We had a chance to interview one of our newest Cardiff 101 Main Street members, racepacepups! Dogs need exercise just as much (if not more) than people, but not everyone has the time to give their pups the attention they deserve. That’s where racepacepups comes in! This local business is run by Kimberli Weeks who has a true passion for our furry best friends. See what she has to say about her love for dogs, her job and her participation in Dog Days of Summer on August 13th.
C101: When and how did you start your business?
K: racepacepups was conceived in early 2016 by myself, Kimberli Weeks, runner and dog lover. This concept came about shortly after I finished a self-described disappointing marathon, where I saw a woman running down Cardiff State Beach with a dog. It’s as if a lightbulb went off in my head and any race-related self pity vanished as ideas popped into my head like never before. After doing my due diligence, I saw there was no true local dog RUNNING business and jumped on the opportunity. Everything racepacepups is today, is because of an idea and a passion. Helping San Diego dogs become or stay fit is my goal.
C101: How long have you lived in Cardiff?
K: I am happy to say I grew up in San Diego and have enjoyed living in Cardiff for about a year and a half now. I have loved living in this unique, vibrant, local beach community and would love to remain here for many years. I’m that lady who waves at everyone, whether I’m walking, driving or running!
C101: What’s your favorite part about your job?
K: It’s a no brainer to say my favorite part of the job is running with dogs. I would have to say the highlight though is when a dog has a breakthrough run. Sometimes it means the first time they run past a light pole without stopping to sniff, or the first time a dog I’m with doesn’t bark at a passing dog. It usually coincides with “firsts” and I can guarantee I usually am cheering on whoever I’m with at that exact moment. I’ve had quite a few laughs from other people who probably think I’m the “crazy dog lady” and that’s fine with me! I get truly excited when something along these lines happens!
C101: For a new client, what’s something you would recommend for them?
K: I always recommend to new clients, especially with dogs who are new to leashed running, to get the OK from their vet. If the dog is still young, most breeds will not get the approval to run from their vet until 8-12 months, depending on their breed. This is because their joints aren’t fully formed yet. It’s better to err on the side of caution and meet with a vet first. I’m not going anywhere, so if waiting a few months is what you need to feel comfortable that your pup is fully grown, we wait!
C101: What’s your slogan?
K: The first slogan, if you will, that came to mind when my business started, is “Why hire a dog walker when you can have a dog RUNNER?” I feel dogs, like humans, can benefit from one on one running instead of solely walking. I’ve been in business for one year this September and I’ve already learned that even the most hyper dog, who has cycled through different dog walkers, finally got what they need with a runner. The temperament changes and it’s like the dog is transformed, making them behave for their owner upon return. This is only one of many examples.
C101: How will you be participating in Dog Days of Summer this year?
K: I am very much looking forward to my first vendor booth at the Dog Days of Summer event. There, I will have coupons for discounted runs, as well as fun giveaways that will all be exercise-related. I look forward to meeting more of the local dog community and will be happy to answer any dog (or human!) running related questions anyone may have! My goal as a Cardiff 101 member is to make our community dogs, as well as their owners, happy and fit because I think an active outdoors lifestyle is exactly what Cardiff-by-the-Sea is about!
If you’d like to contact Kimberli about giving your pups the exercise they need, visit her website, here!
We are proud to partner with the City of Encinitas to present the 12th Annual Cardiff Dog Days of Summer. This FREE event features over 200 dog-related vendors and rescue groups, pet adoptions, live music, dog contests, kids activities, beer & wine garden, food trucks and more! Catch all the action on August 13th from 12-6pm at the Encinitas Community Park. Go to the official event page, here!