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Patricia Ruzzo Obituary
RUZZO, Patricia Susan (Goss) Patricia Susan (Goss) Ruzzo, 56, of Bulkeley Hill Road, Colchester, beloved wife of Terry, passed away Thursday (May 4, 2006) at the Wm. W. Backus Hospital in Norwich from complications of a stroke. Born Feb. 2, 1950 in Manchester, she was a daughter of Edward and Mary Jane (Cadorette) Goss of Hartford. She grew up in Manchester and was a graduate of East Catholic High School. Mrs. Ruzzo was the owner of Focus Food & Fun Dog Obedience School and was also affiliated with Tails-U-Win in Manchester. She was nationally recognized for her accomplishments in obedience training and conducted seminars all across the country. Patty was ever devoted to her family, always enjoying following her sons' youth sports activities – she will be greatly missed. In addition to her parents, as well as her loving husband of 27 years, she is survived by two sons, Adam James and Timothy Michael Ruzzo, both of Colchester; four sisters, Barbara McKay of Coventry, Sally Goddard of Thomaston, Jill Garrett of Virginia and Jackie Miner of Massachusetts; four brothers, Edward of Willimantic, Richard of Virginia, Phillip of Illinois and Lt. Col. Thomas Goss, U.S. Army, of Belgium; and numerous extended family and friends. Friends may call Saturday from 3 - 6 p.m. at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Road, Colchester followed by a Celebration of her life at 6 p.m. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, 238 West Town St., Norwich 06360.
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Memories and Condolences
for Patricia Ruzzo
Sponsored by her loving family, Terry, Adam, Tim, Flyer, Flicka, and Flash..
Beatrice
April 29, 2025
Patty changed the way dogs were trained, making it an enjoyable time for so many dogs and their owners.
Claire Moxim
April 29, 2023
I can't believe how long you've been gone, Patty. You changed dog training for me and so many others and made so many canine lives better. "Put a cookie on it" saved many a relationship.
Hazel Olbrich
February 3, 2022
When I am confronted with a training challenge, one of the first things I ask myself "Can I put a cookie on it?". This I learned from Patty
Donna
February 2, 2022
Happy Birthday Patty. I carry you with me every time I train my dogs
Jackie Miner
February 2, 2021
Dear Patty ,
How I miss you and wish we were growing old together. I know you are with me and I love you.
XO Jackie
Donna Hess
February 2, 2021
Happy Birthday Patty. Miss you still
Pat Gauthier
February 3, 2020
I thought of Patty many times yesterday, Feb. 2, her birthday. I always think of her on that day because it is so easy to remember (Groundhog's Day).
She was one of the most positive and funny people I ever met. She was also very observant and astute. For example, when I blamed myself for a particular problem, she gave me insight into what she had observed that clearly showed I did not exclusively own that problem. Then she pointed out all my positive qualities and encouraged me greatly. I really needed that encouragement then. She also helped me to learn to drive a standard shift, letting me use her own car! She did not get stressed if I stalled the clutch. Instead, she made some funny remark about it that made me laugh. She had a lot of patience. She was so much more than a "dog person." She was a bright light in the world. I still miss her.
Pat Gauthier
Donna
February 2, 2020
Happy Birthday Patty. Miss you. Hope your family is doing well.
Hazel Olbrich
October 22, 2019
Yesterday in training class I quoted Patty for the hundredth plus time "any behavior you do 1500 times you own".....
Sharon Page
October 21, 2019
A friend posted today on Facebook that she wanted to get rid of ring jitters. The first and best antidote that came to mind was a cassette tape by Patty that I listened to on the way to every obedience trial for a decade. I no longer have the tape or a tape player, but I would like to leave a thank-you here for Patty, who improved my relationship with my dogs and led us to many first place and even HIT wins in obedience. I wish I still had that tape!
Hazel Olbrich
April 29, 2019
I still use her admonition to "put a cookie on it" when thinking of how to solve a dog training problem. Her approach has had a positive influence on the training of my own dogs and I hope on the training done by those that I now teach.
Patricia Gauthier
April 29, 2019
It's hard to believe Patty has been gone so long. I first saw her at the Hartford, CT dog show with her Sheltie, Buddy in 1971 performing in CDX competition. Buddy was so enthusiastic, jumping up, wagging his tail and working beautifully. I was considering buying a Golden puppy but after I saw that performance, I started searching for a Sheltie. I couldn't find the right puppy and was ready to buy a Dalmatian when I saw Patty walking around in May at the Windham show. That's the day I met her. She told me her Buddy had sired a litter, they were 2 days old and there was one male. That day I reserved that male. It was the beginning of our long friendship and my obedience training and showing. She was my personal trainer. She made me laugh all the time. I miss her so much.
Pat Gauthier
February 4, 2019
So many wonderful comments and expressions about Patty and her influence....not only on dog training, but on life. She would have been so proud to have read so many nice testimonials, however, pride rarely motivated her....it was simply how she was, and obviously, that came across to her dogs and her friends. On behalf of Adam and Tim, thanks for keeping her in your hearts all these years.
Terry
Bonnie Peregoy
February 4, 2019
To Patty's friends and family, I though you would like to see these responses to a birthday posting on Facebook "competition obedience" page 2/2/2019 - she changed dog training forever.
Kay Braddock
Kay Braddock Thanks for sharing.
Like Reply 21h
Linda Stuart Brady
Linda Stuart Brady She was a great trainer!
Mary Horne
Mary Horne A huge and wonderful influence on our sport. So grateful to have known her even briefly.
Laurie Kirkpatrick
Laurie Kirkpatrick One of the biggest influences in my own training philosophy. She truly changed the way we train dogs for the good. She is surely missed....
Patricia Carpenter
Patricia Carpenter She changed the dog training world.
Cheryl Butchko I miss her too. I first met her at a seminar. She asked if anyone had a dog that knew sit. I raised my hand and she called me up.My dog was Cody, a young Shetland Sheepdog. She asked me to tell Cody to sit. I did and he sat. Then she took the leash andSee More
Bonnie Peregoy
Bonnie Peregoy It is not a book - but was an audio tape - now available as a CD. She did write a book, published posthumously, "Compete in
Barbara Fairweather Byer
Barbara Fairweather Byer Beautiful. Thank you. She is missed.
Like Reply 20h
Marina Raukhverger
Marina Raukhverger Beutiful!!
Valerie Wolf
Valerie Wolf It was her DVD and Willard Bailey's experience with her training that turned me from a "yank, crank, and choke" trainer to something very,very different. Well, her methods and Bridget Carlsen's. I still watch their DVDs every few months.....
LeeAnn Witherspoon
LeeAnn Witherspoon This is such a powerful testament to what us most important: our relationship with our dogs. She talks about her BC Chase being the catalyst to better methods. My sheltie, Ruby, did the same for me after 35 yrs of yank & crank. She was my first dog that I trained using only positive reinforcement, and not surprisingly she was the first of my dogs to earn a perfect score in competition
Joan Gilby Tate Christensen
Joan Gilby Tate Christensen Patty was such an inspiration and started me on my journey toward reward based training as well.
Sharon Gillis
Sharon Gillis I remember Patty well. At the Kingston trial my Border Collie Rocky and I were heeling when a turn presented us in front of the broad jump we had to do a fast where Rocky proceeded to jump it and kept in perfect heel position. She laughed and so did the Judge. She was a wonderful trainer.
Linda Nichols
Linda Nichols She was a true inspiration! ♥
Patricia Griffin
Patricia Griffin She not only changed my life, she changed the life of every dog companion I have shared since...
Happy Wizeman Gregson
Happy Wizeman Gregson I had the enjoyment of taking private lessons with Patty with my reactive male Terv. I so enjoyed her as a teacher and an individual.
Mary Schurr
Mary Schurr I attended a seminar when I first started training. She made me love this sport
Pauline Hosenfeld
Pauline Hosenfeld I came into the sport of dog obedience just as Patti Ruzzo and Leslie Nelson were sharing their training and am ever so glad they were there to show me there was a different and more effective way to train.
Lydia Whiteway
Lydia Whiteway I started obedience in Australia at age 12. I cried the first time my instructor took my dog and corrected him. But I did as I was told and got to UD and Masters Agility with him until he passed. Then I got my first Aussie and just as she said in this See More
Ann Lettenberger
Ann Lettenberger Nicest person, met her at a seminar in Seattle about 1993. She sent me a sympathy card in 1995 when my OTCH border collie died suddenly at age 5 years.
Chris Miara
Chris Miara I remember her, too. Excellent trainer and a positive influence for the sport.
Jenny Tippens Dickinson
Jenny Tippens Dickinson She was such an inspiration!!!
Dianne Jamison
Dianne Jamison Patty shared so many great ideas with so many people. A really great person, it was a privilege to know her and to have trained with her.
Esther Zimmerman
Esther Zimmerman I have no words........I miss her almost every day.
Elissa Kaminer O'Sullivan
Elissa Kaminer O'Sullivan Thank you so much for sharing this short video clip! That could have been me narrating it! I went through very much the same experience.
Pat Young
Pat Young When I got my first dog, Scotty, I was lucky that my neighbor lent me her Rudd Weatherwax Lassie Method for Dog Training back in 1979. Scotty was amazing. As a 3-4 month old pup, he knew sit,down, stay, jump, knew how to retrieve etc. I moved and toSee More
Bonnie Peregoy
Bonnie Peregoy and she was always as positive with her students and seminar attendees as she was with her dogs!!!
Manage
February 3, 2019
Hey Cousin, I think of you often. I don't have dogs, but I do have 2 cats. Teaching me how to have patience with animals has been a big help. Miss you and your family. Love, Cousin Irene Gallant, NH
February 3, 2019
Spent yesterday thinking of you as I do most days. With love, Jill
Hazel Olbrich
February 3, 2019
I still think "how can I put a cookie on it?" when I have a dog training problem. Her gift to me has been lasting.
Hazel Olbrich
February 3, 2019
Happy Birthday
I think of you all the time and still miss your kindness and loving advice.
XXO Jackie
February 3, 2019
My golden shares your birthday, Patty. She turned 10 yesterday. We think of you and speak of you often. You would love how positive training has evolved.
Fran Masters
February 2, 2019
Happy Birthday Patty. Think of you often.
Donna
February 2, 2018
Happy Birthday Patty. Miss you always. I hope your family is doing well.
Terry
February 2, 2018
Your boys are doing fine. Flash, the gift you left for us, passed away a few months ago. You are always remembered.
Pat Gauthier
February 5, 2017
I always think all day of Patty on her birthday, Feb. 2. Her humor, skill, positive attitude and kindness were her greatest characteristics. She influenced and helped me greatly and I will always miss her.
Pat Gauthier
February 4, 2017
Another birthday and another day of missing you. We speak and laugh about you often. Your goodness and love of life are missed. You are in my heart forever.
Your loving sister Jackie
Hazel Olbrich
February 3, 2017
I can't believe Patty has been gone so long. She had a profound affect on my dog training and I think of her training approach often. The mantra "put a cookie on it" is a great help to working through training problems. I am so thankful I was able to attend Camp Winaribbon and a seminar with her.
Hazel Olbrich
Oakland, CA
February 2, 2017
Happy Birthday Patty. Still think of you often.
Love, Donna
Pat Gauthier
February 3, 2016
Hi Patty,
I thought of you yesterday (your birthday) all day. You were such a good friend, a positive and kind person and a wonderful dog trainer. I miss you always.
Pat Gauthier
February 3, 2016
Almost 10 years now....I promise, you are not forgotten....Happy Birthday!
Terry
February 2, 2016
Happy Birthday Patty, you are always in my thoughts. Miss you.
Donna
Anne Springer
August 17, 2015
I'm listening again to your DVD that you did with Ted and Leslie. I think you'd be happy to know how far we've come. There's now a force free training organization and credential for trainers, and more people are training for competition of all kinds using positive training. We have a long way to go, but we couldn't have gotten this far without people like you...hoping that I can continue to make new trainers aware of your courage and contribution to our industry. Sad I never got to meet you, but incredibly grateful to have been mentored by people who did.
February 5, 2015
Happy Birthday Pattie, I never met you but studied everything that you did.
You were so passionate and positive giving gave respect to anybody who crossed your path even if they used different methods than yours.
Many Australians still think about you, what you taught them and mention your name. May you rest in everlasting Peace! xxx
Pat R Oz
February 5, 2015
When I think of Patty, I remember her laughter and her kindness. She will always be missed. RIP Patty knowing were are still loved by so many. Cousin Irene
February 4, 2015
Every good time would be that much better with Patty. You are missed and thought of often, and always with a smile.
XXO Jackie
February 3, 2015
Every Groundhog Day I think, "It's Patty's birthday." I remember all the laughing we did and can hear your laugh still. You were always so positive about dog training but also about people and life. You really respected everyone's differences and saw good in everyone. You helped me sort through so much and so,influenced my life greatly. Know that if I can send love into your world, I do. Happy Birthday.
Pat Gauthier
February 3, 2015
All is well, you are still missed.....
Happy Birthday, Terry, Adam, Andrea, Tim, and especially Flash.
February 2, 2015
Happy Birthday Patty. Miss you.
Donna
May 24, 2014
I remember watching my cousin, Patty, with her dogs and have applied alot of what she had taught me to my cats. I know they are different than dogs, but they need attention and love. Always wish I could have kept in touch more often with Patty and her siblings. - Cousin Irene Gallant
May 14, 2014
I think I feel like a lot of you. I often quote Patty or talk of my sister the internationally known dog trainer. I think of you often Patty and quote you often as I go though my life and still miss you with tears in my eyes. Your "Favorite Sister" Jill
JoAnn Tremel
May 13, 2014
I've never met you Patti. In fact I came upon your training methods after you were already gone. But you put an imprint on my training that will always be there. I knew immediately that I liked and admired your training. I wish I could have met you. When I am learning from my favorite trainers, I often think of you.
Michelle Canfield
February 6, 2014
Thinking of you today for no particular reason, of your description of practicing the long sit on the bed, and of making pizza just to use as bait. Love you still.
Terry, Adam, and Tim
February 4, 2014
Happy Birthday.
Pat Gauthier
February 4, 2014
On February 2 each year I remember Patti and speak of her to someone. I also remember her on many other days of the year because she taught me so much and made me laugh so much. So, before February closes I will say Happy Birthday and hope all move through the universe with some of her positive spirit.
Pat Gauthier, East hampton, CT
February 4, 2014
Happy Birthday, Cousin Patty. I think of you everytime I watch any dog show or see a dog that has been trained. Remembering the way you handled dogs has given me the knowledge and patience with dealing with my cats. You will always be missed. - Irene Gallant
February 2, 2014
Happy Birthday Patty. Your positive spirit is always with me.
Love,
Donna
Laurie Campbell
September 23, 2013
You are my hero. I love some of your quotes. Thanks for all you gave!
May 13, 2013
Thanks to all of you for your kind memories of Patti and the many wonderful thoughts. It is very uplifting to see the continuing positive impact that she still has on so many people (and not only in regards to obedience training). I can tell you all that Flash is continuing to show the happy and effervescent essence of such a wonderful dog just as she had expected when she choose him from his litter. Unfortunately, Flicka passed away last Fall. After 14 years, time finally took her. She was active and her wonderful self right up until her last day....she will always be missed.
Thanks again for the birthday wishes and special memories of Patti.
Terry, Adam, and Tim
Carol Michalski
February 17, 2013
I still use Patty's positive training techniques! The agility training I am using with my rescue is all positive. I had the good fortune of attending 2 seminars she presented. My big take away was her belief that training and competing should be joyful and that you never violate your dogs trust! Ever.
Jan Wesen
February 4, 2013
Patty you are so missed. However I put alot of cookies on all my training. Glad to see this keep going it is a little touch
Hazel Olbrich
February 3, 2013
Dear Patty,
I still think about solving a training problem by "putting a cookie on it". It still hleps light the way.
Pat Gauthier
February 3, 2013
Hi,
Of course I remember Patty on Feb. 1st and on Feb. 2 as well as other days. She taught me so much that I use now both in my business (training and pet care) but in my training role at Protectors of Animals in East Hampton, CT. I always talk from the dogs point of view and make people laugh just as she did (of course, she was better at this.) She also rescued me from negative thinking and taught me valuable life lessons. I miss her. Happy Birthday, dear friend.
February 2, 2013
Happy Birthday, Patty. You still light my way.
Love,
Donna
Mary Wilmoth
September 10, 2012
I held a whippet for a blood draw at work today. As I took him from his owner and walked him back to the treatment room, his body language told me he was nervous. Out of the blue, I remembered Patty Ruzzo's words when she talked about her young whippet during an obedience seminar. "You are such a handsome, proud Terv, your coat just hasn't come in yet" I told him. I kept talking to him like that, and honestly - he relaxed, acted like he was having fun, and actually seemed to prance across the room! ...and now I am crying as I remember how wonderful Patti Ruzzo was.
Leslie
August 9, 2012
Your light shines on, thank you Patty
Bonnie Peregoy
June 16, 2012
I got a notice that there was a new message here, but I didn't find any. Maybe it was just Patty, since last week we would have been together at her annual vacation at Camp Gone to the Dogs. At Camp I said that I still see Patty every afternoon, sitting outside the staff house, in the sun with Flyer beside her, reading her book. When I said that out loud, I heard that other staff had said the same thing - they can't look at that spot without seeing Patty. Even after 6 years she is still such a presence at Camp, and the Lilac we planted at the staff house in her memory always manages to be in full bloom during Camp week. At Friday night dinner when we have turkey, we all remember how much joy she got from getting a BOWL of gravy in the buffet line. Still laughing with you Patty.
February 2, 2012
Happy Birthday, Patty.
So many of us miss you still.
Always in my heart,
Donna
February 3, 2011
Hi Patty,
No Ground Hog Day goes by that I don't remember your birthday and think how old you'd be, 5 years behind me. You never met Jada but I know you'd love her. She's the dog of a lifetime. I will always miss you.
Pat Gauthier
Donna
February 2, 2011
Happy Birthday dear Patty.
My beloved Jessie went to the Bridge recently, please give her a job to do and take care of her for me until we all meet again.
Love,
Donna
Irene Gallant
July 30, 2010
Cousin Patty,
Wish I had gotten to see you more over the years. The times I spent at your folks with you and your siblings was and will always be the best part of my growing up. I learned alot about how to treat animals from watching you and Terry with your dogs. You were too young to be taken from your family.
Love, cousin Irene
Sophia
February 3, 2010
Happy belated birthday Patty. My GSD King just recently got another leg towards a Rally Adv. title and received a lovely compliment after the show about what a "neat" dog he was and how much fun he was to watch in the ring. I have you to thank for that because he knows...if we have a problem, we'll just put a cookie on it :). I hope all the dogs in heaven are heeling happily by your side.
February 2, 2010
Happy Birthday Patty.
I carry your spirit with me whenever I train or show my dogs.
Love,
Donna
Ginny Neher
January 20, 2010
still training with you looking over my shoulder.If I have a problem...I put a cookie on it.
miis your positive spirit.watch Food,Fun & Focus to review.
thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Noelle Nasca
February 21, 2009
Thank you for keeping this beautiful book open in order to allow us to "visit" and share. Thank you Patty for the beautiful gifts you gave to this world. You are with me each and every training session...thank you for making me a better partner for my dog.
Donna Hess
February 2, 2009
Happy Birthday, Patty.
Miss you always.
Donna
Barb Hooper
June 27, 2008
First, thanks for continuing to keep Patty's guest book maintained. It is comforting to have a place to go when thinking about her.
Just a few months ago, my GSD soulmate Nicholas passed away unexpectedly. Thanks Patty for taking that picture of him with Flicka at dog camp and sending it to me. It is in a special place in my home now. You always did the nicest things.
Missing you both so much.
Mary Monteith
June 14, 2008
I never had the honour of meeting Patty, but as a new person to obedience competition, she has become one of my favourite teachers. I have her videos and just got the Positively Ringwise CD which I have listened to dozens of times in my car. Her wisdom, intelligence and sense of humour shine through as does her love of training. I think of her words and her wonderful, sensible, caring advice when I train and I take her joy of training into the ring with me. Thank you, Patty, for your help. You have made me a better trainer. I wish I could have met you to thank you in person.
Faith Hays
February 28, 2008
I am so glad to find this site and that it is still being maintained. I can't tell you how often I bring Patty's name up as totally changing my life, and of course the life of all dogs I meet since meeting her.
She came to Anchorage Alaska many years ago, in the 1990's. Chugiack AK to be exact. I drove the 200 miles to go see what this lady had to offer. After that I never looked back. She didn't use a clicker, which I use now, but the kind gentle principals were there.
Wow, what a lady. So glad to have been able to actually meet her and gain knowledge from her.
Faith Hays
Kasilof, Alaska
Jackie Miner
October 23, 2007
It's a blustery autumn day, perfect for a walk in the woods. The leaved in the trees were so colorful, the ones on the ground crunching under my feet. I brought my dog Barkley, my kids are to grown for walks. I went to the gorge where Patty and I use to walk our kids and her dogs. If only the kids come back as fast as the dogs did. I cried for a good part of it, feeling sorry for myself for missing her so, thinking of all the lives she touched. Then I smiled when I thought of her family and friends and the happiness she gave us. How everyone loved Patty. Once home I put the kettle on, broke out the chocolate and picked up my book.
XXXOOO Jackie
Joan Payne Kincaid
September 6, 2007
We are using Patti's tapes to train our new
Parson Russell, as we used them 10 years ago
for our beloved Doberman, Jack, who passed
on May 16, 2006. We attended one of Patti's
seminars on Eastern L.I. around 1998. She was a joy and we shall always love her. I hope
that Flyer has been able to cope with such a loss to him. We of course see him all the time on the tapes. Patti was an extrodinary person and what she did for dogs as far as love and positive attitudes is immeasurable. I have just ordered her book that Leslie N. completed and shall treasure it. With love to everyone of you,
Rod, Joan, Jack ( now gone) and Fancy (a year old, and a Russo product from day 1)!
Kincaid Sea Cliff, NY
PAUL ROMAN
September 6, 2007
In the mid to late 90's I met someone who changed not just my animal training techniques but the way I would conduct any presentation, animal or human, for the rest of my life. That person was Patty. You have always been with me since that semenar in Oregon and that will not change.
John Lacher
September 6, 2007
This past year has been very hard for me as I look about me and asked where have some of my best friends and dogs gone? I fear when someone calls to tell me they have bad news.
Patty, you are deeply missed.
John Lacher
Canine Training Solutions, LLC
Sophia
April 11, 2007
My dog Prince recently received his CD title and I just want to say thanks to Patty for helping us get there! Everytime Prince sat straight, I put a cookie on it. Everytime Prince stayed like he was asked, I put a cookie on it. Everytime Price looked up and smiled at me, I put a cookie on it. Oh what beautiful fronts I've gotten since those shaky beginnings and each one ended up with a cookie on it. Thanks so very much for your inspiration Patty...even in your absence, you are ever present.
Pat Gauthier
February 4, 2007
Hi Patty,
I thought of you all week before, during and after your birthday thinking how I wanted to call you up and say Happy Birthday. I can never forget the Ground Hog Day. It's appropriate that it's an animal day because you loved all animals. Happy Birthday to you, old friend.
Donna Hess
February 2, 2007
Hi Patty,
Happy Birthday dear friend. I still can't believe you are gone. Countless times I pick up the phone to call you then remember you are not there. Everytime I go train my dogs, you are with me. When I show my dogs, I always wear something purple, so that I can feel connected to you.
I hope your family is doing OK, or at least trying to, and I hope your dogs are doing OK too. I bet Luca and Chase were happy to see you!!! Look out for all of us until we meet again.
Hugs,
Donna
Jill Goss-Garrett
November 7, 2006
I can't believe it's been six months since you left. I still go to
call you to ask a dog question or tell you the latest and come up
short. Often times it seems like you are here because I find myself
thinking about some advice you gave me and in using it feel your
presence. I smile everytime I walk my dog Emmit wearing your fleece
jacket with your grocery list in the pocket. I think of the countless
walks this coat took with you and it comforts me a bit. I will miss you
every day for the rest of my life. Your loving sister, Jill
Jackie Miner
October 28, 2006
Not a day goes by when I don't think of Patty. Sometimes it makes me smile and sometimes it brings tears. I miss her so and talk to her often in my own way. Somewhere I know she is smiling back at me too.
XXXO Jackie
Dale & Blitz Christianson
June 26, 2006
Hey Patty... Blitz and I miss you so much. Every now and then we drop in here to see all the nice things people have written about you. I hope your family also finds comfort knowing how much you are loved and missed by us "dog"people. I wrote back when you first passed but I just had to come in today to share Blitz's great news. You would have been so proud of us this past wknd Blitz did his first UKC Obedience Trial and he scored 196 pts! Took 1st place got wonderful comments from the Judge and He took HIGH in Trial!!!! Our Noisy hard working crazy boy was QUIET! As we were walking to the ring I told him the same as I always did at the start of our lessons "Let's go work for Patty" It broke my heart as he scanned the area looking but he stepped into that ring and work he did as if you were right there with us. I know when I go to Tails on Thur that empty picnic table is going to hit me especially hard this week again as I still expect you to be there. So we dedicate this win to you and carry you in our hearts and minds always....
Michele Dougherty
June 15, 2006
I only just heard today of Patty's passing. I met my friend, Judy, and breeder of my dog Daisy at the Patty Ruzzo/Ted Turner seminar many years ago at Tails U Win. Judy told me this morning of this terrible loss to the dog community.
She was a huge inspiration to me. Everything that has been said about her here is true. I saw her at three seminars over the years. I especially enjoyed watching her take gentle charge of a dog and handler and make them look like a million bucks by the time she was done.
I have her tapes and must go quickly to see them once more and enjoy the sparkle in her eye and her laugh.
Michele Dougherty
Sandi Atkinson
June 9, 2006
Please accept my sincere condolences on the death of Patty Ruzzo. I know you have many happy memories of her to treasure. I knew her from attending a dog-training seminar some years ago.
claudette (arsenault) flanigan
June 3, 2006
I would very much like to offer Patty's husband and sons my deepest sympathy. And to all my Goss cousins and Aunt Irene and Uncle Eddie also. I was so shocked to hear this sad news. Although I have not seen Patty for many years I certainly have fond memories. Our years together at East Catholic H.S. and all our sleepovers...especially the one where a group of us snuck out of the basement on Helaine Drive and were running around the neighborhood in the middle of the night. I can still picture the shelves in her room with all the horse figurines. Even at that age she would talk about her love for dogs. So many good times with my cousin Patty. I will keep all of you in my prayers and may God Bless.
Andrea Nanna-Montgomery
June 3, 2006
I just learned of Patty's passing. I can't imagine what Camp Gone to the Dogs will be like without her. My prayers are with her family, both human and canine.
Nicky (Ruth) Trowbridge
May 30, 2006
Patty Ruzzo helped me at a time when I had tried very hard but "my best just wasn't quite good enough" and I was very discouraged. I had just finished I think 1/2 point out of the 10 placements at a Gaines Regional Dog Obedience Tournament back in 1990. She took me aside privately in the hotel and gave me 3 hours of FREE private instruction with my Belgian Tervuren dog "Legend", teaching me handling detail I could have never learned on my own. It paid off and the result was that the next year we not only placed in the regional event but finished 1st place in the National one. I have never seen any other trainer with the cat-like grace, ability and timing that Patty had, not to mention her good natured, tremendous generosity. I owe her a great debt and thank the Lord for bringing her into my life at the time he did.
Madeleine Magnan
May 26, 2006
Patty learn to me to love and trained the dogs.My sympathy to her families and friends.
Judy Bard
May 25, 2006
Patty has had and will continue to have a profound impact on my life. Her innate respect for dogs and their people is only one part of Patty's influence on me and so many other people. Her physical presence is no more but her legacy will provide us with a life to emulate. Patty, it was a joy to have worked with you.
Sara Goddard
May 25, 2006
My wounderful Aunt Patty,
I miss you dearly and all your laughs at our family christmass parties. You used to always bring your dogs over to grandma&grandpa's cottage...I knew when your were there because flyer would run over and lick everybody. Now the cottage is gone and everybody is slightly slipping away but our love is everywhere. I didn't get to say good bye to you I never would even thought it would be you. Intill I got that 10pm phone from my mum...I knew something was wrong by the way my phone rang .. I had candels burning and tears racing from my eyes. But I will never forget the best times that we all had with you. Since your passing it has helped everyone get together again . Now I have been able to get in contact with all my aunts and uncles. Once again we are all together and mounring at your loss. I miss you and I love and I know your in heaven with Shelly and the rest.I'll see you at heavens gates. God Bless and I love you ! And I miss you Aunt Patty
Pat Tetrault
May 25, 2006
A bright star in the galaxy of the dog world has gone out. If Patty were here, I would hug her & thank her for sharing her wealth of information and fabulous style with all of us. She will be missed as a friend, fellow trainer and wonderful, wonderful person. She taught us well. Godspeed, Patty!!
Sheri Douglass Powers
May 24, 2006
Terry, Adam and Tim-while I never met you I was prevledged to have met Patty and attend several of her seminars, view her tapes and listen to her. She changed the way I think about training and how I spend time with my dogs and family. Her loss is great, to you and the "dog world". Thank you for sharing her with us all over these many years, what she shared with us has changed many human and canine lives. My thoughts are with you all, take care.
Ann Melchior
May 22, 2006
What a joy to watch her lovingly train dogs - and have no remorse about using food - abundant food! She will be missed by all at Camp Gone to the Dogs.
Robin Isely
May 22, 2006
I am deeply saddened to learn of Patty's passing. I never had the honor of meeting her. Her video tapes revolutionized my training style and brought joy and dancing to my partnerships. My sincere condolences to the family.
Julie Hosley
May 18, 2006
Patty was instrumental in converting my entire way of training, which resulted in teaching many 4-Hers "cookie power", and in starting my own positive training school, Best Friends Dog Training in New Albany, Ohio. Patty will be very sadly missed by the dog community--but welcomed by all the dogs who have passed before her! God speed, Patty!
Carolyn (Cindy) Carr
May 18, 2006
Ed and Irene,
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. I have such fond memories of you and your children. You were such great friends to my parents. Having lost both a Mother and a Sister, I have some idea of your feeling and my heart and prayers are with you all.
Cindy Carr
Beverly Blanchard
May 17, 2006
My sympathies to Patty's family, friends and canines. I had the opportunity to meet Patty at Camp Gone to the Dogs where I was always amazed and energized by her spirit. She always took time to make each and every person feel welcome. When around her you always knew you were in the presence of someone extremely talented, gifted and a pioneer in dog training, but she never made you feel that way. She had a knack of letting you know that you too could share the same relationship with your dog and she would show you how.
I will cherish the brief time I spent with Patty but I take comfort in those memories and know that the impact she left on me and so many people have made us better people for knowing her.
Thank you to her family for sharing her amazing spirit with the dog community who love her so much.
Ann Bulke
May 16, 2006
I first met Patty around 2000 when I attended Camp Gone to the Dogs as a Camper. I was very impressed with her training methods and friendliness - her cookie training and spitting food blew me away! The 2nd year I attended (yes all the way from Australia!) there was a funny event when a group tried to kidnap a huge bar of chocolate which the instructors had in their lodgings. A dog was taken hostage - sheep were driven into the dorm and general mayhem and frivolity went on for ages - it was a very funny experience. During this episode I looked up onto the roof and there was Patty hanging practically by her toenails taking photos which were posted on the noticeboard the next day - it was a lot of fun!
I have been training dogs for around 40 years and would have to say Patty was one of the leaders in dog training and positive methods. I nagged her quite a few times to come out to our Camp Tailwaggers here in Australia for a training seminar with us and she said she would "one day".
Many, many dog trainers in Australia have her tapes and she is very highly regarded in this country.
I will miss her smiling face at Camp (this year my 6th year there and now as a full Obedience Instructor)
ANN BULKE
GOLD COAST - AUSTRALIA
"Our family chain is broken
it will never be the same
but as we all go, one by one
the chain will link again.
A.B.
Barbara Janelle
May 16, 2006
Dear Terry, Adam and Tim,
I have been away and just learned of Patty's death. I liked Patty a lot and it was an honor to know her. She walked her truth and brought kindness and excellence into the world of dog training. Through her work, she made the world a brighter and more heart-centered place.
In quiet moments at Camp Gone to the Dogs and during my visits to Connecticut, Patty spoke to me of her love for each of you and her pride in her sons. May you follow your own stars as Patty did.
A story that I tell at my workshops is about a conversation that I had with Patty two summers ago. She said that a woman at Camp asked her, "How do you always get your dog's attention?" Patty replied, "I think good thoughts about him." Even now, I can see her watching Flyer with a soft smile on her face. I will miss Patty very much.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all in your very great loss.
Renata Bassi
May 16, 2006
I just heard of Patty's passing. Words cannot begin to express the void that she will leave behind. She was my hero. I had the pleasure of meeting her at several week-end seminars. She was kind enough to venture all the way to Ottawa, Canada for a week-end seminar that my group organized. The dog world has lost one of it's BEST. She touched the lives of so many people and their beloved companions. She made a difference. My most heart-felt condolences to her family and thanks for sharing her with us. My dogs will be getting extra hugs tonight from Patty.
Dogwise.com
May 16, 2006
The Staff at Dogwise.com would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Patty. She will be missed in the dog world.
Cher McCoy
May 16, 2006
I had the pleasure of spending time with Patty at a seminar here in Virginia. It was one of my favorite times spent with a guest presenter of all the seminars I've been to through the years. I will miss Patty.
Lori Sash-Gail
May 16, 2006
I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss to us all of Patty. She was a bright, vibrant spirit and her dogs reflected her joyful love of training. She was an inspiration to my own training in the early years when I competed. I will never forget seeing her perform at a Gaines Event with her fabulous Terv, Luca. I was awestruck and inspired by the sheer charismatic joy he exuded -- the bounce in his step, the swish of his tail, the smile on his face and the flashy finish. When in later years I attended Patty's seminars, I saw Patty, the person who let that light shine through. I enjoyed her joie de vive and childlike fun in sharing her new found passion of "throwing cookies" and encouraging us all to do the same. She made cookie training politically correct. Such an amazing talent, she had the goods to prove that cookies worked miracles. Initially a Terrier person, I fell in love with Tervs when I saw Luca. But it wasn't until several years ago that I got my own named Arrow,who took over my heart. I lost him last month to bone cancer. A week after he died, I got my new Terv puppy. For over a month, I have agonized over what to name him. I have researched names in French, Italian, Spanish, Hawaiian and Native American. Still no name. I was still undecided and hopeless until a few days ago when I received the e-mail telling me of Patty's passing. My puppy's name flashed down my spine like a shock. His name would be "Luca" -- after the two spirits that I greatly admired. When I looked up the meaning of the name, it said Luca - "bringer of light." Both Patty and her dog Luca were an amazing team of energy, spirit and light. Let the light shine brightly in our hearts for Patty Ruzzo forever.
Susan
May 15, 2006
My prayers are with Patty's family. I regret to say that I never had the privilege or honor of personally knowing or attending any of her seminars, as I am very new to the world of dog training. But I must say without a doubt she was a precious, wonderful person in God's eyes, for taking such good care of His creatures, and in the eyes of numerous humans for the help and guidance she provided, not to mention the impact she has made on the lifes of animals. Because of the commendable condolences here and the innumerable references to her qualities mentioned by so many people in the "dog world", I can vividly picture her warmth, kindness, and overall "specialness". My mother always told me that God has a special place in His heart for those that care for His precious creatures (and she's never wrong). I know that Patty must have that special place.
Jim Gregg
May 15, 2006
Patty's knowledge, skills, abilities, and accomplishments as a handler and trainer are known to many. What I will remember and hold most dearly is the genuineness of her friendship -- being welcomed as a friend in the same warm, joyful, caring, funny, and respectful manner as she welcomed her own canine companions into her life. I remain totally stunned and I seek comfort in knowing that her presence will remain with us forever.
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