This month we are excited to celebrate another member of our wonderful team at Off Leash - meet Mikayla! She does dog walks, adventures, cat care, bunny care, you name it! We are so happy to have her on our team here at Off Leash MKE. Continue reading to learn more about the wonderful person behind the leash!
Mikayla and her dog Lilly
Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how long you've been a part of our team?
A: I am an outdoorsy, adventurous person who loves a good fishing, camping, or kayaking trip when I’m not on the clock. When my schedule allows, I volunteer with MADACC walking dogs, taking shelter dogs on field trips or attending events. I started my doggy career in 2018 when I began my dog daycare journey and pet sitting career on Rover. I have worked at 3 separate facilities and have helped many pets with overnight care and walks before finding Off Leash. I have been working with Off Leash since March of 2024. I love it because I get to enjoy the outdoors with furry friends by my side. It’s always fun to watch them explore their surroundings and work their brains during adventures.
Q: Do you have a favorite pet or client story you'd like to share?
A: I love all of the pets equally, but it warms my heart when they bring me a toy (or a shoe) to welcome me before our outings! A few of the goofballs include Luna, Bob, Louis and Magenta.
It is a rewarding feeling when I win a dog’s trust, especially if it takes extra time and reassurance. Every pup is different and learning how to cater to their needs is my favorite pastime.
Q: Besides working with animals, what are your hobbies or interests?
A: I enjoy traveling when possible and trying new things along the way. Sometimes I read or bake when I have extra time.
Q: Do you have any pets of your own? If so, tell us about them.
A: We adopted Lilly (formerly named Hooligan) from Elmbrook Humane Society ten years ago. Lilly is a Rat Terrier, Chihuahua, Dachshund, Mountain Cur Mix. She has been my sidekick since day one. Lilly enjoys burrowing under blankets, playing with her various toys (especially lamb chop) and hiking. She is incredibly agile despite the fact she has arthritis and is getting older. She loves to “roughhouse” with her mom, but is also the best snuggle bug in town. Lilly prefers to be the only dog, which is probably good for now- otherwise I’d fill my apartment!
Bob brings Mikayla a shoe
Q: Are there any favorite dog parks or pet-friendly spots you recommend in our area?
A: Lilly loves a trip to Riley’s or Salty Paws for special occasions. When it’s too hot or cold, she enjoys practicing agility at Canine Crosby’s gym in south Milwaukee. When the weather allows, Granville is a nice dog park with lots of space and river access. I’d recommend taking your dog as long as they are trained off leash-it is not fully fenced in!
Q: What's your go-to tip for clients looking to provide the best care for their pet?
A: Give your pets as much love as you can! Life is too short to not throw their favorite toy for them or give them a few extra minutes of snuggles. Your pups entire world revolves around you so make the time you get with them count. Take them on a nice walk or play their favorite game. You’ll never regret loving your pet too much.
Q: How would you describe the teamwork and camaraderie among our pet care team?
A: Everyone on the team is incredibly friendly and helpful. If you ever have questions or need clarification, there are *always* six plus humans willing to assist you at any given time. This team goes above and beyond to problem solve and lift each other up when necessary. We all want what is best for our furry friends and enjoy sharing tips and tricks when we find solutions.
Q: What do you appreciate most about working with our company?
A: I appreciate all of the four legged friends I have been able to build relationships with. Nothing means more to me than seeing their smiling faces upon my arrival. I love that Off Leash accepts any and all dogs into their program. It takes more time for some dogs than it does for others, but once you make a breakthrough with them, it is an incredibly rewarding feeling. Nothing beats earning a dog’s trust.
Thank you for your hard work, patience, and positive attitude every day, Mikayla!
Interested in learning more about the Off Leash MKE team? Be sure to check out past posts in our Behind the Leash series as well as our post from Dog Walker Appreciation Day!
Ready for tail-wagging trail adventures? Off Leash MKE’s top tips for the trails will keep your dog safe, your fellow hikers happy, and Milwaukee’s trails beautiful - Leash up, clean up, and make every adventure a blast!