Diamonds, sapphires and emeralds have their place, but the new queen of safe digging prefers red at the center of her jewelry case. Ruby, a one-and-a-half-year-old dog from Tomahawk, has been named as Wisconsin Public Service’s (WPS) next safe digging “ambassadog.”
Ruby will spend the next year reminding everyone to contact 811 at least three days before starting any digging project. The English cream golden retriever will shine bright on digital billboards across northeast and north-central Wisconsin tomorrow on Aug. 11 (8/11), National Safe Digging Day.
WPS customers and dog lovers alike voted more than 13,000 times for the 10 finalists in this year’s safe digging ambassadog contest. Ruby captured the hearts of people across northeast and north-central Wisconsin, earning 60% of the pup-ular vote.
Playful pup earns canine crown jewel
Ruby has been a precious gem of a pup long before she became the top dog of safe digging. When her family was looking to add a dog, Ruby wasn’t shy about tumbling around or showing her affection during a meeting with them. Her family quickly fell in love with Ruby’s playful nature, deciding to bring her home as their first-ever dog.
Ruby is an outdoor dog to her core — her favorite spots to dig are the beach in the summer and in the snow during the winter. When she’s not digging, she loves to swim, play with her human siblings and watch birds at her home.
Look for Ruby’s important reminder about contacting 811 on the WPS social media channels all year long.
About 811
Since 2024, more than 150 WPS underground lines have been damaged because someone didn’t call 811 three days before digging. These instances put residents and communities at risk of utility outages, costly repairs and serious injuries.
Whether you’re planting a garden or installing a fence, it’s important to have the location of underground utilities marked to keep yourself and your family safe. Calling 811 or notifying Diggers Hotline is easy, it’s free and it’s the law.