Meet Our Ruff Ridge Team!
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Tori Pearce, Owner
Tori Pearce, DPT, is the owner of Ruff Ridge Retreat, where they blend a love for dogs with a passion for movement, structure, and wellness. With a background in physical therapy, Tori brings an intentional, active approach to careβmaking sure every dog gets the attention, enrichment, and routine they need to thrive.
Outside of Ruff Ridge, you can usually find Tori hiking, biking, trail running, traveling, or on their yoga mat. Theyβre incredibly grateful to work alongside an awesome team (including their husband Nate) who help make Ruff Ridge such a special place for both dogs and their people.
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Kenna Deets
I moved to this area about three years ago and Iβve fallen in love with these mountains. I love to spend my free time outdoors and checking out local trails. Canβt wait to meet your pets!
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Ellie Duncan
Whether itβs daily walks, drop-in visits, overnight care, or simply giving pets extra attention and companionship, I treat every animal like family. I understand how important trust and consistency are when it comes to pet care, and Iβm committed to creating a calm, comfortable experience for both pets and their owners. I have a genuine love for animals and enjoy building relationships with each petβs unique personality and needs. From energetic dogs to shy cats, Iβm patient, attentive, and dedicated to making sure every pet receives the care and affection they deserve.
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Carter Grace
Iβve been house sitting and working with animals for what seems like my entire life. I fell in love with doggos at an early age and built my career around them. Not only because of my passion for all animals and the meaningful impact I believe I have on their well-being, but also for how doggos and puppies significantly improve my emotional and mental health. I love building a relationship with them, learning their personalities, likes and dislikes, as well as connecting with their owners! My life wouldnβt be complete without their furry souls! I can never imagine not working with dogs, kitties, or any animal that comes my way! I've been working for Ruff Ridge Retreat for almost a year and a half now. I have my own puppy clients as well as Tori's and I work as a coach and trainer for the YMCA in Hendersonville
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Kristen Williams
I enjoy reading, tennis, being outside, and jigsaw puzzles. I work for a girls summer camp and the first group is starting soon! I don't work for Tori much during the summer but look forward to meeting you whenever that may be!
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Abigail Kantner
I live in Hendersonville, raised here most of my life, and love my mountains! If you ever want a hiking buddy let me know! I've been working with Tori for only a short time but enjoy it every day! Looking forward to meeting you!
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Jen Dinsmore
My name is Jen, I work remotely as an operations manager for a graphic apparel company. I have two dogs of my own. I've been pet sitting in total for over 2 years, with Tori over a year. Iβve loved animals my entire life so decided to start pet sitting part time and have loved every second of it! In my free time I enjoy aerial silks and hiking/being outdoors π
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Heather Hefner
Iβve always had a deep love for dogs and the joy they bring to our lives. Working as a dog walker and sitter allows me to combine my passion for animals with helping people feel at ease knowing they pets are cared for like family. I love getting to know each dogβs unique personality - whether itβs a playful pup who loves long walks or a snuggly companion who enjoys quiet time. For me, itβs more than a job - itβs building trust, creating happy memories, and giving dogs attention, exercise, and love they deserve. I've been working at ruff ridge for about 6 months. I love dogs and also work at a local kennel. I have two teenagers who keep me pretty busy.
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Genny Montes-Ramos
Hey there everyone! My name is Genesis. People call me Genny. I am originally born and raised in Puerto Rico. Been in the Asheville area since 2016 and it feels like my second home. I love spending my time outdoors or practicing jiujitsu. I enjoy meeting new furry friends and am excited to be part of this team where I get to do that.
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Abbey George
I have three dogs of my own. π I have been working with Ruff Ridge for about a year now. I work at Pardee as well. I have two kids, which keep me on the go with sports! I enjoy running, hiking, soccer, anything outdoors. I have always loved animals and try to be involved with them however I can be. π
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Robin Gardner
Bio
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Justine Redden
Iβve been living in Asheville for almost 9 years, and have been pet sitting on and off for that same amount of time! I work full time at MANNA FoodBank. I have been with the Ruff Ridge team for a few months!
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Kerri Jackson
Kerri is a Hendersonville native and has lived in WNC all her life. As a former farm owner sheβs cared for many types of animals including dogs, cats, chickens, rabbits, donkeys, cows and others. Sheβs worked as a birth doula and childbirth educator and in several social work positions from case management with people experiencing homelessness to coordinating a local food bank. Kerri loves to travel, eat and exercise and spend time with her three adult children.
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Shelby Newberry
I've been in North Carolina for almost a year now and love it. My dog, Blu, just turned 2 in May. I coach a club volleyball team which takes up most of my time.
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Jules Wright
Bio