Become a Rufftail Runner

Sep 10, 2014

Rufftail Runners are set on developing "better-adjusted, healthier, and therefore, more adoptable dogs. And people."

This program began in 2010 and was opened to the general public in 2011. It started to become even more popular once APA! moved right next to Lady Bird Lake: trail-running while falling in love with a new dog or two was such an alluring way to volunteer.

Rufftail Runner training sessions in the past sometimes had upwards of 80 registered participants. Today, the sessions are capped at 33 eager folks looking to make a difference in the lives of many.

Altogether, this crew goes on more than 300 runs per month. Outside of trail-running, the Team Spiridon group supports the Austin Pets Alive! Heart to Heart Fund and have developed a close-knit community of animal-lovers.

"When you run a dog, you see their eyes brighten and their ears perk up. Many runners, including myself, have fallen in love with dogs after running with them. I have seen dogs wrought with nervousness and tension in their kennels, relax and enjoy themselves upon getting outside and going for a run or walk.

This program improves a dog’s quality of life while in the shelter, modifies behavior by providing an outlet for tension, and ultimately saves lives by helping make dogs more adoptable." - Lindsay Henderson

Austin Pets Alive! is grateful to have such a wonderful program and for the efforts of Team Spiridon, Hill Country Running Company and Firecracker Dog in building and maintaining it.

Rufftail Running is a great way to get in your daily dose of exercise and know that you're making a difference in the lives of Austin Pets Alive! dogs like Andrew.

 

Become a Rufftail Runner and make a difference today!