Ruth Tschudin of River Vale & Dog Fest 2010
River Vale NJ has a true hero in Rutch Tschudin. This very energetic and charming woman has been a champion of abused and neglected dogs for decades. Together with her husband Hugo, Ruth has been an amazing force in the world of animal rescue. With the sponsorship of Open Doors, Ruth began a celebration of “dogs and the people who love them” called Dog Fest and in a very few years it has become a most special event.
Ruth founded Open Doors, An Amazing Grace Foundation as a tribute to her mother and father. Open Doors, which describes it’s mission as “dedicated to encouraging, empowering, and giving practical assistance to those going through difficult times,” is Ruth and Hugo’s passion second only to their new grandchild.
River Vale residents for many years, Ruth and Hugo are well known in the community and well loved. River Vale is a small and intimate community and it is people like the Tschudins who prove the axiom that one person can indeed make a difference. Dog Fest 2010 was more than a triumph – it was an amazing success. Held at Beechwood Park in Hillsdale NJ this year, people came by the thousands. They brought their dogs and their children and spent Sunday afternoon enjoying the day and their dogs. Even people who didn’t have a pet came just to see all the dogs.
Dog Fest 2010 had everything you could imagine for pets of the canine variety with vendors galore, a dog parade, Champ the Miracle Dog and New Jersey’s own Dog Whisperer. Rescue dogs needing to be adopted were there in force and I’m told that every one was adopted on Sunday. Ruth Tschudin is a River Vale treasure. You can help Open Doors by clicking here and making a donation. Maybe I’ll see you next year at Dog Fest 2011!


