Interview with Rocky
Rocky “Uncle Rock” Conway – NEW YORK DOGS ROCK
Rocky Conway known as “Uncle Rock” to his clients has achieved iconic status as a beloved dog walker in Dumbo. His signature bandana coupled with his one hoop earring and rugged, piratesque face, Dumbo’s Rocky radiates love and dedication as he skillfully walks up to 20 dogs a day.
Dog walking, says Rocky liberated me from the 9-5 world. I used to fill in for a dog walker friend while he was on vacation. The owner of that company then offered me a job. After a few months I decided to go at it alone and bought a dog walking route from a woman in Dumbo. Shortly after the purchase many of her initial customers moved away and panic mode set in.
In order to survive, Rocky had to build up the business by word of mouth. “I think it is my recap that saved my business and has helped it to flourish.” In the past, mini post it notes were used to leave dog owners a short recap of any concerns or information about their beloved canines. With the advancement of technology, people began requesting their recaps on their mobile devices. “These daily notations, in which I tend to ramble, successfully communicated to my customers the true affection and understanding that I had for their dogs,” says Rocky. More than one client has suggested that he write a children’s book.
Rocky states that in his line of work, human psychology is as important as animal psychology.
You must keep the pooch and pooch parents happy by remaining open minded, patient and tolerant of 4 legged and 2 legged quirks.
Currently searching for a business partner, “Uncle Rock” has plans to expand . However he is adamant that he rejects the current corporate model of dog walking and pledges that New York Dogs Rock will always retain the character of a mom and pop establishment.
Rocky’s 4 rules of dog ownership are the following
1- Love
2-Sincerity
3-Consistency
4- Boundaries.
“Working with dogs is love like you have never experienced. It is a tremendous pure and innocent soul to soul relationship”.
Service Area
Brooklyn
Dumbo, Vinegar Hill, Cobble Hill Boreum Hill, Carroll Gardens, Gowanus, Park Slope and Bay RidgeWe'll be servicing Manhattan in the near future. Check back for updates.
Useful Links
Pet Shop, Grooming, Boarding & Daycare
Paws on PineappleUrban Dog Training
DOGBOYVet Clinics
Emergency 24/7Vinegar Hill Veterinary Group - In Dumbo