From Stray Dog to Comfort Dog: Meet Dunkin, Bloomington’s First Comfort Dog
At Ruff Start Rescue, we’ve seen firsthand the remarkable potential that lies within every rescue animal. And Dunkin is a shining example of what love, patience, and opportunity can do.
Back in April, our team met Dunkin while out with street feeders in Texas—people who make it their mission to buy food and go out into the streets to care for stray and homeless animals. These animals face a harsh reality every day: unpredictable meals, unsafe environments, and the constant struggle to survive. Street feeders are a lifeline, showing kindness and care to animals who might otherwise go hungry, but the challenges these dogs endure are still immense. Dunkin was just one of many, surviving day-to-day in this uncertain world. Yet even in that difficult life, his calm, gentle nature shone through. There was something about him that told us he was meant for more—a life full of love, guidance, and purpose.
Days after the first meeting, Dunkin walked right up to a spay/neuter clinic, as if he instinctively knew that his life was about to change. That moment marked the beginning of an incredible journey, one made possible through our Lone Star to North Star Rescue Relief Program, which helps dogs like Dunkin travel safely from Texas to Minnesota to find hope, care, and a new home.
Now in Minnesota, Dunkin is training to become the Bloomington Police Department’s first community comfort dog. Under the guidance of Minnesota Canine Consulting, he’s learning everything from basic obedience to navigating busy public spaces with confidence and calm. Dunkin’s natural temperament and gentle disposition make him the perfect candidate for this special role, where he’ll provide comfort and support to the community in times of stress or need.
Off duty, Dunkin has already found his loving home with his handler, Officer Daniels, and his family. He’s enjoying playtime, snuggles, and the simple joys of home life, soaking in every moment of love and attention. It’s hard to imagine now that just months ago, he was wandering the streets, unsure of where his next meal or safe place would come from.
Dunkin’s story is a powerful reminder that rescue dogs carry limitless potential. With care, training, and the chance to thrive, a dog who once had nothing can go on to touch countless lives. From the streets of Texas to a life of service in Minnesota, Dunkin is proof that every dog deserves a second chance—and that second chance can lead to something extraordinary.
Follow along as Dunkin continues his training and prepares to bring comfort, connection, and hope to the Bloomington community. His journey has only just begun, but one thing is clear: Dunkin is ready to make the world a little brighter, one wag at a time.
Posted: November 12, 2025 by Kelli Hanson
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The People of Ruff Start Rescue
The people of RSR: Emily S.
Emily is the Executive Assistant at Ruff Start Rescue, supporting Executive Director Azure Davis since 2023. Before joining the team, she worked in the Autopsy Lab at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.
Although moving to Ruff Start was a career shift, her love of animals has always been clear. While living in Rochester she volunteered and served on the Board of Directors for Paws and Claws Humane Society. When she returned to school in 2020 for a Master of Nonprofit Management degree, nearly every assignment she submitted focused on animal welfare. Her passion was hard to miss.
Emily lives with her husband, Luke, and her two beloved Ruff Starters: Frankenstein, an American Bully who was adopted from Texas as part of Ruff’s Start’s Lone Star to North Star Rescue Relief Program, and Mina, an itty-bitty pittie mix who came from a local impound partner.
We asked Emily to tell us more about her experience with rescue and Ruff Start in this interview.
What does a typical day look like?
My days aren’t exactly typical. I support Azure with daily operations and projects, helping keep things organized and on track. My work spans everything from media segments and donor relations to board support and just about everything in between.
What is your favorite part of working at Ruff Start?
The animals, of course. But along with that comes the community. The people, the passion for animals, and the deep connections I’ve made working toward a shared goal make Ruff Start feel like a family.
What inspired you to start working for animal rescue?
My husband and I adopted our first dog, Porter, from Animal Allies in Duluth in August 2015. We were just a couple of college kids figuring out the whole “adulting” thing. I’ve always loved animals, but something shifted the day we visited that shelter. As soon as we walked into the kennel room, I was filled with emotion. Then I saw him. Porter only had one eye, but the moment we locked eye/s, something clicked. A spark ignited, and I knew two things instantly: first, I had just met my soul dog, and second, animal rescue wasn’t just something I cared
about, it was going to shape the rest of my life.
To this day, I credit my beloved Porter for putting me on this path. His silly little grin and that single eye staring up at me changed everything. I wouldn’t be at Ruff Start if it weren’t for him, and I’ll be forever grateful.
Was there a moment when you realized, “This is the work I was meant to do?”
I have these moments all the time, the ones that remind me exactly why I do this work. It happens when the transport van pulls up and we welcome 20+ dogs into the first day of their new life. I feel it when cuddling a little puppy who’s just come out of surgery and needs some extra comfort. And sometimes, it’s in the unexpected chaos, like when Azure says, “We’re going to rescue some pheasants, grab the net!” I truly love this work and feel incredibly lucky to be part of the Ruff Start Rescue world.
Do you have a funny or heartwarming Ruff Start animal story?
My husband and I signed up to foster-to-adopt Frankenstein, who was coming up from Texas last fall. We had recently lost our dog Porter, and while our hearts were still heavy with grief, we knew we wanted to open them again, especially to another little bully in need. When I walked into the office on transport day, it didn’t take long to find our guy. I just followed the unmistakable warthog-like noises coming from one of the kennel runs. The moment I saw him, I knew instantly that the little chaos gremlin was meant for us. As I went to crate him to bring him home, a volunteer looked at me and said, “Good luck with that one!” right as he spun in circles and bounced off the walls like a cartoon character. That day, we got to bring home the sweetest little monster.
Frankenstein was once inseparable from his sister, Petunia, who has since crossed the Rainbow Bridge. These days, he’s found a new best friend in his little sister, Mina. Since joining our family in August, Mina has filled our days with laughter. Her playful antics, including her signature “Mina Beana Ballerina” moves, keep us on our toes, and we feel so lucky to have added her to the pack.
Frankenstein and Mina are everything we hoped for and more, and have certainly earned their titles as “my little heart healers.” Their brother and sister, Porter and Petunia, are a big part of why rescuing is so important to our family. We carry their love and legacy with us in every animal we welcome home.
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.
Posted: September 17, 2025 by Kelli Hanson
Ruff Start Rescue in the News
Ruff Start Rescue is making headlines! From incredible rescue stories to community partnerships, local and national media outlets are sharing the impact we’re making for animals in need.
We’ve gathered these articles in one place so you can easily see what others are saying about our work. Visit our In the News page to explore recent stories featuring Ruff Start Rescue and learn more about how together, we’re changing lives every day.
Posted: September 9, 2025 by Kelli Hanson
From Stray Dog to Comfort Dog: Meet Dunkin, Bloomington’s First Comfort Dog
From Stray Dog to Comfort Dog: Meet Dunkin, Bloomington’s First Comfort Dog
At Ruff Start Rescue, we’ve seen firsthand the remarkable potential that lies within every rescue animal. And Dunkin is a shining example of what love, patience, and opportunity can do.
Back in April, our team met Dunkin while out with street feeders in Texas—people who make it their mission to buy food and go out into the streets to care for stray and homeless animals. These animals face a harsh reality every day: unpredictable meals, unsafe environments, and the constant struggle to survive. Street feeders are a lifeline, showing kindness and care to animals who might otherwise go hungry, but the challenges these dogs endure are still immense. Dunkin was just one of many, surviving day-to-day in this uncertain world. Yet even in that difficult life, his calm, gentle nature shone through. There was something about him that told us he was meant for more—a life full of love, guidance, and purpose.
Days after the first meeting, Dunkin walked right up to a spay/neuter clinic, as if he instinctively knew that his life was about to change. That moment marked the beginning of an incredible journey, one made possible through our Lone Star to North Star Rescue Relief Program, which helps dogs like Dunkin travel safely from Texas to Minnesota to find hope, care, and a new home.
Now in Minnesota, Dunkin is training to become the Bloomington Police Department’s first community comfort dog. Under the guidance of Minnesota Canine Consulting, he’s learning everything from basic obedience to navigating busy public spaces with confidence and calm. Dunkin’s natural temperament and gentle disposition make him the perfect candidate for this special role, where he’ll provide comfort and support to the community in times of stress or need.
Off duty, Dunkin has already found his loving home with his handler, Officer Daniels, and his family. He’s enjoying playtime, snuggles, and the simple joys of home life, soaking in every moment of love and attention. It’s hard to imagine now that just months ago, he was wandering the streets, unsure of where his next meal or safe place would come from.
Dunkin’s story is a powerful reminder that rescue dogs carry limitless potential. With care, training, and the chance to thrive, a dog who once had nothing can go on to touch countless lives. From the streets of Texas to a life of service in Minnesota, Dunkin is proof that every dog deserves a second chance—and that second chance can lead to something extraordinary.
Follow along as Dunkin continues his training and prepares to bring comfort, connection, and hope to the Bloomington community. His journey has only just begun, but one thing is clear: Dunkin is ready to make the world a little brighter, one wag at a time.
Posted: August 6, 2025 by Kelli Hanson
The People of Ruff Start Rescue
The people of Ruff Start: Sammie B.
Samantha (Sammie) is the Director of Operations at Ruff Start Rescue, a position she has held for the past five years. She brings a hands-on, compassionate approach to her work and a lifelong passion for animal advocacy. Sammie’s leadership and operational expertise have helped drive the rescue’s growth and effectiveness.
Sammie has deep roots in animal welfare. She began fostering in 2008 and became involved with Ruff Start Rescue in its earliest days in 2010. Over the years, she has served in a variety of Ruff Start roles, including volunteering as a Placement Coordinator, Volunteer Coordinator, Board Secretary and other positions.
Sammie married her high school sweetheart and is the proud mom of three young children. Together they enjoy an active lifestyle filled with outdoor adventures, boating, gardening, and family time.
What does a typical day as Director of Operations look like?
A typical day involves wearing many hats and adapting to constant change. After going through emails, much of my time is spent organizing and managing projects, which often involves conducting research and gathering information to inform decisions that best support the organization. I also support staff with issues they encounter.
My work includes employee engagement, strategic growth, organizational management, and ensuring compliance with current laws and alignment with best practices. When something goes wrong on a larger scale, I often help troubleshoot and help equip others to handle similar challenges in the future —always with an eye toward improving processes.
One memorable example of this unpredictability happened on a surgery day. Just as fosters were arriving, the power went out. Our backup generator wasn’t working, so I had to quickly teach myself how to troubleshoot and restart it. To top it off, that morning also happened to be our new Practice Manager’s interview. Thankfully, we were able to perform surgeries that day and complete the interview. It was a great example of how no two days are ever the same.
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.
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.
Posted: June 10, 2025 by Kelli Hanson
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