Earning a BFA in graphic design and receiving awards for excellence in design and illustration was just not rewarding and fulfilling enough for me. I love animals. And in my heart, I knew that part of being an artist meant I must follow my heart and do everything I could to help as many animals as possibly could.

After working in a local animal shelter, and seeing the sadness, fear and total neglect on the faces of the animals, I felt as if a switch had been turned on inside of me. I realized pretty quickly that I could not help or save all the innocent and abandoned animals sitting in shelters, but I could do little things to make their da-to-day stay at the shelter less terrifying. A kind and soothing tone of voice, a clean blanket and a plush toy to snuggle up to was all they needed to offer comfort and reassurance, even as brief as that was. Their little expressions of appreciation made me realize that they deserved better. A beam of light touched my sole and I became inspired to combine my talents as an accomplished artist with my heartfelt, and passionate inner need to find a way to speak for all the animals out there. I wanted to do everything in my power to make all animals and pets feel special and let them know that we, as pet owners, appreciate them for being a part of our lives.

I designed my products at Ruff Stuff specially to let all of our pets know that we, the owners, are blessed to have them in a part of our lives. Fun, pampering, unique products, specially designed and made by hand was the perfect vehicle in making this happen.

Purchase the products from Ruff Stuff and know that each handmade piece is made with love and appreciation, and of course, and above all else, designed to pamper and spoil your special “little one”. They all deserve the best, and we, as the owners, need to show them that. Please never forget about those innocent and neglected animals that need our help.

Check out my “links” page and make a donation to your favorite shelter and/or your favorite rescue group. Those hard working organizations have little or no funding and are the ones who provide the much needed help from us to make miracles happen and give the “little ones” the best chance to connect with the perfect, loving home.

My personal goal is to sell enough of my products so that I can help by making small donations, based on the percentage of my profits, then increasing that percentage by 1% on an annual basis.

My products are fun, creative, made with lots of love, and are comfortable to wear, allowing your pet to feel like the best thing to hit the dog park!

Thank you,

June Michel- Founder, designer, creator

"my little rescue and inspiration"

*This site is dedicated to all shelter staff, rescue
organizations and animals in need.