Oregon Ruff Runners is hiring people to take dogs on outings to help fulfill our mission to keep our client’s dogs happy and healthy through physical and mental stimulation. Running dogs is challenging but a very fun and rewarding job! Most dogs are excited to get out and explore the neighborhood and our clients enjoy the tired pups we return to them.

Running with a dog is very different than running by yourself. Dogs don’t always run a consistent speed, often stop for potty or sniffing breaks, and you must be aware of your dog’s behavior and potential behavioral triggers around you at all times (such as cats, bikes, etc.). Also, some of the dogs don’t have great leash skills – some pull throughout the run, although some settle into a good rhythm after the first several minutes. We are not looking to train the dogs how to walk/run on a leash, but we also don’t want them to be out of control.

While being a dog runner is a great way to exercise while you work or train for running races, dog running may not be a good fit if you are concerned with your running technique or consistency. Also, runners must be friendly yet firm with the pups. For example, some dogs would spend the whole time sniffing if they could, but our clients are paying us for running, not sniffing. We like to keep our runs pretty structured.

Dog runners are important to the success of our business and when we look to connect a runner with one of our clients, we seek only exceptional candidates.

Our runners are athletes, many holding or pursuing higher degrees while others work elsewhere but with a flexible schedule. All our runners truly care for animals. This is a part-time opportunity and is ideal for those seeking a supplemental income.

We look to hire runners who can maintain a fairly consistent schedule with several available hours either in the morning (usually after 8am) or around mid-day, for multiple days a week (Monday to Friday).

Interested runners must meet the following criteria in order to qualify for an interview:
– Have a reliable vehicle and be willing to drive to clients and transport dogs
– Live within or at most 5 miles outside of the Eugene/Springfield area
– Comfortable with dogs of all sizes (able to handle two large dogs at once)
– Comfortable with different training collars
– Be able to run with dogs and have a good time
– Able to run a minimum of two 3 mile sessions daily
– Must currently be able to run at least a 8-10 min/mile pace
– Willing to walk some of our older dogs and younger puppies
– Must currently be injury free
– Weather resilient (Snow, rain, below freezing temp, summer, etc.)
– Have no criminal record and pass a background check
– Hold U.S. citizenship or legal working documents
– Able to commit to six or more outings during one or more of the following time blocks Monday through Friday: – 8:00 am – 11:00 am
– 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
– 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm (*less need for these times during the summer/hot weather) – Own a smartphone with a data plan
– Must be very responsible, reliable, trustworthy, and organized – Must be able to follow instructions
– Must have good communication skills

Compensation:
$15.50 per hour plus milage and tips
Runners typically earn between $300 – $1500+ per month based on availability and number of outings and dogs.