The Rhodesian Ridgeback Association

of Western New York, Incorporated

(RRAWNY, Inc.)

History - Who We Are...

RRAWNY was officially founded on February 6, 1993 for the purpose of not only providing a social platform for Ridgeback fanciers to gather, but to create a vehicle by which the general public could be educated about the Breed. RRAWNY meets regularly on (more or less) a monthly basis to discuss the latest developments both in the Ridgeback and general dog world.

Many of the topic areas we discuss include adoption/rescue, public education, field competitions and, of course, conformation of the Ridgeback. RRAWNY also prints and distributes a newsletter, "RAPPIN' RIDGEBACKS" on a tri-annual basis (February, June & October). We actively take part in a reciprocity program to "trade" newsletters with fourteen other "regional" Ridgeback clubs throughout the United States and Canada.

RRAWNY was officially incorporated on July 5, 1996 with membership approval effective August 24, 1996. RRAWNY, Inc. holds to the commitment of standing by our Breed and doing the best we can to improve the Breed as a whole.

ABOUT US - What We Do...

The folks making up RRAWNY firmly believe that the Rhodesian Ridgeback is capable far more than just being one of those show dogs on television. In fact, part of their allure is their ability to (generally) adapt to most things you like to do.

Many people believe the myth that only “show dogs” can travel and enjoy all kinds of exciting fun with their owners, and “pet dogs” stay home. The truth is that Rhodesian Ridgebacks (RRs) don't need to be “show dogs” to enjoy an enormous range of fun activities with their owners. Even “show dogs” spend relatively little time at the beauty contests called dog shows.

oval or sprint racing, flyball, weight pulling, endurance tests, and therapy work, just to name a few of the activities available!

Did you know that almost any RR can earn an American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Award, complete with a special certificate and the AKC title CGC? A well-mannered Ridgeback is a pleasure to you and everyone around him or her. In the long-term, having one of these titles represents not only a well-adjusted canine companion, but also recognizes that the owner has taken the responsibility of dog ownership seriously.

All of these fun activities simply require owners who want to spend quality time with their Ridgebacks, and Ridgebacks who want to enjoy some fun with their owners.

You may ask "Why bother?" Your dog will be a happier, more intelligent, better companion, while you learn to be a better, more understanding owner. You will be amazed at how much fun you will have getting to know each other!