Our Runners

How we choose our Athletes

Our athletes have a mixture of experience with both distance running and canine conditioning. All of our athletes have an unsurpassed commitment to animal health as well as personal health. The athletes have been screened, trained, and have undergone thorough background checks to ensure our clients’ safety.

Who are the Athletes?

Our athlete corps is composed of the cream of the crop from the military and the professional world. We have runners from the US Marine Corps, US Navy, US Army, and the US Air Force/Air National Guard. We have three airline pilots amongst our ranks as well as professionals from the business and medical worlds. The physical demands required for military service make our athletes the best in the business to run your dog. Who better to trust with both your dog and your home than a marine, sailor, airman or soldier? The flying public puts great trust and responsibility in their airline pilots and this transfers to Dog and Runner clients as well. Rest assured that while you are away at work or out and about that both your dog and your home are in the best of hands with these athletes.

Meet Our Athletes

Bryan (Co-founder): Trust, Honesty, Integrity: our guiding principles are held to the highest standards as evidenced through Bryan's ten year service in the United States Marine Corps as well as his current position as an airline pilot. Bryan's love for dogs paired with the physical demands of military service and marathon running have prepared him to meet the demands of your dog's physical fitness program.

Melanie (Co-founder): Although she has no actual military service, Melanie did have the toughest job in the Marines: Spouse-of-a-Marine. Coupled with her love for four legged creatures that bark, her strong business and medical backgrounds, and her active fitness lifestyle, Melanie is the ideal athlete for exercising your animal. Think your dog is too fast for our runners? Melanie is up for the challenge of high energy level dogs as our dedicated roller blade athlete.

Tony (Callsign "Slim"): Tony brings both strong athletic and professional backgrounds to Dog and Runner. A retired US Navy Commander/Naval Flight Officer and current airline pilot, Slims' dedication and discipline are apparent in everything he does. Thirty-one years of running experience, including several race wins, make him the ideal runner for your dog.

Kelly: One of our first additions to the Dog and Runner Team! Kelly was a competitive gymnast for many years. This powerhouse has two small kids, her own event planning business, and plenty of energy and speed to give your dog the workout they deserve.

Andy: An airline pilot, marathon runner and aspiring physical trainer (for people), Andy brings his top-notch fitness level to your dogs' training regime. His service as an Air National Guard medic further solidifies his dedication to health.

Chris: A former Air Force Mechanic, marathon runner, and student, Chris has the determination to keep your dog in shape. His long legs are perfect for some speed work, should your pup need an outlet for their boundless energy.

Penelope: A graduate of DePaul University, this marathon runner, and charity activist is the proud owner of two powerful breed dogs herself. Don’t let her petite frame fool you, Penelope will take your strong dog for a run-not the other way around!

Jeannette Villapiano: Jeannette is a very active, energetic grad student at the School of Art. She competed in 4 years of Division 1 college lacrosse, numerous races including a triathlon, and is currently training for a marathon. Not only does she have a passion for running and dogs, she values the importance of a healthy body and lifestyle for all living species. Her positive attitude and pure athleticism will keep your dog looking forward to each run.

Jennifer: This strong and determined athlete is our Information Technology expert. Her service as a current US Army Captain leading troops on and off the battlefield makes her quite the cool character. Just as she has done overseas with her soldiers, Jennifer will ensure that your dog is returned home safe and well-exercised.