Ruger's Tail - From Caged to Called

Ruger is a one-ish-year-old German Shepherd with heart, drive, and a tail wag that could take out a linebacker. But before he became a rising star in K9 service, he was just another forgotten name on a kennel door.

Back then, he was known as Apollo—a long-term resident at the Putnam County Animal Shelter who had spent nearly his entire life waiting.
Waiting for purpose.
Waiting for someone to see the working dog beneath the surface.
Waiting for more than just a bowl of food and a chain-link fence.

That “more” came because a shelter team refused to give up on him.
To the staff at Putnam County Animal Care -this one's for you.
You knew he wasn’t meant for a cage. You knew he needed a job. And because of your unwavering belief and tireless advocacy, Ruger got his shot.

But his transformation didn’t happen overnight and it didn’t happen alone.

Ruger was taken in by a dedicated foster family who also serves in law enforcement. They gave him what every future K9 needs: structure, guidance, love, and a soft place to land before the hard work began.

And Ruger rose to the challenge.
With focus, intensity, and a joy for the job that’s absolutely contagious, Ruger has found his purpose and his people.

Today, Ruger is officially in service with the Town of Fairmount Police Department, where he made a narcotics bust during his very first week on patrol.

From shelter dog to working K9, Ruger’s story is proof that second chances save lives and protect communities.

This is why we do what we do.
This is Redemption Ranch K9.