July 11, 2022

By Courtney Collen, for SiouxFalls.Business

A Sioux Falls canine-loving entrepreneur is eager to bring exercise to your doorstep — literally.

Chloe Koval is merging her passions for pets and business with a brand-new, climate-controlled, canine fitness unit, On the Run Mobile Dog Gym.

“Once I saw this type of business do well in other parts of the country, I was really excited about it,” she said. “Whether it’s really hot, really cold or anywhere in between, I knew this would be a great addition to the Sioux Falls community.”

Koval grew up with dogs and had the luxury of an acreage for hers to run anytime but understands that’s not the case for everyone in town.

“Dogs were born to run,” she explained. “Running uses different muscles, and dogs can really thrive with the variety.”

Studies have shown that while dog walking is valuable, running allows them to expend more energy, she said. When they are unable to do so, it can lead to behavior problems or other issues in the home.

If the weather isn’t great, if dog owners live in an apartment or don’t have a place for their dog to truly or safely exercise, dogs can go for a run in a dry, comfortable setting.

Koval has transformed a large passenger van to serve customers right outside their front door.

The treadmill inside is self-propelled and provides a safe, full-body, low-impact workout because it’s designed for canines.

No motor is involved, so when the dog stops moving, the tread stops moving.

“These slat mill-style treads are used widely in dog training,” she said. “I have noticed some dogs are more hesitant while others pick it up quickly.”

While it can take a few minutes for the dog to get acquainted with the machine, Koval wants them to feel as comfortable as possible as they learn.

“I’ll be in front of them to monitor, encourage and interact, while offering water and potty breaks before and after,” she said. “I’m looking forward to establishing good relationships with dogs and their owners and bring this service to them.”

On the Run Mobile Dog Gym serves Sioux Falls and surrounding communities.

Koval will hold 30-minute sessions for $50. Various offerings will include a subscription for once-weekly services starting at $45 per session and more discounted pricing for multiple visits per week.

Koval’s on-call service allows for visits on short notice for dogs who have energy to expend. She also has a referral program, which includes free runs.

Find information on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @OnTheRun_SF, or call her directly at 605-610-8150.