HoundsOut Gives Your Pups The Socialization, Exercise & Care They Need

This Patch article is sponsored by HoundsOut.

Local businesses are the heart of our communities. Patch had a chance to talk with Jessica Rennie, Owner of HoundsOut.

Patch: Tell us a bit about your business or organization.

Jessica Rennie: HoundsOut is a service that provides dogs the outlet they need to socialize, exercise and break up their day. We pick up dogs, take them to different trails and private land within our service areas for 2-3 hours, and then drop them back off at home afterwards. Dog owners have peace of mind knowing their loyal companions are getting playtime in while they are at work.

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town, or how long has your organization been around in the community?

Rennie: Since January 2023.

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?

Rennie: My husband and I got our puppy Meeko in June of 2020, during the height of Covid. She was skittish and anxious around people in the rare occurrence when they would visit during that time. Not to mention, she’s a border collie with what seems to be nonstop energy. We found it tough to give her the socialization she needs and the exercise she craves between my husband and I working the majority of the day. We found getting her out on the trails, even if just for an hour, was the best way to have her needs met. She got to sniff, run and play with other dogs and get her energy out. We created HoundsOut to provide the same experience for other pups and their owners.

Patch: If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger in five words, what would those words be?

Rennie: Socialization, Exercise, Reliable, Local, Dedicated

Patch: What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your job?

Rennie: Building up the awareness to understand the benefits of dogs socializing with other pups, and how it engages them both physically and mentally.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?

Rennie: We believe pups are a family member, and allowing people to know their fur babies are well taken care of and having a blast out on the trails is a great feeling.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?

Rennie: Our hikes include pick up and drop off in addition to playtime on the trails with other dogs in their group. Customers provide us access to their home and are not required to be home for us to pick up and drop off their dogs. Dogs begin on a leash with us, and graduate to a longer and longer leash until they earn the right to run off leash based on their recall skills. Additionally, we provide a free consultation before sessions begin to ensure each dog is a good fit for our groups.

Patch: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

Rennie: Don’t try to do it all. Choose your focus and perfect that rather than juggling too many things.

Patch: Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about?

Rennie: We’re working on establishing more partnerships with local dog rescues.

Patch: Do you have any events coming up in your community?

Rennie: We’re working on putting together a local event in the coming month and will be sure to share details as soon as things are in place. You can expect a lot of wagging tails, and a fun time!

Head to HoundsOut.com for more info! Plus, make sure to follow HoundsOut on Facebook and Instagram. You can also give them a call at 203-884-0500.