Jack and the Pack

For Minnesota dog owners seeking more than just basic pet supplies, Jack and the Pack in St. Paul offers a truly distinctive and exciting experience. This isn't your average neighborhood pet store; it's a specialized hub dedicated to the world of dog pulling sports, providing not only high-quality gear but also invaluable expertise and encouragement for active canine companions and their human partners. If you've ever watched sled dog races or seen dogs happily pulling their owners on trails and wondered how to get involved, Jack and the Pack is your local gateway to these exhilarating activities.

In the heart of the Twin Cities, where outdoor adventures are a way of life, Jack and the Pack stands out by fostering a community around dog-powered sports like canicross, bikejoring, and kicksledding. As highlighted by glowing customer reviews, the focus here extends far beyond mere retail; it's about education, proper fitting, and personalized guidance to help both beginners and experienced enthusiasts get the most out of their adventures with their dogs. This article will explore what makes Jack and the Pack a unique and highly recommended destination for active dog owners across St. Paul and the wider Minnesota region.

Jack and the Pack is conveniently located in downtown St. Paul at 30 E 7th St Suite 220, St Paul, MN 55101, USA. This central location makes it readily accessible for residents throughout St. Paul, Minneapolis, and the surrounding metro area. Situated in a vibrant part of the city, the store is easy to find, often described as being right across from the Children's Museum on the corner of Wabasha and 7th Street.

For those traveling by car, parking options include street meters on Wabasha and 7th Street, suitable for quick pickups. For longer visits, local parking ramps are also available. While specific details on these ramps aren't provided, downtown St. Paul generally has several parking structures within walking distance. It's always a good idea to factor in a few extra minutes for parking when visiting downtown areas. For visitors utilizing public transportation, downtown St. Paul is a major hub for Metro Transit buses and the Green Line light rail, making the store easily reachable from various parts of the Twin Cities. The accessibility of its location underscores Jack and the Pack's commitment to serving a broad base of Minnesota dog enthusiasts. They also offer online ordering for convenience, allowing customers to access their specialized products even if a physical visit isn't immediately possible.

Jack and the Pack specializes in supporting dog pulling sports and active lifestyles, offering a distinct set of services that go beyond those of a typical pet store. Their offerings are geared towards education, proper equipment, and fostering enjoyable outdoor activities with dogs.

Services Offered:

• Dog Pulling Sports Instruction: They provide lessons and guidance for dog pulling sports, including canicross (cross-country running with a dog pulling), bikejoring (dog pulling a bicycle), and kicksledding (dog pulling a kicksled). These sessions are tailored for various dog temperaments and owner goals, from recreational enjoyment to competitive participation.
• Harness and Equipment Fitting: Expert fitting services for specialized dog harnesses and pulling equipment are a core offering. This ensures that dogs are comfortable, safe, and efficient while engaging in pulling activities. Customers are encouraged to bring their dogs to the store for proper fitting.
• Specialized Dog Food and Treats: They stock performance-oriented dog food and treats from trusted brands, catering to the dietary needs of active and athletic dogs.
• Dog Pulling Gear Sales: A comprehensive selection of equipment for dog pulling sports, including harnesses, lines, belts, bike antennas, kicksleds, and other related accessories from reputable brands like Nutrisource, Howling Dog Alaska, Non-Stop Dogwear, and more.
• Local Activity Information: They provide information on local trails and places that are friendly to dog sports, helping customers discover new areas to enjoy with their pups.
• Online Ordering: For convenience, customers can order equipment and supplies through their online store.
• Community Engagement and Education: As evidenced by reviews, they actively educate customers on new activities and the benefits of dog sports, fostering a supportive community around these pursuits. They also provide free dog-powered demos at community events.

Jack and the Pack stands out in the Minnesota pet landscape due to its unique specialization and the highly personalized, expert-driven service it provides. These highlights make it an invaluable resource for active dog owners.

Features / Highlights:

• Expert Guidance and Education: The owner, AJ, is consistently praised for her deep knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to teach dog pulling sports effectively. Customers report learning "SO MUCH" from just one session, indicating a strong educational component rather than just sales.
• Specialization in Dog Pulling Sports: Unlike general pet stores, Jack and the Pack focuses intensely on canicross, bikejoring, and kicksledding. This niche specialization means they offer unparalleled expertise and a curated selection of appropriate gear.
• Personalized Dog and Owner Training: Reviews highlight AJ's ability to adapt to different dog temperaments and owner goals, whether for recreational fun or competitive pursuits. This personalized approach helps dogs like "Sota," a reactive dog, thrive in new activities and reduce reactivity.
• High-Quality, Specialized Equipment: The store provides "all the equipment you need to have a fun and safe experience with your dog," with an emphasis on proper fitting for harnesses and other gear, crucial for the dog's comfort and performance.
• Dog-Friendly Environment: The store welcomes dogs, allowing for on-site fittings and a comfortable shopping experience for both pets and their owners. This ensures accurate sizing for specialized equipment.
• Community Building: By providing local trail information and encouraging participation in dog sports, Jack and the Pack helps build a community of active dog owners in Minnesota, fostering shared adventures and a supportive network.
• Woman-Owned and Queer-Friendly: The business proudly identifies as woman-owned and queer-friendly, also stocking products and offering services from other local women-owned brands, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and supporting local businesses.

For those ready to explore the exciting world of dog pulling sports or to simply get the best gear for their active canine, here is the contact information for Jack and the Pack:

Contact Information:

• Address: 30 E 7th St Suite 220, St Paul, MN 55101, USA
• Phone: (507) 456-9833
• Mobile Phone: +1 507-456-9833

It is recommended to call ahead, especially for harness fittings or specific class inquiries, to ensure personalized attention.

In conclusion, Jack and the Pack is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for Minnesota locals, particularly those in St. Paul and the wider Twin Cities area, who are passionate about active lifestyles with their dogs. This unique pet store goes far beyond typical retail, positioning itself as a specialist in dog pulling sports like canicross, bikejoring, and kicksledding. For dog owners looking to reduce their dog's reactivity, increase exercise, or simply discover fun new ways to bond with their canine companions, the personalized training and expert guidance offered by AJ and her team are invaluable.

The store’s commitment to providing properly fitted, high-quality gear, combined with comprehensive instruction and a focus on building a community around dog sports, makes it an unparalleled resource in the region. Whether you're a beginner curious about canicross or an experienced enthusiast looking for specialized equipment, Jack and the Pack offers the expertise, products, and encouragement needed for safe and enjoyable adventures. By fostering active partnerships between dogs and their owners, and supporting a diverse and inclusive local business, Jack and the Pack truly enhances the vibrant pet-loving culture here in Minnesota, making it an essential visit for any adventurous dog owner.

Jack and the Pack

30 E 7th St Suite 220, St Paul, MN 55101, USA