The People of Ruff Start Rescue

How do animals inspire you?

Animals are inspiring because of their resilience. No matter the hardships they face, they show unconditional love and kindness. Their ability to trust and connect with others, despite past trauma or adversity, is truly remarkable. Animals bring comfort, healing, and joy into our lives in ways that words can hardly express. Each one is unique, with its personality, quirks, and charm, and that makes every connection so special. They remind us to be present, to love, and to appreciate the little things.

What would you tell someone considering volunteering for Ruff Start? 

Do it! There is something for everyone at Ruff Start Rescue, whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, or prefer in-person opportunities or remote roles. One of my favorite things about RSR, besides the animals, is the people. I’ve met so many amazing volunteers, fosters, donors, and staff members over the years. We always strive to make volunteering a positive and fun experience, and we’re here to support you every step of the way so you feel confident and comfortable.

One volunteering story that always warms my heart involves my son. Jett was born deaf in his left ear, so specialists have been visiting us since he was an infant. One of the physical therapists who used to come to our home was a Ruff Start adopter. When she told me she was retiring, I encouraged her to volunteer with us, and she did! She now helps with transports and has even gotten her husband involved. She often tells me how much joy it brings her.

“Animals bring comfort, healing, and joy into our lives in ways that words can hardly express.”

Sharing the experience of volunteering with others and seeing how it enriches their lives is incredibly rewarding. If you’re thinking about getting involved, I promise you won’t regret it.

Does animal love run in your family? 

Absolutely! My husband is an animal lover — his compassion for animals is amazing. Even when he’s on the fence with fostering a particular animal, it’s him who ends up baby-talking and cuddling with them on the couch. It’s been fun raising our children with Ruff Start in their lives. They’ve grown up fostering, volunteering, and attending education events, and they proudly wear their Ruff Start gear to school. They’re always asking when we can foster again.

I also grew up surrounded by animals, and many of my favorite childhood memories involve my pets. Today, our extended family is full of rescue advocates. We have three Ruff Start animals in our home, my brothers-in-laws have two Ruff Start dogs, my father-in-law has a Ruff Start dog, and my sister-in-law has a rescue as well. Love for animals truly runs deep in our family.

Please tell us about your pets and/or fosters.

We have Penny, our sweet Texas street dog. She came to us as a puppy and is now about two years old. According to her DNA test, she’s a mix of pit bull, poodle, and terrier. Penny is a loving, laid-back lady and the perfect fit for our family.

Ruby is another rescue from Texas, and I’ve always wanted to get her DNA tested too. I met her during a transport and felt an instant connection. Since she wasn’t already spoken for as a foster-to-adopt, I reached out to her foster, and she kindly allowed us to move forward with adoption. Ruby is incredibly sweet and a little mischievous and she and Penny have become the best of friends.

Most recently, we adopted Carl the cat, which our kids have nicknamed “Cute Carl.” He came to us through what we like to call the “cat distribution system” — he simply showed up at our house. He had an upper respiratory infection, missing fur across his back, and infected teeth broken off at the gums. We had to earn his trust, but now he loves all of us, including the kids. He’s truly the best!

Want to get involved with Ruff Start Rescue? Learn more about volunteering, fostering, adopting or donating to Ruff Start. Or visit our careers page to learn about job opportunities.