Milwaukee Dog Walker Turns Side Gig Into Decade-Old Business

Dog walking has become a full-time career for Lori Riegler.

The founder of Off Leash MKE now leads a team that provides daily care, training, and socialization for dogs in the Milwaukee area. The business marks its tenth anniversary this month. Riegler started the company a decade ago by listing her services on the Rover app. She was already working in veterinary services and volunteering at the Humane Society. The initial demand for her time grew quickly. What began as a part-time pursuit evolved into a full-service operation.

Riegler identified a specific need among local residents. Many owners work long shifts and return home exhausted. Their dogs often still have high energy levels. A standard walk around the block does not meet the physical or mental needs of those animals. The company’s Adventure Club addresses this gap. Handlers pick up dogs from their homes. They transport small groups to local trails, parks, and fields. The dogs spend time exploring new terrain and interacting with other canines. Riegler stated that this process allows pets to decompress. She noted that the animals return home fulfilled.

Staff growth has been a key factor in the company’s expansion. Riegler cannot manage all services alone. The business now offers pet sitting, training, and walking. Lindsey LaBeau joined the team in 2025. She has worked in dog care for six years. Her previous role was as a bather in a PetSmart grooming salon. LaBeau said she joined Off Leash to work with dogs she cares about. She described the job as more than a standard nine-to-five position. She wants to ensure the animals have fun and explore. LaBeau also cited the company culture as a reason for staying. She said her input is valued. She can suggest changes and see them implemented.

LaBeau applied that confidence during an Adventure Club outing. She picked up two dogs, named Napa and Willa, from their respective homes. She took them to Kletzsch Park. The group spent one hour walking and playing. LaBeau observed positive behavioral changes in both animals over time. She said building their confidence was rewarding. She enjoyed watching them come out of their shells. LaBeau has developed a specialty in caring for anxious dogs. She tells clients that puppies are experiencing the world for the first time. Those animals sometimes require extra patience. Creating a relationship with nervous pets is a satisfying part of her job.

The service provides a benefit for owners as well as pets. Clients know their dogs are getting exercise and mental stimulation. This knowledge reduces owner anxiety during work hours. Riegler said the service gives pet owners peace of mind. Owners know their dogs are getting what they need. This allows owners to relax and snuggle with their pets at the end of the day.

Off Leash MKE continues to operate in the Milwaukee area. The company provides daily walks, training, and group adventures. The tenth anniversary celebration took place in September. The team includes handlers who share a passion for animal care. Riegler and LaBeau lead the current group. The business model relies on small group interactions and outdoor exploration. Dogs gain social skills and burn energy. Owners gain time and mental relief. The company serves a specific niche in the local pet care market.