The sport of surfing helped many find salvation in the ocean’s infinity. From specially-abled people to the folks who seek solace from depression and anxiety, the sea welcomes everyone with open arms. Now, to cater to the needs of those who faced difficulty paddling in the ocean because of some physical challenges, a surfing dog from California helped them find solace in the sea.

Ricochet is a female golden retriever from San Diego, who assisted hundreds of kids with special needs and people with disabilities by escorting them into the ocean’s tranquility. She has been working with veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and wounded warriors since she was just 15 months old. From winning dog surfing championships to aiding people in need, Ricochet has covered it all. More so, the therapy dog made a haven in the hearts of millions through her kind service.

Ricochet: a dog, who surfed with purpose

As per the report of Paw Buzz, since her birth, Ricochet has been trained to be a service dog. When she was just 15 months old, she voluntarily jumped onto a board of a paralyzed kid and assisted him in paddling through the ocean. Since then, Ricochet became the first ever canine-assisted surf therapy dog.

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Interestingly, she helped many by succoring them by her extraordinary healing abilities. She surfed, helped those in distress, and won hearts during the process. Ricochet’s owner Judy Fridano stated, “ I wanted her to make a difference in one life, and she’s touched millions and millions now”. The surf therapy dog even helped raise money for different charities.

In 2022, the Golden retriever met the milestone of raising over $ 1 million for over 250 different animal and human causes. Now, it’s been 15 years since Ricochet is making waves through her selfless service to people in need. However, last year, she got diagnosed with a chronic ailment and hence caught her last wave with a purple heart recipient.

A disease that became a hurdle for Ricochet

Last year, Ricochet got diagnosed with cancer and hence she faced multiple health challenges. Therefore, in August 2022, an army veteran and purple heart recipient, Jose Martinez got on the board to help the Golden retriever catch her last wave. Ricochet’s guardian, Judy Fridano conceded, “I thought Ricochet might catch a wave or two, but she kept going. She was so happy. It was a beautiful ending to a beautiful surfing story”.

Moreover, Martinez who helped the therapy dog on her last voyage won the gold medal at the 2021 ISA World Para Surfing championships. “It’s like her story came full circle. She helped so many others catch waves all these years, and when she needed help, who better than Jose”, added Fridano. Ricochet indeed reached the hearts of millions through her altruism and soul-touching surf therapy- and that’s the story of the dog who surfed with purpose. 

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