Big and cuddly. Regal and famous. Friendly, fun and eager to please…

That’s Rufio, a Neapolitan Mastiff from Plainfield who’s out to set the world on fire!

Kathryn Dunlap, Rufio’s pet parent, knew Rufio was something special ever since he joined the family as a weeks-old puppy. He had a knack for making people feel good and smile, so Kathryn decided to put his innate charm to work

to make the world a better place.

She started by entering Rufio in a greeting card contest, believing that his cute mug would fascinate and attract the masses. It did. Up to 6,000 applicants submit photos to participate and Rufio has won not only one, but four of these contests! His newest card will be on the market this spring to celebrate graduation.

It’s not just cards, either. Kathryn enters Rufio into every contest she can and if Rufio wins a prize that isn’t personal, the prize is donated, most frequently to a humane society in Plainfield. On one occasion, they donated a year of free Greenies brand dog treats!

In addition to the donation of prize winnings, Kathryn also gives 20% of the profits from Rufio’s Rumblings, their very own line of fun, hand-glittered cards, to the Renaissance Great Danes and Neopolitan Mastiffs organization.

Those prize winnings can add up, too. A short time ago, Rufio won a $10,000 prize and was invited to participate in a PetSmart commercial in Los Angeles, California. The family drove since they feel it is cruel for Rufio and his siblings (two Great Dane sisters) to fly. Rufio loved the attention he received while sporting a Mohawk and leather vest down Rodeo Drive. He even met Ricky Gervais and the famous comedian helped Rufio’s success go viral.

Rufio doesn’t take his success lightly, though. His and Kathryn’s mission is to help canines and people everywhere and Rufio tries to be available whenever needed. Recently, he even lent his face for The Pawpered Chef Cookbook. Proceeds from this fundraiser will all go to Save the Giants, a rescue organization specifically for dogs who are gentle giants.

The future for Rufio is wide open, but right now he’s doing what he loves best: helping out where he can do the most good. Rufio visits hospice patients, schools and any business where he can light up someone’s day.

All that hard work deserves a break, so if you run into Rufio and Kathryn at the coffee shop, be sure to say hello! Rufio is one dog you don’t want to miss.