Introduction
If you’ve ever strolled through Yoyogi Park in Tokyo, you might have noticed a man dog walking a large group of dogs, calmly leading them through the bustling city streets. That man is Nobuaki Moribe, a dog walker whose skill and dedication have earned him the title of Japan’s ultimate dog walker. Born in Oita Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, Moribe is not only a professional dog walker but also the CEO of a dog grooming company called Furi Furi. With a passion for dog walking that began in his childhood, Moribe has turned what was once a simple hobby into a thriving business and a way of life.
The Journey of Dog Walking
Moribe’s decision to become a dog walker wasn’t part of a grand plan; it was born out of a simple desire to keep his own dogs happy. As the owner of five poodles, two Chihuahuas, and a bichon frise, Moribe wanted to make sure his dogs got plenty of exercise. He noticed that his dogs seemed happiest when walking in a group, so he began inviting more dogs to join them. The joy and happiness that came from these group walks made Moribe realize that this could be something more than just a routine. It wasn’t just about dog walking; it was about creating a fun, social experience for them, and that idea became the foundation for his dog-walking career.
Managing a Pack: Walking Up to 25 Dogs at Once
Walking a large number of dogs at once is no easy task, but it’s one that Moribe has mastered over the years. On any given day, he might be walking anywhere from 14 to 23 dogs. The most he’s ever walked at one time was 25, which happened during a particularly busy day in early January. Despite the challenges, Moribe has a system in place that keeps everything under control. His staff at Furi Furi helps prepare all the necessary equipment, like leashes and other gear, ensuring that each walk goes smoothly.
One might wonder how Moribe manages to keep so many dogs in line, especially in a crowded city like Tokyo. According to him, the dogs don’t fight much because they see themselves as part of a team when they walk together. If any disagreements arise, a stern warning from Moribe is usually enough to settle things down. His calm and confident approach helps maintain harmony within the group, making the walks enjoyable for everyone involved.
Navigating the Challenges of Tokyo’s Streets
Walking a large pack of dog walking through Tokyo’s crowded streets comes with its own set of challenges. Moribe often attracts attention from passersby, many of whom want to take pictures of the impressive sight. While this attention is mostly positive, it can sometimes cause problems if people get too close. To prevent any accidents, Moribe takes precautions like making the dogs wear diapers, ensuring that they don’t urinate on anyone in public.
Another challenge is dealing with the inevitable moments when a dog needs to relieve itself during a walk. Moribe handles this with the same care and responsibility that any dog owner should. If a dog poops while they’re out, he stops, scoops it up with toilet paper, and carries it in a bag until he can dispose of it properly. It’s all part of the job, and Moribe takes it in stride.
What Drives Nobuaki Moribe
For Moribe, dog walking is more than just a job; it’s a source of joy and fulfillment. When asked what he thinks about during his walks, his answer is simple: love and peace. He knows that people enjoy seeing the dogs on their walks and that it brings a bit of happiness to their day. That sense of spreading positivity is a big part of what keeps Moribe going.
After the walk is over, Moribe’s day doesn’t end. If the dogs have gotten dirty during the walk, he takes the time to wash them, ensuring they’re clean and comfortable before they head home. This attention to detail and care is what sets Moribe apart as a dog walker. He doesn’t just walk the dogs; he looks after their well-being in every way possible.
