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ruff start stx

ST CROIX
UNDERDOGS

Our mission is to proactively search out the dogs who can’t search for help themselves. In addition, we offer educational youth programs to encourage animal compassion and advocacy in their everyday lives.

Featured Dogs

Dalton & Abe

DALTON

Dalton is around 2 years old, weighs approximately 50 lbs, and is ALL LOVE.  Gorgeous Dalton is neutered, heartworm-negative, strong, healthy, and very social. This boy loves to play, especially tug of war, and is wonderful on a leash.  He is the perfect combination of playful zoomies in the yard and cuddling on the couch. 

ABE

Abe is 5-6 years old, approximately 70lbs, and full of joy! This happy boy was found at Concordia dump on St Croix (presumably dumped by previous owners)and we believe was wandering on his own for nearly a month before finding us.  Abe is playful, good with other dogs, and loves everyone.

While Dalton and Abe are currently in New England, the Ruff Start STX Team will bring them to you – no problem! Both are ready to travel anywhere in the U.S. for the right match! 

Shannon Paull Photography 📸

 (Located in New England)

OUR PROGRAMS

We focus on the ‘unadoptable’ dogs that would normally not make it in a shelter environment and give them the time and attention they need to become safe, adoptable, pets

ABOUT US

Ruff Start STX is a
501(c)3 non-profit organization located on in the U.S. Virgin Islands on the beautiful island of St. Croix.

GET INVOLVED

Whether you contribute financially or as an advocate for the underdogs on St. Croix, you make a real difference.

HELP US END ANIMAL CRUELTY

We have big plans, and we’re going to keep pushing forward to help the forgotten dogs suffering in the present, while promoting responsible pet ownership through our youth and community outreach programs.


DONATE TODAY

Your generosity makes our work possible and is tax deductible.


OUR MOTTO

EVERY DOG DESERVES A SECOND CHANCE

Your generosity makes our work possible. Whether you contribute financially or as an advocate for good, you make a real and lasting difference in people’s lives.

RESCUE, Rehab, REHome

Descriptions of projects coming soon!

Free Monthly community clinic

Descriptions of projects coming soon!

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Future Events will be announced soon!

Adopt Today

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join the ruff start rescue

HOW YOU CAN HELP

ADOPTIONS

A new member of your family is waiting to meet you at Ruff Start STX. Browse our list of adoptable underdogs. We will help you with the logistics of flying off island if needed.

FOSTERING

Many times we have underdogs that need specialized care or attention. Our foster volunteers are a critical component of our Rescue & Rehab program.

MAKE A DONATION

We are forever grateful for your monetary donations. There are many other ways to contribute to our fundraising efforts, please click below to learn more.

TRANSPARENT WITH OUR FUNDING

Ruff Start STX has earned the Silver Seal of Transparency from GuideStar’s Non-profit Profiles.

SO FAR WE HAVE

10

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

297

DOGS ADOPTED

25

YOUTH PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS