Rita has been involved with Finnish Lapphunds since attending the Dog Lovers Show and Lappie Picnic in 2016, welcoming her first Lappie Jaska into her home in 2016, followed Biella in 2019. Rita and her Lappies attempt to do dog sports and try to show at dog shows when able. Rita has been heavily involved with the Lappie community for many years. She is currently Vice President.