2024 Top-Rated Nonprofit

RRUFF Rocklin Residents Unite For Fido

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Causes: Animal Services, Animals, Mental Health, Mental Health & Crisis Intervention, Mental Health Disorders, Military & Veterans Organizations, Veterans

Mission: Serving Disabled Veterans and the canine community

Community Stories

66 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

shirley.j.a Donor

Rating: 5

09/03/2024

I have been associated with RRUFF for over 3 years (my neighbor is currently a member of their Board. When he got involved, he shared with me their mission, and how they are helping disabled Veterans and First Responders in our area. He has also shared their monthly newsletter which I enjoy thoroughly. I have attended their annual Heroes & Hounds Hoorah Annual Event for the past 2 years; I look forward to attending again this October.

It is something special when people get together and volunteer their time and energy to support those who have given so much of themselves. Thank you RRUFF for giving back!

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General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/12/2023

My parents have never been favorites of taking me to Dog Parks. Apparently, some time in the past they had a problem with one of their canine partners and swore they would never go again. They recently moved into Sun City Lincoln Hills and one of their neighbors is on the Board of RRUFF Healing Heroes and told them they should check out the RRUFF Dog Park in Rocklin, CA. Well, they did and they (we) were very surprised how nice it was. It was clean, well maintained and seemed to have several regular visitors there when we arrived. I am a small little guy and was really worried I would not get along with other dogs. To my surprise it was wonderful. We are now going there on a regular basis. By the way, my name is San Lucas!

luciegirl General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/13/2024

This is the best dog park in the area, it has shade, it is well maintained it is very clean and for some reason always friendly dogs and dog owners are there. I never ever had a bad experience. It has fresh water for the dogs, enough garbage cans and tools to clean behind the dog’s poop. Toys to play. Benches for the owner to sit. We love it.

Althea Canines

Althea Canines Client Served

Rating: 5

08/12/2024

R.R.U.F.F. Healing Heroes has graciously granted funds to assist both Military Veterans and First Responders in our Service Dog program. We appreciate the excellent communication of the organizations governing board, their conscious effort in assuring that their mission is met through their funding efforts.

Tristan951

Tristan951 Board Member

Rating: 5

08/11/2024

As a Board Member of RRUFF, I have seen the tremendous dedication this organization has to our community, particularly through the Healing Heroes program, which supports our veterans in meaningful ways. The team's commitment to their mission and the positive impact they have on both people and pets is truly inspiring. RRUFF goes above and beyond, making a real difference every day.

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Board Member

Rating: 5

10/11/2023

RRUFF is a shining example of how a nonprofit can truly change lives. From creating an exceptional off-leash park to providing the funding needed for vital training for veterans with PTSD and their canine companions, their dedication to our community is awe-inspiring. The work they do spreads hope, happiness, and healing. Keep up the fantastic work!

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1

Shirley.J General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/10/2024

I visited the RRUFF Dog Park yesterday and was very pleased to see that the benches in the Special Needs area are both raised up to a suitable height. The volunteers who support this Dog Park take pride in keeping things up, and they respond to the requests of park users. Thank You RRUFF TEAM MEMBERSl

cstroope Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/10/2024

Ruff sponsors out local dog park and doggy play groups where I have brought both of my dogs to be socialized.
I’ve also witnessed the service dogs where healing heros supported their training.
What a wonderful organization

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Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/04/2023

I was honored to help serve at a benefit to support our troops with PTSD.
I also support events at the local dog park of which I’m so proud of. RUFF is an important part of my life and I’ve met many wonderful people through this organization.

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Victoria Bottini C. Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/01/2024

Since 2011 this nonprofit has become well-respected and well-known in the Greater Sacramento Region.
Since 2014 the Healing Heroes Program has provided service dog training at no cost to disabled veterans with PTSD. In 2023 first responders were added to the program. In 2024 the program has expanded to include funding other mental health- related programs that are designed to help in the recovery efforts of these brave men and women. RRUFF Healing Heroes deserves your support.

mske57 Board Member

Rating: 5

06/25/2024

As a veteran and a dog lover, I was looking for an opportunity to combine my interests in supporting vets and dogs. RRUFF fits the bill perfectly. It is a great organization that focuses time and fundraising on helping our veterans and first responders and is run thoughtfully and ethically.

woof24 Board Member

Rating: 5

06/04/2024

I am a new board member for RRUFF. I was looking for a new opportunity to serve a non-profit and found RRUFF. RRUFF has all the elements I was looking for. The cause to support Veterans with PTSD and First Responders with the same. A group of board members and volunteers that care so passionately and are sincere about helping these well-deserved individuals has moved me beyond words.

dargardner Board Member

Rating: 5

06/02/2024

I am a board member for RRUFF and this organization has given me so much as I try to give back. When I retired, I was looking for my new sense of purpose. RRUFF had all the elements I was looking for. The cause to support Veterans and First Responders with PTSD. A group of board members and volunteers that care so passionately about helping these individuals in need. This has been such a great experience for me and I look forward to continuing to support this great cause.
Darlene Gardner

imcarr2 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/11/2023

A Great organization that is giving back to those who really need it.

Jennydavidson General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/11/2023

My son is a disabled veteran. The important work being done at RUFF changes lives everyday. Our community is so fortunate to have this kind of nonprofit that really listens to and cares for our veterans. These incredible individuals served our country and protected us. It is up to our community to prioritize their wellbeing and serve and protect our veterans. RUFF does exactly that. Thank you. RUFF!

1

IBLucas General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/01/2023

Hello All: We recently visited the RRUFF Dog Park in Rocklin and must say how pleasantly surprised we were to see how well the park is maintained. Each of the three dog areas (Special Needs, Small Dogs, Large Dog) are clean - obviously park users assist in keeping everything tidy. In the Special Needs area, we noted one of the benches to be lower than ADA requirements; however on of the park user quickly commented that RRUFF personnel are taking steps to resolve the issue. The park user we spoke with was prompt to let us know the RRUFF personnel take action when things are brought to their attention. We really enjoyed our visit and will definitely return again soon.

djodar Board Member

Rating: 5

07/07/2023

This group has not only created the best dog park in the area, with 3 separate areas useful year round, they have also created an auxilliary function of raising funds for service dog training for veterans. They also help cover some of the veteran's veterinarians bills. This service has enabled many veterans suffering with PTSD to resume useful, happy lives.

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

09/09/2020

I've been a board member from the beginning. This dog park is one of the best, if not the best, in the area. Thanks to some wonderful volunteers it's kept very clean. The park has 3 separate areas for play; and can be used all year because of the good drainage. It also has Agility equipment in both the large and small dog areas. The Special Needs area is used for meet-up groups, training, and shy dogs. The volunteers for this park, as well as being very active in local functions, have expanded our scope and have provided funding for service dog training for veterans.

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1

Gunsmoke Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/06/2023

We have never been fond of taking our Boys to Dog Parks until we heard about the RRUFF Dog Park inside the Johnson-Springview Park in Rocklin, CA. Upon our arrival, we were immediately surprised at how clean it was. Other users were all conversing and showed us a nice welcome. Three areas for the dogs (Small, Bug, and those with Special Needs). Our boys played in the small area and played with others. The BEST EXPERIENCE ever in a Dog Park. We will be back!

1

amywolfe Client Served

Rating: 5

06/07/2023

RRUFF is an integral part of the Rocklin Community attending and supporting many events. Along with building and maintaining RRUFF dog park it allows residents to get outside and enjoy time with their dog; they even have a special needs area! RRUFF also supports disabled veterans with funding several classes a year for them to train their own service dog through 4 Paws 2 Freedom. Thank you RRUFF!!

1

Steven Barnett Client Served

Rating: 5

06/07/2023

Amazing organization! All the work Vicki and her crew do is always above and beyond. They are always out hustling and working to better lives of our dog friends and the other side helping our veteran and first responder community. Thanks for all you do guys!

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Client Served

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

My name is Steven Barnett. I first became involved with RRUFF Healing Heroes when they donated payment for the veteran service dog class I was in thru 4 Paws 2 Freedom at American River College so that no veteran would have to pay for there service dog training. I was blown away at their love and kindness. It didn't stop there though. I almost graduated with my first dog but we decided she wasn't going to make it because of fear issues. I was crushed, but a few months later RRUFF stepped up and not only helped me get my replacement puppy but totally donated the cost of Bear but also the cost of his neuter. Now Bear is 8 months old and he is becoming my service dog. Now I'm a trainer for 4 Paws 2 Freedom and a board member. Thru this I've become very close with the RRUFF staff who are amazing. They continue to inspire me daily and I love their work. 22 veteran suicides a day are just to many. One dog One veteran at a time. love you guys!!

cindydog Board Member

Rating: 5

10/03/2022

Seven years ago a friend suggested I might enjoy working with a nonprofit organization named RRUFF. I was interviewed and became a Board Member in 2017. Since then I have participated in the many events sponsored by RRUFF raising funds to support Service Dog training for Veterans with PTSD and other disabilities. I have also been fortunate enough to have participated in the graduation events of some of the Veterans and their Service Dogs that have been trained with the funds provided by RRUFF Healing Heroes program. In my opinion the services to our Veterans and the community provided by RRUFF and invaluable.

candiestroope General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/02/2022

I’ve seen first hand the good works of Ruff Healing heros. The support of the local dog park for all the citizens of Rocklin and their help to fund support dogs for out veterans. I’m proud to support this worthy charity

mymiacat Board Member

Rating: 5

10/02/2022

My experience on the RRUFF Board of Directors has enlightened me as to just how serious a problem Veterans are facing when they return from duty with PTSD and other disabling issues.
Raising money to support Service Dog Training for these Veterans has been and still is a priority for not only myself but the others involved with RRUFF Healing Heroes program.

Ray Blasquez

anniesdad General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/11/2021

Best Dog Park Ever! And they raise money to fund service dog training for disabled veterans with PTSD. This year they celebrate 10 years as a dog park and 7 years since the Healing Heroes Program started

2 Gary S

Gary S Board Member

Rating: 5

10/04/2021

I have just been appointed to the Board of Directors for this amazing organization and am looking forward to doing my part in serving those Veterans in our immediate area by working with our Team and the Community. To so many, having the companionship of a Dog, be it a Pet or Service Dog, can be a life changer.

In my experience, being a long time pet owner, this simple fact became a reality when my wife was diagnosed with cancer. It is so difficult for one to be by ones side 24x7; thusly, I turned this duty over to our Shih Tzu "Cabo". Believe me when I say, if it was not for him, I truly feel my wife would have walked away for the brutal treatments she had to go through for over 9-months. It was then that I knew, as a Military Veteran, I needed to become involved and helping others receive the benefit of having a Service Dog or Companion by their side as they worked through difficult situations in their life.

I am excited having this opportunity to assist others and pledge to do everything I can by making this happen for One Veteran & One Dog at a time.

Cabo and San Lucas (b/w) are our Guardian Angels!

Please join me in making a big difference to others through "RRUFF"!

Sincere Regards,
Gary Schloss

1

Daddy General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/01/2021

We've been going to the RRUFF Dog Park for several years. It is always clean and well maintained Our pooches have a great time socializing and so do we. Additionally, we have seen the service dog training that is done in the Special Needs Area and are impressed with the quality of the trainers and the veterans they work with.

1

Miahome Board Member

Rating: 5

09/24/2021

I am a RRUFF/Healing Heroes Board member. If you support our work please share with our community. The work our organization does to support our vets with mental and other disabilities is life changing. I believe that our non profit is well qualified for the Top-Rated list for 2021.

1

dmchinnock Donor

Rating: 5

09/17/2021

I am a disabled American veteran. I am blind and deaf on my left side, the left lateral aspect of my cerebellum is gone, and the left side of my brain stem is damaged. The result is disabilities with vision, hearing, mobility and balance. In 2010 I got a service dog to assist me. That restored a quality of life I lost in the service to my country. I have been involved with this non-profit since its foundation. I have trained with, helped with the training of veterans, and watched the Master Trainer create miracles with dogs and disabled veterans. This truly is a non-profit that gives to the community unconditionally.

1

dogparkfan General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/07/2021

A lot of dog parks seem to be just that -- a sort of park where you can run your dogs that is occasionally cleaned up. RUFF goes far beyond being a Fantastic Dog Park. They also offer adoption days, and dog training -- including good citizen training -- and support veterans with their companion dogs. And they have an agility course, so dogs and their owners can do more than stand around or sniff each other or chase balls. RUFF is a huge asset to the community and it helps create community that goes far beyond the confines of the "park." This is a truly Great Nonprofit!!

1

ckolesar Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

08/30/2021

This year it was honor to give a short talk about an Air Force veteran Silver Star recipients. RRUFF knew the man from his countless visits to their park.
They offered a place for his family to attend his Silver Star quilt from a national organization.
With family and dogs in attendance he once again lived his heroism in a selfless act during the Vietnam War.

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Client Served

Rating: 5

08/12/2020

I have had the honor of working with RRUFF while a member of American Legion Post 620, Rocklin CA.
We’ve shared fundraising efforts and attended each other’s events to encourage community involvement with our mission.

RRUFF has graciously solicited speakers and expositions to foster the dog/human connection at our various events.

Veterans seem to gain most by their tireless efforts. I know their work reaches farther. A safe and clean place for our community pets.

Their reach and relationship with other nonprofits, coordinating a common cause takes time and commitment only the best can attain.

Charles M Kolesar
Commander
AL Post 620

1

danbo Board Member

Rating: 5

08/16/2021

RRUFF nonprofit is a proud place to be part of. Teaming up with other members to come up with creative ideas to promote this organization and enhance the park is very satisfying. Knowing that the ultimate goal is to raise money to provide service dogs for our brave veterans makes it very rewarding.

Dan Murphy

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Board Member

Rating: 5

08/06/2019

RRUFF is a wonderful place to be involved with! I started as a volunteer being in charge of weekend maintenance at the park. I later became a board member and enjoy sharing my ideas with the group. Interacting with the group is fun and rewarding!


1

Baldwinjamiel Client Served

Rating: 5

09/22/2020

I am a disabled veteran who's disabilities are not visible. In October of 2018, "Quigley" and I began our journey together in service dog training after being sponsored by RRUFF through 4 Paws 2 Freedom. Quigley successfully completed her training in March 2019 and is now a vital component to my wellbeing, as she is now my medical alert and service dog. Without her, my daily activities would be so much more difficult. This past February, Quigley became deathly ill with complete liver failure. Her medical bills became so great, I was facing a decision no pet owner wants to ever make. RRUFF stepped up and assisted me with those veterinary bills. I am DEEPLY thankful to RRUFF for everything they have given to Quigley and me. I highly recommend them as one of THE BEST non-profits around.

RRUFF, thank you from the absolute bottom of Quigley's and my hearts!!! ❤❤❤

1

Scrapper General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/17/2020

We love this dog park. There are 3 separate areas- Small, Large & Special Needs. Special needs area is for people and dogs that are new to the park and want to be in a fun, safe area until they are comfortable going into the other areas. We gather twice a week for a Meet & Greet. Also, this area is used for Service Dog Training for veterans with PTSD; Rescue groups have adoption days ; Guide Dogs for the Blind Puppy Raisers and Canine Companions for Independence hold puppy raiser classes; and, people can reserve it at no cost for doggie parties. This dog park is open 365 days a year - doesn't flood or get muddy. It's the 2nd Best Place on Earth

1

4LEC Board Member

Rating: 5

09/10/2020

About 5 years ago I met the founder of RRUFF. I became interested in the concept of Healing Heroes whic is to help veterans with PTSD, TBI and other conditions resulting from their service to our country. Scholarships for Service Dog training for vets and their dogs being one of them. At the time I was unaware of the dog park which was started by RRUFF.

Since that time I have become involved in many of the activities at the dog park. The park is extremely well maintained with special areas for big dogs, little dogs, shy dogs and an area for Special Needs. There are various activities/classes held in the Special Needs area to the benefit of many.

I've been a member of the Board for several years and it is a very rewarding part of my retirement.

Lolly Cassara

1

4REB Board Member

Rating: 5

09/10/2020

Sometime ago I was introduced to the founder of RRUFF which is a nonprofit organization that started the Rocklin Springview Dog Park and a program called Healing Heroes. Heroes deals with returning veterans with PTSD, TBI, and other conditions. Fundraising for Scholarships for Service Dog training for these vets is the primary function of Healing Heroes.

I have served on the RRUFF Board for a couple of years and have participated in several activities in connection with the dog park and HH. One of the most rewarding events is the graduation from Service Dog training and the obvious connection between the dog and the veteran.

Ray Blasques

BettyRobertson Board Member

Rating: 5

09/08/2020

I have been part of RRUFF and and Healing Heroes since inception in 2010. Every year they amaze me by what can be accomplished by a small group of dedicated and passionate volunteers. From creating the finest dog park in the greater Sacramento Area to implementing the Healing Heroes Program for veterans with Post Traumatic Stress and other invisible disabilities, RRUFF has provided our communities with programs and services above and beyond what their capabilities should be. I am proud to continue serving on the board of directors of this amazing nonprofit. Serving disabled veterans and the canine community - 1 Veteran & 1 Dog at a time.

Mike54 Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/07/2020

This is a non-profit that was responsible for getting the city to put in a dog park. They had to agree to maintain the dog park after it was installed. They have done so for 8 years now. This non-profit also obtains funds to sponsor a, 'Healing Heroes' program that provides service dog training for disabled veterans and first responders. The dog park is well kept by this group, and dog training takes place at the dog park's, Special Needs enclosure.

Great dog park, great administration.

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General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

02/27/2020

My name is Mike. I am a disabled veteran. In 2010 I needed to get a service dog trained to assist me with a Traumatic Brain Injury. I was able to get a white Standard Poodle, named Cappy, through the outreach of St. Francis Episcopal Church in Fair Oaks CA. This dog and I then trained for 3 years. He became a guide dog that assisted me with vision, hearing, mobility and balance for the next 5 years. Wherever I went, he went. He gave unconditionally, and never complained, or said, 'No'. He was the best buddy a guy could have.

Yesterday I took him to the Veterinary Clinic, where I held his paw while he was put down. It was the hardest emotional experience I have had. While I believe that energy cannot be destroyed, that it is eternal, and that includes life energy, I miss it being in his body. I believe that the body is temporary, and only holds the life energy to allow for communication. Cappy left his temporary body and has moved over the Rainbow Bridge. He is free of the pain and the limitations that overcame him, but still I miss him.

The RRUFF Healing Heroes held a, 'Say Goodbye to Cappy' event on Saturday. A lot of his friends and their dogs showed up. This included Scully, from when he and Cappy were in the 'Love on a Leash' therapy dog group visiting seniors in assisted care facilities, to his last brother, Hans. I cannot say enough about the support we received from this group.

Cappy you a free. I love you. Find your brother Ryker and the 2 of you run with the wind.

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liramc Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/11/2020

I love this nonprofit. Not only do they take care of the Rocklin dog park, but they raise money to be able to train service dogs for veterans.

elcamino Board Member

Rating: 5

10/27/2019

Being a Board Member on this board has been one of the most rewarding experiences I've had being a volunteer. The number of our Vets that come home with PTSD or TBI or other serious war related problems is very disturbing.

Seeing the results of the program that RRUFF provides by giving scholarships to Vets to go through "Service Dog" training with their dog/companion is truly a heart warming experience. I can't think of a better non profit orgainization.

Elizabeth M.9 Client Served

Rating: 4

10/24/2019

I have attended their dog park and have done a Facebook birthday fund raiser to help out. People are friendly and they help with Healing Heroes also. I also have them as my Amazon smile organization. They care and do great work.

2

bottiniv Board Member

Rating: 5

10/10/2019

Having worked as a board member and volunteer of this nonprofit since the beginning 9 years ago, they have grown significantly and are now embarking on a wonderful partnership with another nonprofit, Allegiant Giving. This partnership will allow expansion of the Healing Heroes program to include veterinary expense coverage for dogs in the program, stress mitigation classes for first responders, funding for dog acquisition for veterans and more. Very proud to be associated with this organization. The dog in this picture is the very first dog to graduate with his person, Eric. They are now living the good life in Washington State as you can see.

3

Doug M.2 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/01/2019

This is such an amazing and caring organization! They serve as the voice for so many disabled American Veterans through their scholarship fundraising for Service Dog training. The dog park itself is a wonderful and safe place to go out and take your dog.

2

Lolly C. Board Member

Rating: 5

08/22/2019

It has been about 3 years now and I am continually amazed at the support RRUFF provides to our veterans. By giving vets who suffer from PTSD, and other conditions associated with their service, scholarships to use towards service dog training is life changing and sometimes life saving. This should certainly be a Top-Rated nonprofit.

2

dogtopia Donor

Rating: 5

08/02/2019

Fantastic park with an amazing Voard that cares about its community!

3

HavenDogRescue General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/02/2019

We love this organization. It is a huge benefit to the local community and beyond.

2

Stacey Clark H. Donor

Rating: 5

06/05/2019

RRUFF Healing Heroes has helped change the lives of many of our nation's warriors who are living with PTSD by training service dogs to live alongside these heroes. The connection that veterans have to their service dog is truly remarkable and often helps to bring veterans out of a place of desperation and despair. I truly believe that RRUFF Healing Heroes is saving veteran's lives. Thank you to RRUFF for all you do - we salute you.

1

touloukian Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/03/2019

This organization is amazing, offering a wonderful environment for dogs of all kinds. They even cater to Service Dogs and their needs, which are very important. They have an area where we can exercise our dogs and know that they are safe from any other pets.... considering they save our lives on a regular basis.... this is VERY important. The dog park is always clean, safe and fun. Everyone follows the rules and goes the extra mile.... LOVE LOVE LOVE this place....

2

combatkellie Board Member

Rating: 5

11/01/2018

I have been active with RRUFF for almost 10 years. I feel that this non-profit is more than a dog park but a catalyst for changing the lives of US Veterans suffering from PTSD, with our Healing Heroes Program. As a Veteran myself and also a person who suffers daily with PTSD, I personally know how damaging the disease is. The fears, the triggers, the haunting memories, being afraid, being alone as NO ONE UNDERSTANDS (they try but it is just not possible) & the crippling effect it can cause without notice.

RRUFF's Healing Heroes program is one that I believe in and stand behind with all of my heart. To be able to have a program that can ease fears, decrease the effect of triggers, help with the crippling isolation and allow for the light to shine again, is amazing! Many Veterans are in need of help and don't know how to obtain or train a service dog. Our program not only offers the training for the Veteran & the dog, but if they don't have a dog we can help with purchasing one or adopting one. The best thing about the whole program.....it is FREE to the Veteran!

I believe in RRUFF and I am so happy to be apart of such a wonderful non-profit.

1

Writer Board Member

Rating: 5

10/30/2018

As one of the founding members of RRUFF, Rocklin Residents Unite for Fido, I have been actively involved in the development of our Healing Heroes program. We provide funding for service dog training classes for disabled veterans. Since 2014, over 50 veterans have benefited from this program. We help save lives --one vet and one dog at a time.

2

Beth P.4 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

My 2 dogs love this dog park the people during the hours we go are freindly and dogs are friendly. My husband likes throwing balls for all the dogs. Also nice trail to hike.

2

TerryandShasta Client Served

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

RRUFF does so much for the community. Not only are they a fabulous dog park for all dogs, they have a special needs dog park for working dogs (which I really appreciate because I have a service dog)! The dog park is always clean and well maintained.

But RRUFF also offers community outreach through their Healing Heroes Program. They go out into the community and educate the public about the benefits service dogs can offer to our wounded veterans. Then (because they are amazing) they go one step further and fundraise to support 4 Paws 2 Freedom, another local nonprofit that provides service dog training to veterans with PTSD.

The RRUFF organization far exceeds the expectations for a dog park. They put their heart and soul into their work and I can't say enough good things about them!

3

MaizieC General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/29/2018

The RRUFF Dog Park in Rocklin is the best in the entire region. It is filled with large oak trees, lots of benches, separate large & small dog areas. There is also a separate fenced area for service dog training, rescue group adoption days, and parties for pooches. Best of all, this dog park never floods so it is open all year round. Located inside one of Rocklin's largest and best parks, there are many activities for the entire family - including disc golf

3

Writer Board Member

Rating: 5

10/26/2018

I am currently on the Board of Directors of RRUFF. I have been involved for almost
a year now. I have passion for dogs and believe that our Healing Heroes program is saving lives of veterans one dog at a time. The connection of dog and veteran is truly an amazing thing to witness. I am also thankful for the relationships that have been created through my volunteerism with our Dog park as well. Being part of RRUFF has been a very gratifying experience.

2 halc

halc Board Member

Rating: 5

10/26/2018

I am the co-founder of RRUFF. Being able to give back to those who have served our country is something I am grateful I can participate in. My older brother died in WWII on the shores of Italy. This is my small way of honoring his service and sacrifice. Hal C.

2

Writer Board Member

Rating: 5

10/25/2018

When I retired I wondered what I would do with all of my time. Fortunately for me, I became involved with Rocklin Residents Unite for Fido. The organization is dedicated to providing scholarships to Veterans with PTSD and other disabilities related to their service to our country for Service Dog training. I've have personally witnessed the beginning of this venture with a Veteran who was fearful of leaving his home to a Veteran and his service dog (after 6 months of training) return to college. Most of us are unaware of how many Veterans return with serious issues adjusting back into society. It is heart warming to see that the contact with an animal can ease the fear and allow a return to somewhat of a normal life.

2

Solli Board Member

Rating: 5

10/25/2018

RRUFF/Healing Heroes, a 100% volunteer Nonprofit, has done so much to help Veterans with invisible disabilities. I am very fortunate to be part of this great organization. And designing and building a fabulous dog park as well.

3

VickiC Board Member

Rating: 5

10/20/2018

Founded in 2010 this nonprofit, which originally established Rocklin's first off-leash dog park, has now expanded. The primary mission of RRUFF is to serve disabled veterans and the canine community through it's Healing Heroes Program.
22 veterans die by suicide every day. RRUFF Healing Heroes exists for the sole purpose of being a catalyst for hope and change. We do this 1 veteran &1 dog at a time by funding service dog training for disabled American Veterans with PTSD and other invisible disabilities.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur after you have been through a trauma. A trauma is a shocking and dangerous event that you see or that happens to you. During this type of event, you think that your life or others' lives are in danger. When you are in the military, you may see combat. You may have been on missions that exposed you to horrible and life-threatening experiences. These types of events can lead to PTSD. Other factors in a combat situation can add more stress to an already stressful situation. This may contribute to PTSD and other mental health problems. These factors include what you do in the war, the politics around the war, where the war is fought, and the type of enemy you face. Another cause of PTSD in the military can be Military Sexual Trauma (MST). This is any sexual harassment or sexual assault that occurs while you are in the military. MST can happen to both men and women and can occur during peacetime, training, or war.
One in every five American Veterans are diagnosed with PTSD and 22 Veterans die by suicide every day. These are saddening statistics that haunt our nation. Is there something that can be done to help these Veterans?
RRUFF-Dog Park inside Johnson-Springview park, the only off-leash dog park in Rocklin, has taken a stand to help our Veterans. RRUFF has created a program to fund service dog training for American Veterans suffering from PTSD, MST and other invisible disabilities. The “Healing Heroes” program reaches out to veterans within our community to help them heal through the bond they share with their dog. Healing Heroes provides funding for service dog training classes at Pet Food Express, Roseville; funds group service dog training classes for American Veterans enrolled at American River College and recently discharged veterans at Beale Air Force Base. Other training locations are in Rancho Cordova and Placerville. All classes are taught by 4Paws2Freedom service dog trainers under the guidance of master trainer, Terry Sandhoff.
RRUFF completed construction of the “Special Needs Area” inside the dog park in 2014 for the purpose of providing an outdoor site for service dog training. 4Paws2Freedom uses the area for outdoor veteran service dog training classes in addition to regular indoor classes. This site is also available to other service dog training groups in addition to veteran’s groups. Currently Guide Dogs for the Blind and Canine Companions for Independence use the site for their Puppy Raiser classes, all at no cost to them. Local rescue groups such as Haven Dog Rescue use the area for Adoption Days. Local dog meet-up groups like Sacramento/Placer County Bulldogs have monthly gatherings.
Did you know? Sierra Ranch Veterinary Clinic & Pet Rehabilitation Center is a long-time supporter to the Healing Heroes program. They not only offer financial assistance to the program, but also offer discounted veterinary services. They believe in giving back to our community and feel strongly about supporting area rescue groups, the Placer SPCA and local nonprofits. Additionally, Allegiant Giving is partnering with Healing Heroes with the intent of helping us expand our program to include more veterans and offer more services expand our program to include more veterans and offer more services beyond training. The Honor Group provides funding to Healing Heroes to purchase dogs for veterans in the program as needs arise.
How can you help? Making A Donation- no matter the size- helps fund a full one- year class for a Veteran and their dog in need of service dog training. Your 100% tax-deductible donation stays within the community and helps local Disabled American Veterans suffering with PTSD, MST and other invisible disabilities. Sierra Ranch Veterinary Clinic & Pet Rehabilitation Center will match your donation up to $10,000!
To make a donation or to learn more, visit the Healing Heroes website http://rruffhealingheroes.org/ or call, Victoria Curtis 916.435.0196 c: 415.806.2778

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