May 7, 2003, Bend, OR - Ruff Wear, a Bend-based company For Dogs On The Go™, is expanding their line of high quality canine gear into the Mid-Atlantic and South Atlantic regions with a new sales team and strategy. Andy Molter of Brandywine River Representatives is growing the Mid-Atlantic territory while Brandon Simmons and Mel Chrestman are expanding the South Central region. The approach comes from Geoff Peddicord, who recently joined Ruff Wear as the company's Sales Manager.

"We are utilizing sales representatives who have earned great reputations for professionalism, having strong work ethics and representing high end, high quality outdoor lines," said Peddicord. The new sales representatives have helped Ruff Wear expand regionally in the outdoor retail market and the pet industry.

Ruff Wear continues to focus on and prioritize its sales in the outdoor retail and specialty pet markets. "We are very cognizant of what happens in the market place that ultimately directs sales strategies and company growth," said Peddicord. "While many outdoor companies are caught in the quagmire of a large corporate structure, Ruff Wear's strategy and size allows us to maintain control over product design and innovation, ensuring that quality is never compromised. By creating strong positive relationships with our sales force, we are able to keep a finger on the pulse of the industry, allowing us to respond quickly to a dealer's exact needs. Our national sales team is the strongest it has ever been and we are very fortunate to be utilizing all of this great talent."

A welcome addition to the Ruff Wear team, Peddicord brings a strong background of outdoor recreation, sales and marketing to the company. Prior to joining Ruff Wear, Geoff was the owner of Great Bear Expedition Company in Missoula, MT where he oversaw all aspects of the business, including sales and marketing. Geoff also spent several years as a fly-fishing guide on the Blackfoot, Bitterroot, Rock Creek and Clark Fork rivers in western Montana.

"Geoff is highly motivated and enthusiastic," said Patrick Kruse, owner and founder of Ruff Wear. "His work at Ruff Wear fits well with his character and lifestyle." Geoff has a yellow lab named Mac and he and his wife Teresa are celebrating the recent arrival of their new daughter Parker Lily.

Ruff Wear, For Dogs On The Go™, is the maker of the original collapsible water & food dog bowls, dog packs, dog boots, dog toys, overcoats, life jackets, first aid kits, travel bags, training and grooming supplies and gear for dogs of every description-from family pets to working dogs. Based in Bend, Oregon, Ruff Wear sells its products through specialty pet and outdoor retailers, as well as through www.ruffwear.com.