World Dog Surf Champion Sugar Battles Cancer

Sugar, a 16-year-old rescue therapy dog, has won 19 surf titles and was the first animal inducted into the Surfers' Hall of Fame.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Sugar, a five-time World Dog Surf Champion and the first animal inducted into the Surfers' Hall of Fame, is now battling cancer. Sugar's owner, Ryan Rustan, has started a GoFundMe page to help cover the costs of Sugar's vet visits, special food, medicines, and other expenses to keep the 16-year-old rescue therapy dog comfortable.

Why it matters

Sugar's story highlights the special bond between humans and their canine companions, as well as the important work therapy dogs do in supporting veterans and others. As a champion surfer, Sugar has also inspired many and cemented the place of dogs in the world of extreme sports.

The details

Sugar has won 19 surf titles over her career and was inducted into the Surfers' Hall of Fame in 2024, with her paws pressed into the sidewalk alongside other surfing legends. The GoFundMe page has raised over $11,000 so far to help cover Sugar's medical expenses as she battles cancer.

  • Sugar was rescued by owner Ryan Rustan at 7 months old from the streets of Oakland.
  • Sugar was inducted into the Surfers' Hall of Fame in 2024.
  • Sugar's cancer diagnosis and treatment began in 2026.

The players

Sugar

A 16-year-old rescue therapy dog and five-time World Dog Surf Champion, who was the first animal inducted into the Surfers' Hall of Fame.

Ryan Rustan

The owner of Sugar, who has started a GoFundMe page to help cover the costs of Sugar's cancer treatment.

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What they’re saying

“We've been fighting her cancer together — vet visits, special food, medicines, and all the little things I've bought to keep her comfortable and happy on the waves.”

— Ryan Rustan, Sugar's owner (GoFundMe)

“Every donation helps cover what I've already spent and helps me prepare for whatever comes next. Sugar has brought so much joy to so many. If his story has touched your heart, any support means the world.”

— Ryan Rustan, Sugar's owner (GoFundMe)

What’s next

The GoFundMe page will continue to accept donations to help cover Sugar's ongoing medical expenses as she battles cancer.

The takeaway

Sugar's inspiring story as a champion surfer and therapy dog highlights the special bond between humans and their canine companions, as well as the important work therapy dogs do in supporting their communities. Despite her cancer diagnosis, Sugar's story continues to touch the hearts of many.