In a quiet corner of Oconto, Wisconsin, something joyful and unusual rolls down the road each morning: a school bus painted with paw prints, filled to the brim with excited dogs, heading off on their day’s great adventure.

What might look like a scene from a feel-good movie is, in fact, the day-to-day life of K9 Konvoy, a real doggy day care service started by Hope Mehlberg, a woman whose passion for pups has transformed not just a vehicle, but countless canine lives.

The story of K9 Konvoy isn’t one you’d expect to begin with a school bus. Mehlberg’s journey started in 2021, when she took her own dogs — and eventually her neighbor’s dog Zeppelin, whom she rescued after a serious accident — for walks around town.

Initially, walking dogs was a way to get fresh air, soothe stress, and simply enjoy time with her pets. But as more local dog owners learned about her gentle approach and reliable care, her routine grew into something bigger.

For nearly two years, Mehlberg balanced dog-walking with a traditional job, all while word of mouth spread among her neighbors. By 2023, with demand for her canine care increasing, she made a bold decision: she left her job to follow her heart and make K9 Konvoy her full-time work.

Around the same time, she purchased an old school bus — the very one that would become the heart and wheels of her new venture.



The bus itself is more than just a vehicle. It’s a mobile symbol of joy for dozens of dogs and their owners alike. Each weekday, around 8 a.m., Mehlberg climbs aboard, greets her crew of tail-wagging passengers — sometimes about 24 dogs in a single route — and sets off to pick up her furry clients from the community.

The trip isn’t just transportation; it’s an adventure in itself. Many of the pups seem to know exactly what’s coming, hopping on board with bright eyes and eager tails.

Once loaded, the bus makes its way to a three-acre private dog park on Mehlberg’s family property. This fenced-in space is designed for play and exploration: toys are scattered across the grass, tunnels invite dashes of speed, and swings and tires punctuate the landscape.

For many dogs, the difference between being cooped up at home awaiting their owner’s return and spending a day running, sniffing, and socializing with others is transformative.

Mehlberg’s path to K9 Konvoy wasn’t just a business decision — it was a deeply personal one. She has shared that she struggled with infertility, a challenge that brought emotional lows into her life. In those difficult moments, the companionship, unconditional affection, and laugh-out-loud antics of dogs offered her comfort and meaning.

By building a business around something she loves, she didn’t just help dogs; she helped herself find joy and purpose again.

Today, K9 Konvoy’s roster has grown to about 65 dogs, each with a story, a personality, and a place in Mehlberg’s daily routine. The variety of breeds and temperaments hasn’t slowed her down; instead, it highlights one of the beautiful aspects of her work: creating a community where dogs can be dogs.

Whether they’re a tiny terrier who loves to zoom across the grass, a mellow senior dog enjoying sniffing every corner, or a goofy pup who wants to romp with everyone, each dog finds their way to joy at the park.



The social aspect of K9 Konvoy is part of its charm. Owners and admirers often recognize the pawprint-covered bus as it makes its rounds — a scene that evokes laughter and admiration wherever it goes.

Mehlberg’s love for her work is evident: she doesn’t just provide a service to dog owners who are working long days; she fosters an environment where dogs thrive, learn social skills, and burn off energy in a safe, loving space.

And while the bus may draw attention, it’s the playtime at the park that makes the real difference in these dogs’ lives. Running free with companions, rolling in the grass, chasing toys, and lounging in the sun — these are experiences many housebound dogs rarely enjoy.

Alongside that physical activity comes mental stimulation, socialization, and, for many owners, peace of mind knowing their pets are cared for while they’re at work or handling daily responsibilities.

K9 Konvoy isn’t just about filling a niche in pet care; it reflects a larger trend of creative, compassionate services that place animals’ well-being at the center. It joins other similar ventures seen in North America and beyond, where dogs riding in customized buses to adventure or daycare have become joyful viral content and beloved local landmarks.

In a world where daily routines can feel repetitive, K9 Konvoy’s dog bus brings bursts of happiness — for dogs and people alike.

It’s a reminder that sometimes the best ideas come from simple beginnings: a walk with a dog on a sunny afternoon, the laughter sparked by a wagging tail, and the decision to follow your heart. For Mehlberg and the furry passengers on her pawprint bus, each day truly is an adventure.