January 10, 2007 (Bend, Ore.)—Ruff Wear announces a new partnership with the Conservation Alliance addressing their desire to give something back to the outdoors, the inspiration behind their gear for dogs on the go®. Supporting the Conservation Alliance is a natural fit for Ruff Wear, the company shares many conservation goals with the non-profit – keeping wild places open and environmentally sound and providing recreational opportunities for dogs and people.

“When we pool resources with an organization such as the Conservation Alliance our conservation efforts are stronger and more effective than if we try to do it on our own,” states Ruff Wear president Patrick Kruse, “No partner is more eager to get out and enjoy the outdoors than our dogs. To have places to run off leash and open space to play is a huge benefit to both humans and canines alike.”

The Conservation Alliance (www.conservationalliance.com) is a group of outdoor businesses that work together to protect wild places throughout North America where wildlife thrives and people recreate. Each member company – including Ruff Wear – pays annual dues into a central fund, and the Alliance donates 100 percent of those dues to organizations working to protect wild forests, rivers, deserts, mountains and other important landscapes. “We’re excited to welcome Ruff Wear into The Conservation Alliance. As a brand with a long-standing commitment to conservation, Ruff Wear is a great addition to our efforts to protect wild places throughout North America, “ states, John Sterling, Executive Director of The Conservation Alliance.

Patrick Kruse, Ruff Wear’s President comments, “If everyone just does a little bit it adds up quickly. Joining forces with the Conservation Alliance made sense because our money was going to the many of the same causes.” Since launching in 1989, The Conservation Alliance has given away more than $5.3 million to grassroots conservation organizations. With Conservation Alliance grants these groups have saved nearly 40 million acres of land, stopped or removed 26 dams, preserved access to thousands of miles of rivers and several climbing areas.

In addition to funding environmental groups, The Conservation Alliance fosters the hands-on participation of member companies. Through the Walking the Talk Program, the Alliance provides opportunities for companies and their employees to get active in volunteer programs. Such opportunities show employees that conservation is a priority within their company.