Christopher Fouser is a fifth-generation Idahoan, born and raised in Boise. He is also an athlete, having played high school basketball, football, and track. Even though he has always loved to run, he was also a great high jumper, qualifying for the Jr. Olympics and the State Track Meet all four years of high school. Chris also had a passion for skiing and then snowboarding. And he has always loved the outdoors.
Chris has also always loved animals. As a kid, he wanted all insects to be his pets and begged his mom for lizards, rats, and everything in between. They settled on dogs. Chris’ first dog, at age 5, was a Bassett Hound named Lucy, and Chris was (and is) convinced he understood her. She talked (some called it howling), and he listened, which he credits as the reason he understands dogs so well. It’s no surprise to anyone that knows him that he is often referred to as “Boise’s dog whisperer.” He’s always said they have a lot to say if we would listen!
Even though Chris’s kindergarten dream of marrying Lucy didn’t come true, he understood at a very early age that owners do not consider their dogs to be just “dogs.” No, dogs are far more sacred. Each is a beloved member of their family. And they need to be treated with love and watched over with care.
Chris left Boise for college and returned after graduation, assuming he would live happily ever after in a climate-controlled office! That worked for a few years, but about six years ago, Chris realized he needed to be outdoors (regardless of the weather) in the foothills, on the greenbelt, and in the parks. And he wanted to be with dogs.
After a lot of soul searching, he decided to give up his office gig and announced his new business would be walking, hiking, trail running, and just running around neighborhoods! With dogs, of course! When he started, he handed out flyers advertising his services and drove Uber and Lyft while waiting. Then he got his first call, and primarily through word of mouth, he soon had enough clients to be outside all day long!
For the last 6 years, he has had a thriving business doing exactly what he loves. Lucy would be proud.
Chris also can dog sit. He can stay at your home, or your dog can come to his. He just hopes no one minds if the pup is allowed up on the bed!
And when you’re out and about, look for the Zen Van. If you see his Van, take a picture, and send it to us. We’ll give you a discount on your pup’s first adventure.