The company that loves roughing it
About two decades ago Patrick Kruse moved to Bend because he wanted to be in a place that would feed his soul, with boundless ways to play in the outdoors, and build a business around that priority. He founded Ruffwear, which makes performance products for dogs, with the mission of encouraging everyone with a four-legged friend to seize outdoor adventures, be it a trail run, a day hike, or multiday backcountry expedition.
Today, the products are sold in thousands of locations globally, and the company has about fifty employees. It was named one of the 50 Best Places to Work in America by Outside magazine in 2010, highlighting businesses that achieved success in a challenging economy “precisely because they support a proper work-life balance … which makes employees happier and thus more productive.” For Kruse, location is a key part of that. “The livability of Bend for me is the proximity to rivers, lakes, mountains, forests, deserts and all of the outdoor activities that those open spaces provide,” he said. “Kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, camping, hang gliding are just a few of the amazing activities that create those experiences that make us feel alive.”
The area is also a perfect proving and testing ground for the products that Ruffwear builds, literally right outside the back door. “Need a river to test a K-9 Float Coat? Head to the Deschutes River. Need to test some new outsoles on dog boots? Head to the high desert terrain just out the back door, up to the snow. Even in the middle of summer, snow can be found in the higher elevations,” Kruse said. “Or, head out to the Badlands to climb around on some basalt. Need to test the fit of a dog pack? Take a hike along the river trail or head to the high country.”Of course, product would be pointless without people, Kruse said. “The people who work with Ruffwear come to Bend for many of the same reasons, livability and outdoor pursuits. Happy people and proven products make for a good combination.”
Ruffwear continues to grow as its consumer demand surges. Last year, the company expanded distribution in Europe, the Middle East, New Zealand and Australia. At the same time, the business works with The Conservation Alliance to conserve open spaces for recreation nationally and closer to home. Last year, The Conservation Alliance awarded a grant to Oregon Natural Desert Association to support a campaign to protect 17,000 acres of land in John Day Wilderness. Ruffwear employees also volunteer with local trail building and restoration efforts, and other community projects.
Source: Cascade Sotheby’s International Realty
