Ruby's Road: A True Story

by Patrick Bettendorf

Foreward Review's ''Book of the Year Award'' - WINNER (Bronze) - Adult non-fiction, Pets and animals; National Indie Excellence Awards - Finalist
In her last book, Ruby's Tale, thousands of fans across America and around the world followed Ruby from a puppy left behind like unwanted trash in an abandoned house to her meteoric rise to fame, popularity, accomplishment and community service. Now the wonderful, true story continues as she take a turn as a professional actor, wins countless friends in her travels, is drawn into an intrigue and a mystery, embarks on more adventures, takes on a protege and even accepts an invitation to an Ivy league law school and more! But, it's far more than fame and glory. . . The fabric of Ruby's story is also woven with her continued community volunteerism. . . and the fun or goofy stories of daily life with ''The Tribe'' Stories that every dog lover will enjoy!

208 pages, Paperback

First published July 15, 2013

Reviews

[Ann Vanderlaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby's Road is a sparkling retelling of some of the most important events surrounding Ruby, her family, and fellow members of the Bettendorf pack. Some of the milestones along Ruby's Road are deeply personal, some are very funny, and some are just "light bulb" moments where the reader gets to see exactly what motivates people like Lynn and Pat. We meet -- and take leave -- of people and animals along the path. And we see how a family comes together and grows, and passes on its traditions.

Rescuers are willing to resurrect and rehabilitate other people's discards and failures. They love the dogs they bring into their homes just as much or more than if they sheltered them from the day they were born. Each dog is a challenge and an opportunity to recycle rather than waste. Turning rambunctious, high-drive "bully" breed dogs into therapy and service dogs is not just a hobby: it's an honorable profession.

My three pit bulls vote unanimously: 5* and 6 dewclaws up!!!!!!

[Laurence Crowhurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pat has done it yet again, sending us on a rollercoaster ride of emotions that is Ruby’s Tribe.

Along the “Road” do we not only get a better look into Ruby’s amazing adventures, we also get to find out more about her family - both the dog and human packs.

Sometime we despair of where this world is heading, but having read about some of the truly wonderful people Ruby has met (and helped her in her journey) it fills us with hope.

From start to finish this is a most engaging book, showing how dogs not only share our lives but also enhance them.

Ruby is a true ambassador not only for her breed but for everyone.

P.S. Pat and Family we love you for everything you do. Our Tribe is eagerly awaiting Ruby’s next adventures.

[Louis Spirito · Rating 5 out of 5]

In RUBY'S TALE, author Pat Bettendorf chronicled the fate of a throwaway Pit Bull that rose from the mean streets to become a beloved service dog, national celebrity and the leader of his 'Tribe' of three humans and six rescue dogs. In RUBY'S ROAD, the writer and his eponymous heroine resume their adventures, winning heart and minds while grooming Sugar, a newcomer, who hopes to carry the load when Ruby decides to hang up her service vest. LIke the earlier book, this one revels in the day-to-day pleasure and treasures of the human-canine dynamic - a possum cornered in the yard, a turn onstage in a professional theater, a moving encounter with a misty-eyed WW II vet. These episodes underscore Ruby's sweet, loving temperament, yet it's clear that her human family is every bit as kind and caring, if a bit more chaotic. Thankfully, when disasters threatens to derail the Ruby express Ruby's charisma, and anonymous angels combine to save the day. Like a home-baked pie, or wine with friends by the fireside, RUBY'S ROAD is the kind of feel-good book that goes down easy and leaves us feeling all is right with the world.

[Kimberly Nordaune · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby's Road is the sequel of the book, Ruby's Tale, both written by Pat, who is one of the loving (and willing) servants of Ruby and the rest of the tribe. Pat will fill you in on life over the last few years with their rescue crew: Ruby, who has some medical struggles, Carla Rose and Tiger who are getting quite senior for their respective breeds, and their newest pack member who will remain unnamed for now, not to mention the others!! The struggles of the stigma power breeds carry is still an uphill battle. Pat, along with the teachings his family and tribe pass to everyone they touch, helps to bridge that gap and lessen it more every day. This book helps people gain invaluable knowledge and insight about Pit Bulls, Rottweilers and other power breeds, and rescue dogs in general. Not only that, but even for those who already know and love these breeds, it's simply a wonderful story. It will have you laughing and crying, perhaps remembering some of your own pet moments! Certainly it's more than just a book, it's one you'll want to have as part of your collection, along with Ruby's Tale! :-)