not all dogs like to be in a pack.
The biggest struggles are actually weather related. Lots of snow and my 2 wheel drive van will get stuck a lot. Heat and heavy smoke in the summer certainly makes life more difficult for us. But then I always remember that I could be stuck in an office all day and that usually helps.
As you know, we’re big fans of Dogs Gone Wild Llc. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I am a dog pack walker and I do boarding in my home. The dogs are part of my family with plenty of exercise and stimulation.
I specialize in off-leash hikes. When I first started, it was a totally new thing to take a group of dogs without a leash.
I am probably known for my van driving through town picking up dogs.
. If you’re stuck at work and no way to get your dog exercised, I’m your girl! Once your pup goes through he eveluation and passes, you can call me anytime!
The van is also what sets me apart from the others. I have a big van with plenty of room. I even have crates for the dogs that like their own space.
Additionally, I believe I’m the only one in Bend that offers a 1h hike for specifically for senior dogs. Slow pace for likeminded souls. I believe it’s important for everyone to feel comfortable. I noticed early on that senior dogs were stressed and sometimes lashed out and younger dogs because they were a bit too wild for them. Others would try to keep up with the youngsters and the be sore for days afterwards. So I figured I would give them their own group to get a workout, sniff around and not be stressed.
I am most proud that I get to be part of raising the best dogs in Bend. I love watching young, shy puppies grow their strength and confidence. I love challenging them and bring them home happy and tired, because a tired dog is a happy dog!
I am proud that I am able to work with animals and help them live their best lives in the #1. dog town USA.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Start small and grow slowly. Be present and engaged with the dogs.
I wish I knew how much my mood and energy affects the pack dynamic. It’s important to be grounded, confident and consistent. Love what you do!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Dogsgonewildbend.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogsgonewild_bend
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/Dogsgonewildbend
