The Next Chapter of Camp Ruff It

Something big is happening at Camp Ruff It.

Over the last four years, Ryan and I have poured everything we have into this business. It has been one of the most rewarding, challenging, and meaningful experiences of our lives. We have learned a lot. We have grown a lot. And every step of the way has been shaped by the dogs in our care and the trust you have given us.

And now, we are ready for what is next.

This spring, Camp Ruff It will be moving into a brand new space, less than a block away from where we are now.

We have been working on this behind the scenes for a long time. Not just to move, but to build something better. Something more intentional. Something designed around what dogs actually need.

Every part of this new space has been thoughtfully planned. From the layout to the materials to the way dogs move through the building, nothing has been left to chance.

We are using a fear-free color palette designed to promote calm behavior. We have chosen to use solid wall partitions instead of traditional fencing to reduce visual overstimulation and create a more peaceful environment. The goal is to create a space that feels safe, structured, and low-stress for every dog in our care.

There is more room to move. More structure to their day. More opportunities for enrichment and engagement.

We are expanding in ways that allow us to better support every dog. We are going from two bedrooms to three, from one senior space to five, and from three play areas to four.

We are also introducing something we are incredibly excited about, a dedicated Scent Space. Dogs experience the world through their nose, and scent work gives them a way to use that instinct in a way that builds confidence, reduces stress, and provides meaningful mental stimulation. It is one of the most powerful forms of enrichment we can offer, and now it will have its own place at Camp.

We are also planning to add dog slatmill treadmills and create space for agility work in the near future, giving us even more ways to keep dogs active, engaged, and fulfilled.

And of course, everything you already love is staying. Enrichment, structured play, themed activities, photoshoots, taste tests. All of it, just elevated.

We know many of you will want to see it, and we don’t want to make you wait.

On Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., we will be opening the doors for a Preview Party. It will be open house style, so you can stop by anytime.

The space will not be completely finished yet, but that is part of what makes this so special. You will get a real look at what we have been building and what is coming next.

We will have self guided tours throughout the space, along with giveaways and raffles from some amazing local partners including Kriser’s Pet Food Stores, DuPage Pet Waste Solutions, Archway, Nala and Luca’s, Neer Beer, and more to come.

The first 150 people will receive swag bags, kids are welcome, and we ask that dogs stay home so everyone can move comfortably and safely through the space.

No RSVP is needed. Just come by.

As for timing, we are planning to move sometime this spring. Because construction and licensing milestones can shift, we will share exact dates as soon as everything is finalized. Our goal is for this to be a smooth and seamless transition for both you and your dogs.

After we open, you will be able to stop in for tours during normal business hours.

This next chapter of Camp Ruff It is something we have been working toward for a long time. It is built from experience, from growth, and from a deeper understanding of what dogs truly need to feel safe, engaged, and fulfilled.

And none of it would be possible without you.

Thank you for being part of this with us.

We cannot wait to welcome you into what comes next.

Lori and Ryan