Where it all began
My name is Ruth, and I am the heart and soul behind Waggy Tails Dog Rescue. I have two core passions in my life, my amazing boys Nixon and Bentley, and my life’s mission….being the voice for the dogs I rescue!
My passion for rescuing puppies and dogs began at an early age, and it was a common occurrence for me as a child, to be bringing home stray dogs and animals in need. I was always surrounded by animals, and I had a unique empathy and bond that developed as I grew. My first 'tough case’ was a pit bull named Hudson. He had endured extended isolation and violence, so when he come to me, he was anxious, aggressive and very untrusting. With determination and dedication, I trained Hudson to be a confident, happy and loving companion.
My career path didn’t naturally fall into the rescue role I am in now. Initially I followed the pathway of a chef, however my heart was always with caring for the dogs. In 2014, I decided to become a foster carer. This opened my eyes to how poorly the foster system was run for animals and their carers, and therefore inspired me to do things differently.
It was at this point I went out on my own with the intention of shaking up the dog rescue world!! My goal was to offer a unique, specialised service that focuses on the rehabilitation of the animal and the importance of the matching process with potential families. In addition, I turned my attention to the puppy farms, and the positive effect I felt I could have by removing them from the sometimes terrible conditions. I felt that if I could provide vaccination, training and desexing, I would be able to re-home them and stop the cycle of unnecessary puppy production lines.
My vision is for Waggy Tails is to be a leader in the industry, showing that the process of rescuing with specialised rehabilitation, carefully matched re-homing and post support for families, provides a platform for success and also reduces the chances of returning the dog. This is not just beneficial for the dog, but also their family.
With focus on life’s purpose, I am working toward providing positive working opportunities for people with disabilities. Being the mother of a son with Down Syndrome I understand the importance of creating meaningful platforms that can lead to a bright and fulfilling future.
Waggy Tails Dog Rescue believes in living and learning with intention and purpose, and with this we truly feel we can make a difference.