Meet our dedicated team

CEO and Co-Founder of New Hope Assistance Dogs, Inc., Barbara Ruhlman, has over 50 years of experience with dogs, especially German Shepherds, her breed of choice. Barb is highly motivated and has strong public relations skills. She has worked with many local and regional Law Enforcement Agencies in missing persons cases, search and rescue missions, building and school searches, and more. In addition, Barb was an obedience instructor at the YWCA in Western NY and PA.

With her unparalleled expertise and passion, Mrs. Ruhlman has dedicated herself to ensuring that Veterans in need have the opportunity to experience the life-changing benefits of a Service Dog. Her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to this cause have truly made a difference in the lives of countless individuals. Through her innovative approach and compassionate heart, Mrs. Ruhlman is not only enhancing the lives of Veterans but also setting a powerful example for others to follow.

These are just a handful of the certifications that Barb holds during her lifetime of working with dogs.

*Certifications such as Canine Drug Detection, Bomb Detection, Mountaineering Rescue Training, and Tracking and Human Remains Detection Training.

*Barb is a graduate of Krommerhaus Kennels Training School in Bethlehem, PA, where she was certified in Kennel Management, Schutzhund Training, Tracking, Police K-9, and Obedience.

*Certified from NASAR in Search and Rescue Tech III - Training Water Search Dogs and air scent training.

*Former AKC Evaluator for Canine Good Citizen Testing.

*Former ATTS* Tester of the American Temperament Test Society.

*Completed testing and Certified in Cadaver Conditioning.

*Completed a course in Inland SAR Planning - received the National SAR School Graduate Emblem (given to a select group of outstanding professionals in the humanitarian endeavor of saving lives).

*Certificate of Achievement for K9 Patrol and Explosives from Hornell Police Dept.

*Certificate from NASAR for Introduction to Search and Rescue

*She has a certificate in Search and Rescue from the National K-9 School for Dog Trainers in Columbus, Ohio.

*Certificate as a Search Responder from Commonwealth of PA Dept of Conservation and Natural Resources Search & Rescue Training.

*She attended a course at Cornell University for Solving Canine Behavioral Problems.

*PA State Fire Academy Certificate of Training in Wilderness Search & Rescue.

*Certified as a Master Groomer by the National Dog Groomers Association.

*She is certified in Pet First-Aid and Emergency dog care.

*Certification in Major Incident and Terrorism Training from the PA State Fire Academy Terrorism Awareness Center.

Barb's dedication to working with dogs is not just a passion but a way of life that encompasses every aspect of her being. Her commitment to utilizing Assistance Dogs to improve the lives of individuals and uplift communities is truly remarkable. Through her selfless efforts and boundless love for these incredible animals, Barb is a shining example of compassion and hope in a world that sorely needs it. Her impact extends far beyond the training sessions and public appearances - it reaches deep into the hearts of those whose lives have been forever changed by the extraordinary bond between humans and Assistance Dogs. Barb's legacy is not just one of service but of profound transformation and genuine kindness.

Mrs. Bennett's extensive experience and dedication to working with dogs and individuals with special needs make her a valuable asset to the New Hope Assistance Dogs team. With over 25 years of experience in training dogs, she is not only a Co-founder but also the lead trainer of the children's department.  

She is a graduate of Bergin University of Canine Studies in Penngrove, CA. Upon graduation, Ms. Bennett returned home and partnered with her mentor, Mrs. Ruhlman, to establish New Hope Assistance Dogs, Inc., in Warren, PA. Amy grew up living with multiple dogs and as a child visited nursing homes with her pets and learned how pets were able to brighten the lives of people. She bought her first Golden Retriever, Shadow, at the age of 13 and trained him to be a Therapy Dog. Shadow was later certified through Delta Society as a Therapy Dog. Ms. Bennett became part of Animal Assisted Therapy Group, and pioneered a Therapy Dog Program at Jones Memorial Health Center in Jamestown, NY. All of this while still a high school student and training two more Therapy Dogs.

Amy then worked with Mrs. Ruhlman at Indian Ridge Training and Boarding Kennel, learning to train Search and Rescue dogs, and how to teach obedience classes. In a continuing effort to further her education, she attended numerous dog training seminars, classes, shows, demonstrations, and studied dog training, dog breeds, and animal behavior. She has also worked at Oregon Trails Kennel as a kennel worker.

Her hands-on experience with whelping puppies, imprint training, socialization, and advanced Service Dog training showcases her expertise in all aspects of dog training. Amy's dedication to improving the lives of both dogs and individuals with special needs is truly inspiring, and her work at New Hope Assistance Dogs, Inc. is a testament to her passion for making a difference in the world.
 

For as long as Tammy can remember, dogs have been a part of her life. From a young age, she attended AKC dog shows and received training in obedience, conformation, and agility. Around age nine, she began showing dogs in AKC shows. Her dog of choice was an Afghan Hound named Honey. Over the next ten years, she continued to participate in obedience and confirmation events with numerous dogs at AKC and other local shows.

During her teenage years, dog seminars were held with law enforcement officers and others learning search and rescue techniques in the woods and grounds surrounding the training facility. During this time, a full grooming, training, and boarding facility was maintained, where approximately 40 dogs were cared for on a daily basis.

For the next 20 years, she lived in South Carolina where she furthered her travel education and managed a travel agency for 15 years. Despite being away from the area, she continued working with multiple dogs throughout the years.

Upon returning to Pennsylvania, Tammy became involved in the daily activities of New Hope and has held the presidential position since 2010. With a deep affection for Veterans, she was drawn to the veteran area of the program. After years of promoting the idea of matching dogs with veterans, it finally gained acceptance. The positive impact of dogs on veterans with PTSD was already known, and it has been exciting to witness the remarkable changes in recipients once they receive their service dogs.

Tammy is well-versed in both the business aspect and Service Dog side of  New Hope. Holding an Associate Degree in Business Management from Tri-County Technical School in South Carolina, her hands-on kennel operations experience,  as well as certifications in First Aid, CPR, Massage Therapy, Reflexology and Reiki. She also acquired a degree in Travel and Tourism from the Wilma Boyd School of Travel and Business.

Through her love for dogs, Tammy discovered that having a furry companion around meant always having a friend, no matter what the circumstance.

Mrs. Tarr responded to a New Hope advertisement in 2002 seeking a volunteer puppy raiser and eagerly took on the role of raising and training Amber, a charming Golden/Lab cross breed. Immersing herself in New Hope's training classes twice weekly, Cinda quickly proved herself to be a natural with the dogs, assisting trainer Amy with pups facing behavioral challenges. After two years, Amber was successfully placed with a client, but Cinda's dedication to New Hope's mission only grew stronger.

Continuing to attend every available training class, Cinda's passion for learning led her to purchase her own training manuals and pursue independent study. Under the mentorship of Mrs. Bennett, Cinda transitioned into the role of assistant Service Dog Trainer, ready to step in whenever needed. She expanded her skill set by collaborating with Mrs. Ruhlman at Indian Ridge Kennel, becoming proficient in canine care, grooming, and handling various breeds.

Eager to enhance her expertise, Cinda actively sought out seminars and training sessions offered by Service Dog organizations, further honing her abilities in American Temperament Testing and AKC Good Citizen testing. In addition to her work training Service Dogs, she generously volunteers her time at local facilities with New Hope Therapy Dogs and participates in New Hope demonstrations at community events.

Mrs. Tarr's exceptional talent for fostering the bond between client and canine shines in her role of refining and perfecting team cohesion in the program's final stages. Despite her full-time employment at a financial institution, Cinda's dedication to New Hope remains unwavering as she graciously volunteers her evenings and weekends to support the program she holds dear.

Diane is a graduate of Youngsville High School and has an extensive background in animal care. From a young age, she worked at Indian Ridge Kennels & Training Facility, where she gained valuable experience in training and kennel assistance. Her responsibilities included kennel maintenance, leading obedience classes, socializing puppies, and assisting with the 4-H Puppy Love group.

As a teenager, Diane continued her work at the training facility, where she learned to care for animals and assist with the needs of dogs during boarding and training sessions. Her passion for animals is evident in her personal life as well, as she maintains a small "zoo" at home, which includes a bearded dragon, a turtle, a fish, two hamsters, four guinea pigs, a dog, and a cat. 

Diane has been with New Hope Assistance Dogs Inc. for four years, currently serving as Kennel Manager. In addition to her work with animals, she has worked for two years as a dietary server and cook at the Rouse Home. Prior to that, Diane spent 16 years in the shipping and packing department at Blair until its closure. 

Her diverse experience and devotion to animal care make her a valuable asset to our team.

Kaylynn Peyton has over 9 years of extensive experience working with dogs, including training, grooming, and overall care. She has a deep passion for dogs, which began at a young age while growing up with them in her household. Currently, she owns three dogs of her own, showcasing her commitment and love for these animals.

Throughout her career, Kaylynn has worked at various kennels in Maryland and West Virginia, gaining valuable experience with different breeds and handling skills. She has also accumulated over 9 years of pet sitting experience, further honing her skills in animal care.

Kaylynn's dedication to learning and growing in her field is evident through her enrollment in online classes to study dog behavior and body language. Additionally, her background in psychology, specifically Cognitive Behavior, Trauma, and PTSD, demonstrates her desire to help both dogs and their owners on a deeper level.

Upon joining New Hope, Kaylynn knew it was the right fit for her, as it allows her to fulfill her passion for working with dogs while also making a positive impact on those in need. Her drive to provide exceptional care and support shines through in her work, making her a valuable asset to the team.
 

Mrs. Miles a resident of Pittsfield for over 40 years, living here with her husband Bob and raising three children who have now been blessed with four grandchildren. She is a proud graduate of JBC and spent nine fulfilling years working for Casella Waste until 2009. It was during this challenging time that she was diagnosed with spinal stenosis and was also struggling with hearing loss.

Thankfully, through the introduction from her mom, who was best friends with Mrs. Ruhlman for many years, Mrs. Miles was connected with New Hope, an organization that has been a true blessing in her life. She had the pleasure of working with Barb and Tammy, who not only introduced her to the idea of a hearing dog but also offered assistance with her balance issues. This led Mrs. Miles to meet Bruce, a wonderful Lab/ Great Dane mix who quickly became her faithful companion. Bruce helped her in so many ways, alerting her when her husband returned home and providing much-needed companionship.
Though Bruce is no longer with us, Mrs. Miles now has Blue, a trained Australian Shepherd who she affectionately calls her new friend. Blue underwent a year of training in our Prison Program and has since become an invaluable part of Mrs. Miles’ life. He helps her with tasks like alerting to phone calls and doorbells, as well as retrieving items that she may not be able to reach due to spinal stenosis.

To support her furry companions and to give back to the organization that has brought so much light into her life, Mrs. Miles started volunteering at New Hope and the experience has led to becomingthe Secretary of the Board of Directors for NHADI, allowing her to witness the transformation that occurs when new clients are paired with their service dogs. It is truly rewarding to see the positive impact these amazing animals have on individuals, and Mrs. Miles is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this wonderful organization.

Sophie's involvement in our program has been nothing short of extraordinary. She has demonstrated a deep passion and talent for working with dogs and children from a very young age. Her dedication and skills shine through as she assists with various aspects of our program, including teaching puppy raiser training classes, working with clients, training dogs, socializing puppies, and more.

Sophie has also played a crucial role in preparing our dogs for public access by providing a supportive environment in her own home for their training. Her natural understanding and connection with children who have special needs are commendable, making her a valuable asset in interacting, instructing, and connecting with our younger clients.

Sophie's determination to continually improve herself through apprenticeship and skill-building demonstrates her commitment to bringing valuable assistance to our program. We are grateful to have her as part of our team, and her contributions have truly enhanced the work we do.

Mrs. Rowland lives at the New Hope facility. She is passionate about animal welfare and has always had a love for dogs. Her experience working in the health care field as a claims processor for Metropolitan Life Insurance has taught her the importance of caring for others. She applies that same level of compassion and dedication with the dogs at New Hope.

Terry is eager to continue to see the amazing results when individuals come in for team training. She has been grateful for the opportunity to learn from such dedicated and experienced trainers like Mrs. Ruhlman, Mrs. Bennett, and Mrs. Tarr, and is excited to see where her journey with her Service Dog will take her.

In her free time, Terry enjoys spending time with her own dog, playing with puppies and reading up on the latest trends and dog news. She is excited to see a new team form, and the life changing benefits the recipient reaps with the help and unconditional love from their new best friend. 

Katelyn has been involved with our Service Dog training since she was born!  She attended classes in a baby backpack and was great for exposing our dogs to small children.  As she grew, she became more and more interested in doing some handling and training during class.  She rapidly gained the needed skills and became her mom's assistant during training class.  Katelyn could demonstrate a skill while the trainer explained it and also assisted people with handling their dog.
 
She raised and trained multiple puppies to be placed with children as service dogs.  A versatile person, she can train, work with clients, groom dogs, and work in the kennel. Katelyn has a solid foundation of training service dogs, evaluating temperaments, matching dogs with clients, team training during placement of a dog with it's person, an understanding of a variety of physical, mental and emotional needs and more!  Her compassion, energy, leadership skills and ability to work with both the dogs and clients, makes her a very valuable member of our program!
 

With a deep-rooted connection to the New Hope organization, Mrs. Mourer brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role within the team. A graduate of the esteemed Pampered Pet Grooming School in Brentwood, PA, she has honed her skills in grooming and caring for dogs over the years. Mrs. Mourer's work alongside Ms. Ruhlman at Indian Ridge Kennel, where she assisted with the Search and Rescue team, further solidified her passion and expertise in working with dogs.

Despite facing and overcoming the challenges of cancer treatments, Libby remains resilient and dedicated to her work at New Hope. Her role now includes assisting with special events and continuing to expand her knowledge of new Service Dog training techniques. This unwavering commitment to learning and enhancing her skills highlights her determination to make a lasting impact within the organization. Libby's enduring spirit and dedication serve as an inspiration to all those around her at New Hope.