Ruffwear of Bend, OR has entered a two-year partnership that calls for providing financial and in-kind product suport, as well as adoption promotions, to Best Friends Animal Society. 

Ruffwear chose Best Friends Animal Society because its is the only national animal welfare organization dedicated exclusively to ending the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters. The organization runs the nation's largest no-kill companion animal sanctuary, as well as lifesaving programs in partnership with rescue groups and shelters across the country. Since its founding in 1984, Best Friends has helped reduce the number of animals killed in American shelters from 17 million per year to about 4 million.

Over the course of the partnership, Ruffwear will contribute $50,000 in financial support to cover adoption and travel fees for dogs adopted from Best Friends’ sanctuary in Kanab, UT, to their new homes anywhere in the US (travel covered to the closest major airport). An additional $64,000 in in-kind product will ensure each adopted dog will go to his/her forever home with a new Ruffwear Hoopie Collar and Flat Out Leash.

“We are grateful to our partners at Ruffwear for helping more dogs get into forever homes,” said Eric Rayvid, public relations director, Best Friends Animal Society. “We all need to do our part to find a home for every dog we can and we’re thrilled that our partners at Ruffwear are helping to Save Them All.”

“Raising awareness of and promoting dog adoption is a natural fit for Ruffwear,” said Will Blount, Ruffwear president. “The companionship, excitement, and curiosity of dogs make for the perfect trail mates as we venture into the outdoors. In partnering with Best Friends, we are excited to introduce Ruffwear fans to the active, adoptable dogs at the Best Friends Sanctuary in Southern Utah. We are proud to join forces with such an incredible organization and feel that through our partnership, we can truly make a impact for many dogs and their future human companions for a lifetime of adventures.”

Ruffwear caters to adventure-loving, outdoor oriented folks who believe dogs make the best running, paddling, hiking and camping partners. Throughout the year, Ruffwear will be highlighting a few hand-selected dogs and playing match-maker between these active dogs and Ruffwear fans looking for their new best furry friend.

Through its Facebook app, Ruffwear customers can learn more about the featured dogs and can apply for adoption. All approved adoptions will be paid for, including travel fees from Utah, by Ruffwear. Each adopted dog will also go home with a new Ruffwear collar and leash.