Ricochet is an internationally renowned, award winning surf dog who has become an inspirational phenomenon, philanthropic role model, internet sensation, fundraising marvel, community advocate, goodwill ambassador, and muse to millions!
She has gone from service dog to SURFice dog® and back again! She is also a hero dog, dog of the year and therapy dog who lives a lifestyle of helping others by 'pawing it forward' while raising awareness & over $500,000 for human/animal causes.
Ricochet advocates for many human interest initiatives including anti-bullying, equality, animals, the disabled community, individuality, crisis situations, accepting others for who they are, adaptive surfing, cancer, childhood cancer and many more.
She has gone from service dog to SURFice dog® and back again! She is also a hero dog, dog of the year and therapy dog who lives a lifestyle of helping others by 'pawing it forward' while raising awareness & over $500,000 for human/animal causes.
Ricochet advocates for many human interest initiatives including anti-bullying, equality, animals, the disabled community, individuality, crisis situations, accepting others for who they are, adaptive surfing, cancer, childhood cancer and many more.
Media & press information
Click here for a complete list of media and notoriety
|
|
Name
Ricochet Gender Female Breed Golden Retriever Birthdate January 25, 2008 |
|
KLEENEX ALERT!
The video below shows how Ricochet's SURFice dog work began. It's been viewed by more than 14 million people!
Read the story behind the videos in Ricochet's best selling book.
Click here for more info or to order your copy!
|
Ricochet was showcased on the TV show
"Beyond Belief" on the Oprah Winfrey Network. |
Ricochet was featured on ESPN's Sports Center with
several of the kids with special needs she surfs with. |
Balancing boards, balancing lives
|
|
In 2009, Ricochet chose her own life purpose by unexpectedly jumping on a surfboard with 14 year old quadriplegic surfer, Patrick Ivison. The plan was for her and Patrick to surf on the same wave, but on their own boards. They rode a few waves like that, but then one time, when they got to the beach, she jumped off her board, and onto Patrick's. She was proclaiming to the world... I want to surf WITH Patrick on the same board. Tandem! Everyone put their trust in Ricochet and we tried it. She instinctively counter-balanced the board as they rode to shore, and history was made! Click the video to the left to view the ride. |
Prior to Ricochet there were no dogs committed to adaptive surfing. As such, she became the Canine Ambassador for Surfers with Disabilities®. She’s also the only SURFice dog® on the planet who provides therapeutic assistance while creating unique surfing experiences that empower kids with special needs, people with disabilities, wounded warriors & veterans with PTSD. She adapts her surfing style based on each individual’s disability, healing hearts and souls on every wave.
Although surfing has been at the forefront of Ricochet's work, it’s not the act of surfing that makes her interactions so life changing. Don't get me wrong, it's pretty magical to watch her instinctively adapt her surfing style based on each individual's disability. And there have been some tremendous life-altering experiences in the ocean. But, it's her compelling ability to make immediate, heart-to-heart, soul-to-soul connections that allow for remarkable healing interventions… She balances boards, and lives!
Although surfing has been at the forefront of Ricochet's work, it’s not the act of surfing that makes her interactions so life changing. Don't get me wrong, it's pretty magical to watch her instinctively adapt her surfing style based on each individual's disability. And there have been some tremendous life-altering experiences in the ocean. But, it's her compelling ability to make immediate, heart-to-heart, soul-to-soul connections that allow for remarkable healing interventions… She balances boards, and lives!
Ricochet's background
|
As a service dog trainer, our Executive Director, Judy Fridono had Ricochet’s life planned out from the moment she was born into our 501(c)3 non-profit organization, Puppy Prodigies. She was to be a service dog for a person with a disability. The only thing that was left out of the plan was Ricochet. She had plans of her own.
As a puppy, she was a brilliant, enthusiastic learner. But, at 14 weeks of age, she lost interest in training and shut down. We tried all kinds of things to motivate her again, but nothing worked. She also developed a propensity for chasing birds which could be a risk to a person with a disability. We were both frustrated. Then, fifteen months into her training, Ricochet was released from her service dog role. The presumed dead end became a journey of infinite possibilities when Judy finally embraced her true calling and amazing things began to unfold. |
Then the four-legged student became the teacher, showing Judy--and the world--just how much good one dog with a “think different, out-of-the-box” approach can do. Ricochet is living proof that if you let go of your expectations, and let others be who they truly are... it may turn out better than you could have ever imagined!
Life purpose/mission
Ricochet’s life purpose is to achieve her highest surfing paw'tential and to serve in the role of an assistive aid to persons with disabilities both in and out of the water. Her objective is to act as an ambassador and live a lifestyle of helping others by pawing it forward while raising awareness and funds for human/animal causes. Acting as a catalyst, our goal is to motivate and inspire others to find their unique life purpose and to help people understand the sentience of dogs.
Competitive surfing
Ricochet started surfing when she was eight weeks old on a boogie board in a kiddie pool. At fifteen months, she entered her first surf dog competition and won third place! From there, she entered and placed in the top three winning positions in most contests she entered. In 2014, she stopped competing to focus exclusively on adaptive surfing. However, she still surfs for fun, media and promotion.
Adaptive surfing - Canine Ambassador for Surfers with Disabilities®
Once we saw Ricochet in the ocean that first time she surfed with Patrick, we knew adaptive surfing was her life calling. Although we never taught her to surf with a disabled person, she intuitively knows how to adjust her surfing style based on their disability. For instance, if the person is lying on the board, Ricochet stands on the back. If they are sitting, kneeling or standing, she’s on the front of the board. Often kids who don’t have physical disabilities use her back end to hold onto as they stand up.
Since then, she’s surfed with hundreds and hundreds of kids and adults with varying disabilities. Click here to learn more about these talented athletes.
Since then, she’s surfed with hundreds and hundreds of kids and adults with varying disabilities. Click here to learn more about these talented athletes.
Official member of Team USA's adaptive surfing team
Ricochet is an official member of Team USA who is competing in the International Surfing Association's Adaptive Surfing Championship. This world championship brings surfers from around the world who have physical challenges to display their talents in a world-class competition. It began in 2015, and she was given the privilege to surf with Patrick Ivison in the Expression Session that year. She has been supporting adaptive athletes since 2009.
For more information, go to http://www.isasurf.org/development-programs/adaptive-surfing/
For more information, go to http://www.isasurf.org/development-programs/adaptive-surfing/
Paws-on healing
Ricochet has been blessed with extraordinary and powerful gifts. And because they've been nurtured, she has an exceptional level of healing mastery. People resonate with her and are drawn to her presence and energy. She's able to transform their blockages, painful memories and physical ailments. She can dissolve their pain and trauma. She releases their fear and reduces their hypervigilance.
She intuitively and empathically alerts and responds to their emotional and physical changes which allows for profound paws-on healing interventions. She especially helps children with autism and military with PTSD come out of the dark corners of their emotions to new pathways of free-spirited living.
She intuitively and empathically alerts and responds to their emotional and physical changes which allows for profound paws-on healing interventions. She especially helps children with autism and military with PTSD come out of the dark corners of their emotions to new pathways of free-spirited living.
Raising awareness
Ricochet’s video “From Service Dog to SURFice Dog®”, has over 14 million views on YouTube and Facebook. It creates an incredible amount of positive energy and exposure. The attention wasn't expected, but we re-direct it to causes that need it. For instance, having media at the Spinal Muscular Atrophy surf session resulted in some video footage being posted on Facebook. Over 3 million people saw that footage. That is 3 million people who now know what SMA is!
Docu-series
The following videos illustrate the ways in which Ricochet uses her surfing expertise and paws-on healing to help others. It includes examples of her empathy, mirroring, alerting, intuition, telepathy and spiritual healing.
|
|
|
Programs & initiatives
PTSD Battle Buddy Initiative
In the military, a battle buddy is your battlefield partner with whom you accomplish a common mission. Battle buddies are always ready to assist one another. Ricochet’s battle buddy is Staff Sergeant Randy Dexter.
Using the healing power of a dog in the fight against PTSD, Ricochet was the catalyst that helped empower Randy to gain back his independence. She also raised $10,000 to fund a service dog for him. Because Randy’s recovery is so remarkable, we created the PTSD Battle Buddy Initiative to help other veterans.
Every 65 minutes a veteran with PTSD dies by suicide. The video below shows what happened when Randy met Ricochet at minute 64.
In the military, a battle buddy is your battlefield partner with whom you accomplish a common mission. Battle buddies are always ready to assist one another. Ricochet’s battle buddy is Staff Sergeant Randy Dexter.
Using the healing power of a dog in the fight against PTSD, Ricochet was the catalyst that helped empower Randy to gain back his independence. She also raised $10,000 to fund a service dog for him. Because Randy’s recovery is so remarkable, we created the PTSD Battle Buddy Initiative to help other veterans.
Every 65 minutes a veteran with PTSD dies by suicide. The video below shows what happened when Randy met Ricochet at minute 64.
Waves of Empowerment
Our Waves of Empowerment program takes Ricochet's surf therapy, ocean therapy, paws-on healing and pawing it forward initiatives to the next level. It’s about inspiring and empowering military with PTSD and kids with special needs to help themselves by helping others. These are individuals that Ricochet has previously surfed or worked with, who are now volunteering to help the next wave of disabled surfers get on board with her!
Each veteran or adult becomes a mentor, and is matched one-on-one with a child who has special needs for a day of paws-on healing through canine-assisted surfing, paddling, swimming, playing and therapy. These activities are facilitated by Ricochet who is a registered, certified and top AKC titled therapy dog. The goal is to reduce social anxiety by engaging the veterans, adults and children in social activities that foster positive relationships.
The transition from service member to veteran can leave many with no sense of purpose after having such crucial jobs in the military. Through this unique model, we’re able to renew their spirits and give them a sense of purpose. When kids with autism are allowed to help other kids surf with Ricochet, it gives them a sense of worth. Their self-confidence blossoms and their accomplishments are endless. Just imagine how it makes a child feel to be independent and responsible for the well-being of a dog! This is what Waves of Empowerment is all about. Click here to read more about this program.
Operation Socialization
One of the most important aspects in puppy rearing is socialization. Puppies who do not get adequate socialization tend to be fearful of unfamiliar people, dogs, sounds, environments, etc. As such, we put a lot of emphasis on socialization.
On the other paw, military with PTSD have anxiety in social situations, and often withdraw and isolate themselves because they feel anxious in social situations. But, when they’re helping a puppy become socialized to a myriad of environments, they are helping themselves too. This initiative brings service and therapy dog puppies from birth through advanced training together with veterans suffering from PTSD. Click here to learn more about this program. Click here to learn more about this program.
One of the most important aspects in puppy rearing is socialization. Puppies who do not get adequate socialization tend to be fearful of unfamiliar people, dogs, sounds, environments, etc. As such, we put a lot of emphasis on socialization.
On the other paw, military with PTSD have anxiety in social situations, and often withdraw and isolate themselves because they feel anxious in social situations. But, when they’re helping a puppy become socialized to a myriad of environments, they are helping themselves too. This initiative brings service and therapy dog puppies from birth through advanced training together with veterans suffering from PTSD. Click here to learn more about this program. Click here to learn more about this program.
Make A Wish
Caleb was a 15 year old boy with stage 4 brain and spine cancer. When Make-A-Wish asked what he wished for, he said to surf with Ricochet. Caleb was one of the most inspiring kids we know. Despite the pain and challenges he endured, he always had a smile on his face.
Caleb was a 15 year old boy with stage 4 brain and spine cancer. When Make-A-Wish asked what he wished for, he said to surf with Ricochet. Caleb was one of the most inspiring kids we know. Despite the pain and challenges he endured, he always had a smile on his face.
ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championship
The world’s best adaptive surfers compete for individual and team medals. The competitors represent their countries and have the opportunity to come together in the spirit of fair competition.
The world’s best adaptive surfers compete for individual and team medals. The competitors represent their countries and have the opportunity to come together in the spirit of fair competition.
Anti-bullying
Ricochet is a dog who stayed true to herself despite the expectations of others. She stayed true to herself despite being sensitive, and not standing up for herself when bullied by other dogs. Ricochet goes to schools to bark about the work she does, and instills the concept of individuality and being perfect the way you are. Click here for more info.
Ricochet is a dog who stayed true to herself despite the expectations of others. She stayed true to herself despite being sensitive, and not standing up for herself when bullied by other dogs. Ricochet goes to schools to bark about the work she does, and instills the concept of individuality and being perfect the way you are. Click here for more info.
Canine Inspired Community Re-integration (CICR)
This therapy dog program is through Paws’itive Teams and Naval Medical Center. The program helps active duty military with PTSD make the transition back into the civilian world through canine therapy. The dogs are handled by the service members for two hours at a time over a six week period. The goal of the program is for service members to experience a reduction in their anxiety and other PTSD symptoms by having a dog accompany them.
This therapy dog program is through Paws’itive Teams and Naval Medical Center. The program helps active duty military with PTSD make the transition back into the civilian world through canine therapy. The dogs are handled by the service members for two hours at a time over a six week period. The goal of the program is for service members to experience a reduction in their anxiety and other PTSD symptoms by having a dog accompany them.
Surf for SMA
Every summer we hold a surf session for kids with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in an effort to give them a thrill of a lifetime and to raise awareness of the disease. SMA robs individuals of physical strength by affecting the motor nerve cells in the spinal cord, taking away the ability to stand, sit, crawl, walk, swallow food effectively, or breathe. It is the number one genetic cause of death for infants.
Every summer we hold a surf session for kids with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in an effort to give them a thrill of a lifetime and to raise awareness of the disease. SMA robs individuals of physical strength by affecting the motor nerve cells in the spinal cord, taking away the ability to stand, sit, crawl, walk, swallow food effectively, or breathe. It is the number one genetic cause of death for infants.
Paw it forward
Ricochet was asked to be the ambassador for Pay It Forward Day because she lives a lifestyle of pawing it forward for human & animal causes. Click here for more info.
Ricochet was asked to be the ambassador for Pay It Forward Day because she lives a lifestyle of pawing it forward for human & animal causes. Click here for more info.
Autism Surf Camp
For six weeks during the summer, the Autism Society San Diego holds a surf camp for kids with autism. There is a new group of kids every week. Ricochet surfs with the kids, but we present it to them as they are helping the dog surf. This gives them a sense of independence and empowerment.
For six weeks during the summer, the Autism Society San Diego holds a surf camp for kids with autism. There is a new group of kids every week. Ricochet surfs with the kids, but we present it to them as they are helping the dog surf. This gives them a sense of independence and empowerment.
Veteran's Adaptive Sports Camp - Surf Clinic
For one week each September, the VA holds an adaptive sports camp for disabled veterans. One of the clinics is surfing and Ricochet attends to surf and interact with the veterans.
For one week each September, the VA holds an adaptive sports camp for disabled veterans. One of the clinics is surfing and Ricochet attends to surf and interact with the veterans.
Beautifully Flawed Retreat - Friends of Bethany Hamilton
Friends of Bethany Hamilton hosts a retreat each fall to inspire, strengthen, and teach young female amputees to use their physical difference as a platform to shine a bright light to others! One of the retreat days is for surfing, and Ricochet has been invited to attend and surf with the girls.
Friends of Bethany Hamilton hosts a retreat each fall to inspire, strengthen, and teach young female amputees to use their physical difference as a platform to shine a bright light to others! One of the retreat days is for surfing, and Ricochet has been invited to attend and surf with the girls.
Fundraising
Ricochet has held over 100 fundraisers for more than 250 different human and animal causes. She has raised over $500,000… that’s a half million dollars! For a complete list of the fundraisers and campaigns Ricochet has held, go to http://www.surfdogricochet.com/donors--beneficiaries.html.
Our non-profit, Puppy Prodigies
Ricochets SURFice dog® initiatives are part of our 501(c)3 non-profit, Puppy Prodigies. We train service dogs for people with disabilities. Our main focus is on puppies from birth until 7 weeks of age. This is the time their brains are still developing and we implement many different exercises to keep the neurons firing. We also serve as a resource to puppies born in many different circumstances, such as service dog organizations, shelters, rescues, etc.
Inspiration and role model
Because of Ricochet’s far reaching influence, she is an inspirational role model to millions of people from all walks of life. She inspires people to allow themselves and others to be who they truly are... without judgment or intention to change. To focus on what they CAN do, which allows for a celebration of amazing outcomes! She promotes staying true to yourself, anti-bullying, kindness, charity, philanthropy, and social responsibility, such as her video "It gets better: You're amazing just the way you are" for individuals who are bullied.
Dog parents often ask us how their dog can do what Ricochet does. We always respond by explaining that every dog is an individual who has their own life purpose. So rather than trying to emulate what Ricochet is doing, we suggest they ask their dog what they want to do. Our dogs are always communicating with us, we just have to listen. Try it, and unleash your dog’s healing power too!
Certifications
AKC Therapy Dog Distinguished (THDD), 400+ visits
Therapy Dogs Inc registered therapy dog
Pawsitive Teams certified goal directed therapy dog
Swimming With Autism certification
Water rescue with the SICS Italian School of Water Rescue Dogs
Therapy Dogs Inc registered therapy dog
Pawsitive Teams certified goal directed therapy dog
Swimming With Autism certification
Water rescue with the SICS Italian School of Water Rescue Dogs
Credentials
Our Executive Director, Judy Fridono has an associate’s degree in Assistance Dog Training from the Bergin Institute of Canine Studies. She has also been a certified dog trainer and attended many canine education seminars. Our volunteers have thousands of hours of water experience, making adaptions for each disability. Ricochet has hundreds and hundreds of hours working with individuals with disabilities. She has the temperament, and advanced training of a service dog, and serves in many different roles.
|
Service dog
Ricochet has over two years of service dog training, and over 10 years working with individuals with disabilities. She's been trained specific tasks to mitigate a person’s disability. As such, she’s a service dog when she’s working one-on-one with a person who is disabled like a veteran with PTSD or a child with autism. That one-on-one work carries over to the beach when she’s interacting or surfing to mitigate the individual’s disability. Therapy dog
Ricochet is certified goal directed therapy dog with Paws’itive teams, and a registered therapy dog with Alliance of Therapy Dogs (formerly Therapy Dogs Inc), she also has the highest AKC title of Therapy Dog Distinguished. When Ricochet is representing organizations that registered or certified her, she is considered a therapy dog. |
SURFice dog©
is a play on words for service dog. We gave Ricochet that title to differentiate between her one-on-one service dog work on land, and her one-on-one work while surfing with individuals who need her assistance. Working with adaptive surfing organizations, and special needs kids is the perfect platform for Ricochet to utilize her service dog training, surfing skills, and experience with disabilities. Emotional support dog
Ricochet is also involved in the Emotional Support Dog Program through Paws'itive Teams. Our Executive Director is on the steering committee and also helps teach the classes that are designed specifically for veterans with PTSD or TBI. Often, when Ricochet is working one-on-one as a therapy dog, she will switch between acting as a therapy dog and emotional support dog. |
Partnerships
Autism Society, San Diego
Naval Hospital, San Diego
Paws'itive Teams
Camp Pendleton - Marine Corps Community Services
County of San Diego, Live Well San Diego
Navy Region Southwest Morale, Welfare & Recreation program
Naval Hospital, San Diego
Paws'itive Teams
Camp Pendleton - Marine Corps Community Services
County of San Diego, Live Well San Diego
Navy Region Southwest Morale, Welfare & Recreation program
Endorsements
After five days of water rescue training in both the pool and ocean from the SICS Italian School of Water Rescue Dogs, their founder, Ferruccio Pilenga and his dog Mas who started the SICS program, endorsed our canine-assisted swimming program.
Taking responsibility
Ricochet takes her SURFice job very seriously. You will rarely see her smiling on the surfboard. She takes responsibility for whoever she is helping. She doesn’t want a person going into environments they’re uncomfortable in. She tries to stop them from doing things that she thinks can be harmful based on the emotions she’s feeling from them. The best representation of this is a short, slow motion video that shows 8 year old West who has autism. They both jumped off the board as it neared shore. Ricochet didn't take her eyes of him until he made eye contact with her. Even though it was just a second of eye contact, she was assured that he was fine. Then, and only then did she run off to the beach.
Safety & liability
We literally have people’s lives in our hands and paws. We put people with disabilities on a surfboard in the ocean which is a liability in itself. But throw a dog in the mix and the liability goes up significantly. We take this very seriously as safety is our top priority. Therefore, we have liability insurance through our non-profit that covers Ricochet, participants and volunteers. But just as important, we have experienced water men and women with many years of surfing, disability and adaptation experience.
Ambassador positions
Canine Ambassador for Surfers with Disabilities®
When Ricochet made the decision to jump on a disabled boy's surfboard, she started a revolution! She is a trail blazer and leader of the pack. She was the first dog to make a commitment to assist surfers with disabilities. Thus, her Ambassadorship!
The Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation's
Ocean Therapy program, working with the marines at Camp Pendleton.
The Best Day Foundation
A volunteer organization that helps children with special needs build confidence and self-esteem through safe, fun, adventure activities.
Life Rolls On
Surf and skate events for wheelchair athletes.
Pay It Forward Day
Inspires over 10 million acts of kindness around the world.
San Diego Metro Fleet & Family Readiness Programs
Navy Woof Walk: Raises funds for Navy Quality of Life Programs.
When Ricochet made the decision to jump on a disabled boy's surfboard, she started a revolution! She is a trail blazer and leader of the pack. She was the first dog to make a commitment to assist surfers with disabilities. Thus, her Ambassadorship!
The Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation's
Ocean Therapy program, working with the marines at Camp Pendleton.
The Best Day Foundation
A volunteer organization that helps children with special needs build confidence and self-esteem through safe, fun, adventure activities.
Life Rolls On
Surf and skate events for wheelchair athletes.
Pay It Forward Day
Inspires over 10 million acts of kindness around the world.
San Diego Metro Fleet & Family Readiness Programs
Navy Woof Walk: Raises funds for Navy Quality of Life Programs.
Campaigns
Go to Ricochet's fundraising page to see a complete list of the 100 campaigns she's held for over 250 human and animal causes, raising over $500,000!
Media/Paw'parazzi
Ricochet has been featured in hundreds of media sources all over the world, showcasing and raising awareness of her causes, SURFice dog work and surfing. Please visit her media page for a comprehensive representation of media shes' been in, as well as magazines, books, billboards, movies, commercials, calendars, music videos, public service announcements, documentaries, halls of fame, celebrity meetings and more!
Just for fun
Ricochet also enjoys dock jumping, ball chasing, digging for gophers, chasing critters, lurecoursing, birds and squirrels!
Donate
Click the donate button below to support Ricochet's work.
Coming soon
Ricochet is also slated to be one of five dogs featured in an IMAX film Superpower Dogs. This 2-3 year project will give us the opportunity to push the limits and help educate others about the extraordinary healing abilities of dogs. It is our hope that the information gained during this project will shed more light on the influence dogs have on the physical and emotional well-being of humans. The premiere is scheduled for March of 2019.
Super Power Dogs IMAX 3D Movie - 2019
|
The Secret Life of Dogs TV show - Spring, 2017
|
Casting calls
Ricochet is also a model, actor, author & celebrity. She's available for casting calls, television, commercials, films, documentaries, live appearances and more. Just call 707-228-0679 or send an email to pawinspired@aol.com.
Contact
pawinspired@aol.com
707-228-0679
707-228-0679
Join mailing list
Watch an ESPN segment about
Surf Dog Ricochet's work. |
|
Titles, awards & honors
Ricochet has received many awards including the prestigious AKC Award for Canine Excellence, The American Humane Associations Hero Dog Award, and Dog of the Year from the ASPCA. She is also in two surf dog halls of fame. You can see complete coverage of her awards at this link, or see the lists below.
Titles, awards & honors
Canine Good Citizen
Certified Therapy Dog
Registered Therapy Dog
AKC Certified Therapy Dog, THD
Was an extra in the movie Marmaduke
2009 DogTipper, Top 10 Dog Stars of 2009
In the 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014 Surf Dogs Calendar
Won the 2010 Helen Woodward Billboard contest with fellow surFURS, Nani, Dozer & Toby
2010 USA Today Dog Hero
2010 Petopia TV, Pet of the Year
2010 Dogswell Wag Award "Most Charitable Story"
2010 Morris Animal Foundation K9 Cancer Walk, Top Fundraiser
2010 Arthritis Walk with Leash Your Fitness, Top Fundraiser
2010 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Foundation, honoree
2010 Helen Woodward Surf Dog A Thon, 1st place "Top Fundraiser".
2010 The American Kennel Club Humane Fund Ace Award for Canine Excellence for Exemplary Companion Dog
2010 Dog Town San Diego's 3 dog walk for breast cancer, Top Fundraiser
2010 Nominated for three Humanitarian Awards in the American Dog Magazine, Spokesdog for a charitable cause, Service/Therapy dog that gives unconditionally & Role model/philanthropist
2010 won 1st place in American Dog Magazine's Humanitarian Awards for Role model/philanthropist, 2nd place for Spokesdog for charitable cause & 2nd place for Service/Therapy dog that gives unconditionally
2010 named Best dog of the year in DogTipper.com's Best dog & cat of the year contest
2010 Nominated in USA Today's 2010 Top Dog Hero contest
2010 Made it to the finals in the Natural Balance parade float try-outs for skimboarding
2011 Awarded the Gold Standard Award from The Golden Retriever Club of America
2011 Featured in five books
2011 Named Fido Friendly's Best of 2011
2011 Working Class K9 Hero Award, Pet Sitters International & Take Your Dog to Work Day
2011 American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards, emerging hero category
2011 Dog of the Year, ASPCA
2011 Top Ten Most Memorable Dogs of 2011, A Place to Love Dogs
2011 Top 25 Pet People of 2011, Petside
2011 Top 10 Unsung Heroes of 2011, Take Part
2011 Top 10 Dogs of 2011, Cesar's Way
2012 PAWS Companion for Life Award!
2013 San Diego Humane Society's Animal Compassion Award
2013 Swim With Mike Ambassador
2013 Ambassador for Navy Quality of Life Programs Woof Walk
2014 Featured in three books
2014 Published hard cover book, Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope With the Dog Who Inspires Millions
2014 Ambassador for Navy Quality of Life Programs Woof Walk
2014 Swim With Mike Ambassador
2015 Published paperback book, Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope With the Dog Who Inspires Millions
2015 Published Japanese edition of Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope With the Dog Who Inspires Millions
2015 Created plush "Surf Dog Ricochet" dog
2015 4 legged hero for Unstoppable Heroes
2015 Surf Dog Hall of Fame, Helen Woodward Animal Center
2015 Surf Dog Walk of Fame, International Surfing Museum
2015 Subaru Pet Hall of Fame Finalist
2015 Ambassador for Navy Quality of Life Programs Woof Walk
2015 ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championships Expression Session
2015 Swim With Mike Ambassador
2015 San Diego Autism Society Surf Camp
2015 Best Day Ambassador award
2016 Doggie Street Festival Hero Dog Award
2017 Became a mascot and team member of Team USA adaptive surfing team
Surf dog competition medals
2009 Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Surf Dog Competition at Dog Beach in San Diego:
Third Place Large Dogs
2009 Helen Woodward Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in Del Mar, California:
First Place Large Dog Heat
Second Place Over All
2009 Surf City Surf Dog Competition in Huntington Beach, California:
First Place Large Dog Heat
Second Place Large Dog Finals
2010 Loews Coronado Surf Dog Competition in Imperial Beach, California:
First Place Tandem
2010 Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Surf Dog Competition at Dog Beach in San Diego:
Third Place Large Dogs
2010 SPN Surf Dog Competition, in Huntington Beach, California:
Second Place
2010 Helen Woodward Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in Del Mar, California:
Second Place Large Dog Heat
2010 Surf City Surf Dog Competition in Huntington Beach, California:
First Place Large Dogs
Third Place Large Dog Finals
Best Wipeout!
Best Crowd Pleaser
2011 Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Surf Dog Competition at Dog Beach in San Diego:
Second Place Large Dogs
2011 Helen Woodward Animal Center Surf dog Surf-a-thon
First place, Large Dog 2nd Heat
2012 Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Surf Dog Competition at Dog Beach in San Diego"
Second place, tandem category.
2012 Loews Coronado Surf Dog Competition in Imperial Beach, California:
First place, large dogs
2nd place tandem with Cameron Mathison
2012 Helen Woodward Animal Center Surf dog Surf-a-thon
1st place large dog heat #2
1st place best of surf finals
2nd place doo the dah
1st place highest fundraiser - $7340
2013 Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf dog contest, 3rd place large dogs
2013 Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf dog contest, 3rd place tandem
2013 Helen Woodward Animal Center Surf dog Surf-a-thon - 1st place large dog category
2014 Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition
1st place medium dogs
2nd place tandem
2015 Retired from competitive surfing
Canine Good Citizen
Certified Therapy Dog
Registered Therapy Dog
AKC Certified Therapy Dog, THD
Was an extra in the movie Marmaduke
2009 DogTipper, Top 10 Dog Stars of 2009
In the 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014 Surf Dogs Calendar
Won the 2010 Helen Woodward Billboard contest with fellow surFURS, Nani, Dozer & Toby
2010 USA Today Dog Hero
2010 Petopia TV, Pet of the Year
2010 Dogswell Wag Award "Most Charitable Story"
2010 Morris Animal Foundation K9 Cancer Walk, Top Fundraiser
2010 Arthritis Walk with Leash Your Fitness, Top Fundraiser
2010 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Foundation, honoree
2010 Helen Woodward Surf Dog A Thon, 1st place "Top Fundraiser".
2010 The American Kennel Club Humane Fund Ace Award for Canine Excellence for Exemplary Companion Dog
2010 Dog Town San Diego's 3 dog walk for breast cancer, Top Fundraiser
2010 Nominated for three Humanitarian Awards in the American Dog Magazine, Spokesdog for a charitable cause, Service/Therapy dog that gives unconditionally & Role model/philanthropist
2010 won 1st place in American Dog Magazine's Humanitarian Awards for Role model/philanthropist, 2nd place for Spokesdog for charitable cause & 2nd place for Service/Therapy dog that gives unconditionally
2010 named Best dog of the year in DogTipper.com's Best dog & cat of the year contest
2010 Nominated in USA Today's 2010 Top Dog Hero contest
2010 Made it to the finals in the Natural Balance parade float try-outs for skimboarding
2011 Awarded the Gold Standard Award from The Golden Retriever Club of America
2011 Featured in five books
2011 Named Fido Friendly's Best of 2011
2011 Working Class K9 Hero Award, Pet Sitters International & Take Your Dog to Work Day
2011 American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards, emerging hero category
2011 Dog of the Year, ASPCA
2011 Top Ten Most Memorable Dogs of 2011, A Place to Love Dogs
2011 Top 25 Pet People of 2011, Petside
2011 Top 10 Unsung Heroes of 2011, Take Part
2011 Top 10 Dogs of 2011, Cesar's Way
2012 PAWS Companion for Life Award!
2013 San Diego Humane Society's Animal Compassion Award
2013 Swim With Mike Ambassador
2013 Ambassador for Navy Quality of Life Programs Woof Walk
2014 Featured in three books
2014 Published hard cover book, Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope With the Dog Who Inspires Millions
2014 Ambassador for Navy Quality of Life Programs Woof Walk
2014 Swim With Mike Ambassador
2015 Published paperback book, Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope With the Dog Who Inspires Millions
2015 Published Japanese edition of Ricochet: Riding a Wave of Hope With the Dog Who Inspires Millions
2015 Created plush "Surf Dog Ricochet" dog
2015 4 legged hero for Unstoppable Heroes
2015 Surf Dog Hall of Fame, Helen Woodward Animal Center
2015 Surf Dog Walk of Fame, International Surfing Museum
2015 Subaru Pet Hall of Fame Finalist
2015 Ambassador for Navy Quality of Life Programs Woof Walk
2015 ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championships Expression Session
2015 Swim With Mike Ambassador
2015 San Diego Autism Society Surf Camp
2015 Best Day Ambassador award
2016 Doggie Street Festival Hero Dog Award
2017 Became a mascot and team member of Team USA adaptive surfing team
Surf dog competition medals
2009 Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Surf Dog Competition at Dog Beach in San Diego:
Third Place Large Dogs
2009 Helen Woodward Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in Del Mar, California:
First Place Large Dog Heat
Second Place Over All
2009 Surf City Surf Dog Competition in Huntington Beach, California:
First Place Large Dog Heat
Second Place Large Dog Finals
2010 Loews Coronado Surf Dog Competition in Imperial Beach, California:
First Place Tandem
2010 Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Surf Dog Competition at Dog Beach in San Diego:
Third Place Large Dogs
2010 SPN Surf Dog Competition, in Huntington Beach, California:
Second Place
2010 Helen Woodward Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in Del Mar, California:
Second Place Large Dog Heat
2010 Surf City Surf Dog Competition in Huntington Beach, California:
First Place Large Dogs
Third Place Large Dog Finals
Best Wipeout!
Best Crowd Pleaser
2011 Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Surf Dog Competition at Dog Beach in San Diego:
Second Place Large Dogs
2011 Helen Woodward Animal Center Surf dog Surf-a-thon
First place, Large Dog 2nd Heat
2012 Purina Incredible Dog Challenge Surf Dog Competition at Dog Beach in San Diego"
Second place, tandem category.
2012 Loews Coronado Surf Dog Competition in Imperial Beach, California:
First place, large dogs
2nd place tandem with Cameron Mathison
2012 Helen Woodward Animal Center Surf dog Surf-a-thon
1st place large dog heat #2
1st place best of surf finals
2nd place doo the dah
1st place highest fundraiser - $7340
2013 Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf dog contest, 3rd place large dogs
2013 Loews Coronado Bay Resort Surf dog contest, 3rd place tandem
2013 Helen Woodward Animal Center Surf dog Surf-a-thon - 1st place large dog category
2014 Unleashed by Petco Surf Dog Competition
1st place medium dogs
2nd place tandem
2015 Retired from competitive surfing
Surf dog/SURFice dog appearances
* Community events
* Surf events
* Media events
* Surfing demonstrations
* Surf camps
* Adaptive surf clinics
* US Open of Surfing
* Athletic events for kids with special needs
* Paw it forward events
* Shelter & rescue animal events
* Schools
* Wounded warrior events
* Military with PTSD activities
* Hospitals
* Fundraisers
* Raffles
* Auctions
* Corporate meetings
* Parades
* Expos
* Trade shows
* Company picnics
* Therapy dog events
* Service dog events
* Best Day
* Wheels 2 Water
* AmpSurf
* Life Rolls On
* Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation
* Veteran's Surf Camps
* And more!
Celebrity appearances
* Casting calls
* Billboards
* Commercials
* TV programs & events
* Hollywood events
* Red carpet events
* Movie roles
* Movie premieres
* Photo shoots
* Award shows
* Times Square advertising
* Las Vegas advertising
* Radio shows
* Public Service Announcements
* Promotional events
* Trading cards
* Telethons
* Screenings
* Documentaries
* News segments
* Music videos
* Calendars
* Fundraising events
* Bark Buckle Up
* Pay it Forward
* Reality Rally
* K9 cancer walks
* US Open of Surfing
* Sit n' Stay Global private jet spokesdog
* Loews Hotel Promo video
* Project Save our Surf
* Extra in Marmaduke Movie
* Role in Rina's Magic Bracelet movie
* Zoom Room
* Cesar Dog Food model
* Dog tea
* And more!
* Community events
* Surf events
* Media events
* Surfing demonstrations
* Surf camps
* Adaptive surf clinics
* US Open of Surfing
* Athletic events for kids with special needs
* Paw it forward events
* Shelter & rescue animal events
* Schools
* Wounded warrior events
* Military with PTSD activities
* Hospitals
* Fundraisers
* Raffles
* Auctions
* Corporate meetings
* Parades
* Expos
* Trade shows
* Company picnics
* Therapy dog events
* Service dog events
* Best Day
* Wheels 2 Water
* AmpSurf
* Life Rolls On
* Jimmy Miller Memorial Foundation
* Veteran's Surf Camps
* And more!
Celebrity appearances
* Casting calls
* Billboards
* Commercials
* TV programs & events
* Hollywood events
* Red carpet events
* Movie roles
* Movie premieres
* Photo shoots
* Award shows
* Times Square advertising
* Las Vegas advertising
* Radio shows
* Public Service Announcements
* Promotional events
* Trading cards
* Telethons
* Screenings
* Documentaries
* News segments
* Music videos
* Calendars
* Fundraising events
* Bark Buckle Up
* Pay it Forward
* Reality Rally
* K9 cancer walks
* US Open of Surfing
* Sit n' Stay Global private jet spokesdog
* Loews Hotel Promo video
* Project Save our Surf
* Extra in Marmaduke Movie
* Role in Rina's Magic Bracelet movie
* Zoom Room
* Cesar Dog Food model
* Dog tea
* And more!